This work has not been peer reviewed by the University of the Philippines Rainbow Research Hub or its project members. The views expressed are solely those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect those of the Hub or its project members.
2026 Philippine Queer Studies Conference
POSTER PRESENTATION
From dysphoria to ginhawa: Centering gender euphoria among transgender and gender nonconforming Filipinos
Adrian Jay C. Alforque
Within a predominantly cis-heteronormative world, transgender and gender nonconforming (TGNC) persons grapple with a multitude of challenges as a marginalized minority. Research on TGNC experiences has historically emphasized dysphoria and deficit-based models of mental health, often pathologizing trans experiences and reinforcing stigma against TGNC people. In contrast, gender euphoria has emerged from trans communities to capture the joy, affirmation, and well-being that arise from embodying one’s gender identity. However, gender euphoria remains underrepresented in psychological literature and is often overlooked in clinical settings that provide mental health support for TGNC individuals. This disproportionate reality is reflected locally despite efforts made to document the experiences of TGNC Filipinos in various contexts. This presentation provides a literature review with the objectives of a) synthesizing current definitions and accounts of gender euphoria, b) summarizing its documented connection to psychological well-being, c) critically examining methodological trends and limitations, and d) exploring how indigenous Filipino concepts enrich our understanding of TGNC experiences. By endeavoring to frame gender euphoria as a counter-narrative to pathology-based models and situating it within the Filipino TGNC experience, this presentation seeks to advance affirming and culturally grounded approaches that can inform trans-affirmative psychotherapy and healthcare practices in the Philippines.
