Transvestism means cross-dressing. It is known to be common among heterosexual males however; cases where females were involved are also reported. An example is the case of Billy Tipton, a successful jazz musician in the 1930’s. Tipton had been married and had adopted three sons. When he died in 1980, the funeral director discovered that he was biologically, a woman.

Although transvestism and transexualism are known to be similar there is a significant difference. Transsexuals wish to change their genitals and live as members of the opposite sex. They do not experience sexual arousal when cross dressing. On the other hand, transvestites continue to identify themselves as members of their biological gender, while cross dressing.

Compared to non transvestites, the transvestites are more inhibited in their interpersonal relationships, less involved with other individuals and more independent. They seek less sympathy, love and help from others.

Some clinicians firmly believe this condition is a result of disturbed parent-child relationships. Others believe is an aberrant psychosexual development. Behaviorists on the contrary believe that, it is a conditioned response that is susceptible to aversion therapy.

Either way, research reports suggest that many transvestic fetishists live their life without seeking therapeutic help. As a result, these people often become subjected to social prejudice and discrimination. On the contrary, those people who seek therapeutic help, in most cases, discontinue therapy after a while without proceeding towards suggested alternatives or surgical procedures.

A fine example of social implications on transvestism can be drawn from India. In India, transvestics are called Hijjras and the general public believes that they bring both good and bad omens. They live a different life style than any given individual and are being looked on upon differently by the society – for the simple fact of being transvestite.