Transvestitism is also known as Transvestic Fetishism and is a psychiatric condition that falls under the category of paraphilias or a group of persistent sexual patterns that are required for full sexual satisfaction . Although mild forms of these conditions have probably occurred in the lives of many normal individuals, a paraphilic person is distinguished by the existence and relative exclusivity with which his or her sexuality focuses on the acts or objects in question, without which orgasm is often impossible.

The achievement of sexual arousal and satisfaction by cross dressing, that is dressing as a member of the opposite sex is called Transvestitism. Typically, the onset of transvestism is during adolescence and involves masturbation while wearing female clothing or undergarments. Blanchard has termed the psychological motivation of transvestites ‘autogynephilia’ or the paraphilic arousal by the thought of fantasy of being a woman. Magnus Hirschfield, sexologist, first identified a class of cross dressing men who are sexually aroused by the image of themselves as women. They feel attracted by not only the women outside them, but by the woman inside them.

Some male transvestic fetishists collect female clothing such as undergarments, nightgowns, babydolls, slips and other types of nightwear and lingerie including pantyhose, stockings and garter belts. They may dress in these women’s clothing and take photographs of themselves. Such individuals try to keep their fantasies very discreet. Research indicates that most transvestic fetishists are heterosexual, although there are no studies that accurately represent either their sexual orientation or gender.

Causes of Transvestitism:

The aim of transvestic fetishists is to obtain sexual gratification and satisfaction by cross dressing. One of the most prominent causes for this may be adolescent curiosity. An individual with this disorder may begin by dressing up in the clothes of his elder sister or mother which fascinate him. The activity may be continued because it appears to be enjoyable and may remain in the unconscious.

Treatment of Transvestitism:

Transvestic fetishists were often treated with aversion behavior therapy, usually with electric shocks, which proved highly unsuccessful. Another form of therapy known as behavior orientation was used to help these individuals respond sexually to culturally appropriate stimuli, but had limited success. Most individuals with this disorder do not seek treatment from experts and are capable of achieving sexual gratification in socially acceptable situations. The preoccupation with cross dressing is harmless to other individuals as this disorder is not associated with any criminal offense.