Professor Asked Me for an interview

[Laurel B]

I don't post as much as I should, but some might remember that I had a presentation to give to a grad class that I was taking last month (went good 25 out of 25). Well, I have been going to class cd all semester except the first day. I was helping the professor with timing the presentations of the last groups and she passes me a note asking if she could see me at the end of class, I said yes. So when everyone leaves and we go back to her office and she hands me an article that she had published. She has been doing a study on homophobia and gender expression and asked if she could interview me for the study. I told her I'd get back to her. What do you all think?

[erintemp]

I say do it, what could it hurt, jmo.

[TxKimberly]

I think the idea is awesome and cant really imagine a drawback. Go for it . . .

[FurPus63]

Yes! I wish I were you! I'm a psychology counselor and would love to be interviewed for a study. I want to write a book on all of this someday. Keep me posted. Please.

Paulette

[Danni Renee]

I say do it as well today. But to protect yourself, you should ask her what the purpose of the interview is (what is she trying to do with the information she is getting from you). Also, you may want to ask her to not use your name or to use a false name when refering to you if she writes about you, not to hide but to protect your privacy.

[t-girlxsophie]

Yeah do it,a chance for you to aid the Professor,and help with ppl's understanding at the same time

Sophie

[Ashley_Marie]

While I would say definitely do it. I would also say be careful. If there is a friend or family member that doesn't know yet and they read his study they will instantly find out.

[Tina B.]

Professors generally don't use the name of their subjects when writing up studies such as this, so since you are out in class, what do you have to lose, and you might be able to help a study that turns out to be important, I would do it, and I'm not out.
Tina B.

[Cynthia Anne]

I think Danni Renee is right unless you are like me and don't give a hoot anymore! So do it and have fun! Hugs!

[bridget thronton]

If this is legimate research the professor will have had the procedures approved by the human subjects review board and you will be given an informed consent form to sign. You will be told what is being done to ensure your privacy.

[vikki2020]

Absolutely. For one, you can help "the cause", with some valid info, and, it just might be beneficial to you too. Consider it a free therapy session!

[Jenny Doolittle]

Oh Yes. Do it. Any time we can get the truth out about what it is to be CD or Trans is a good thing. The Jerry Springer's of the world have had way to much impact about the topic.

And, if you find through the questions that she asks it is not going to be fair to the topic you can then stop the interview.

[Barbara Ella]

Take all the precautions mentioned here, and by all means participate. Providing honest information about the CD community and personal feelings is the best method of removing stigma.

Babes

[Annaliese]

What is there to think about, the guide lines for this type of study are vary strict she can not use you name. You are in a grad class and will be doing study of your own soon and she will be a great resource. Plus you have found someone that could be a friend and be vary supportive.

[docrobbysherry]

I'd think it thru first, Laurel! Do the, "What's the worst that could happen"?, test!

On the left side of a sheet of paper, list everything GOOD for u that mite come from doing the survey. On the rite, all the BAD. By the time I finish one of these, I ALWAYS know which is best for me! Regardless, of which side has more listed on it!

[tracigirl_tv]

Laurel, as long as you are comfortable with the situation, I agree with the girls on this thread who have encouraged you to accept the professor's invitation.

Hope you keep us posted :)

hugs,

Traci

[Marleena]

Laurel I say go for it too! You have been CDing at your classes already, and I'm sure people realize you are okay. I'm sure they have questions. Your professor is probably intrigued by it too.:) Just find out beforehand if it will put a positive spin on things.

[Pythos]

Definitely do it, but be sure to use a name nobody outside the community will recognize. I think this is really cool that you have been able to CD all semester, and not face any administrative action.

[*Vanessa*]

Sure, pull the pin and sit on it... What's the worst that can happen.. Na just kidding.
Sounds like the acid test is done, so I say do it. Stand up and wave the good flag.. Report later, please.

[Acastina]

Go for it. You have an opportunity to raise consciousness in others. I'd love to provide input to a study of homophobia and gender expression.

The more good light shines in our direction, the less we have to linger in darkness or seek out the shadows...

[Laurel B]

Thank You all for the insight. I think, no I know I am going to do it. To answer some questions. She has only asked as of right now and I said I needed to think and would get back to her. She already has written some articles about homophobia and gender roles (expressions). She gave me a copy of the last article that was published in October 2011. She stated that more needs to be done to help people, specifically 10-16 year-olds. I hope to be able help in any way I can. I will report back.

[SarahLynn]

To not do this is to do a disservice to the community. Do not just be truthfull in your answers point her to this forum that she may choose to contact others here who would also aid in her research.

SarahLynn

BTW: I would answer her questions if she asked me.

[Vanessa Storrs]

There is no reason not to do it. Precious little research has been done regarding trans gendered people and you can help to bring a greater understanding of us.

[Tara D. Rose]

It's really a chance of a life time. Use it to the advantage of Tg people. I'd jump at the chance to be interviewed like this.

L&R.....Tara

[Ash Leland]

Oh my god, what an opportunity....I'd jump on it 8D

[gabimartini]

Sounds interesting, why not?

[kristinacd55]

Very cool Laurel, I'd say go for it. Like others said, just make sure on the privacy thing.

[Debutante]

Yes, do it.......... I find it best to help out academics and professionals doing studies about gender identity and expression... it educates and biulds positive relationships

[donnalee]

As you are already out (at least to the professor) it can't do any harm and might do some good. Go for it!

[tiffanyjo89]

I say do it as well today. But to protect yourself, you should ask her what the purpose of the interview is (what is she trying to do with the information she is getting from you). Also, you may want to ask her to not use your name or to use a false name when referring to you if she writes about you, not to hide but to protect your privacy.

Quoted for emphasis...find out what the full intent is, and make sure you have it in a contractual form that she use a false name (in a similar manner to how many Dear Abby letters print names as "Sarah"...notice the quotes, it implies a real identity without giving the persons real name) letting people know that it is a real person she talked to, but a person who is in a situation that revealing their real name would result in [potentially] unneeded and unwanted harassment in the future.

[suchacutie]

I agree with the post that discussed the consent form. If this is legitimate research with humans, it will have had to pass through the Human Subjects Committee. Every college/university must have one. So, agree to the interview, but at the start if there is not a consent form, ask if the research has been approved by the HSC. If not, I would suggest that the interview be postponed until it is. Anonymity is required unless it is for the popular press, and even then you must give your consent to use your personal information.

tina

[DanaR]

I would ask her what the interview is for, then do whatever you feel comfortable with. I'm sure it would be fine, but it doesn't hurt to ask first. It sounds like she is fairly interested in this and it might be kind of fun to see where she is at or what interests her in this subject.

[Meg East]

Sure do it if you are comfortable with her subject.