Quote Originally Posted by ReineD View Post
I agree that Blanchard missed the boat entirely, since he doesn't seem to consider the very reason TSs do seek gender reassignment: basic gender dysphoria.
But there is a question begging to be answered. If TSs are just gender dysphoric then why did Blanchard find AGP among the TS sample group? Blanchard can be criticized for the narrowness of his conclusion but he did reveal that AGP is a factor across the whole TG spectrum. It does indicate that when gender identity is shifted then is invariably consequences for the sexual drive.


when the issue is more about mending relationships that have deteriorated because of the AGP.
I think it is fair to point out that AGP is rarely an issue at the beginning of a relationship because the attraction to the partner exceeds the AGP. Usually there is a tipping point several years in after the initial exuberance of romantic love subsides.

I also would imagine that AGP is usually more pronounced in relationships where the CD is still in the closet or where the SO is unaccepting which results in the CD focusing more of his sexual energy into AGP. I mentioned in another thread that spending years in the closet usually results in a CD building a large catalog of powerful fantasies based around AGP scenarios. This can be a major stumbling block to a mutually satisfying sex life.

Even when the CD is out of the closet with an accepting SO, the deeply personal (shameful) nature of an AGP affected sex drive means that secret remains in the closet even though the physical manifestation of the dressing is out.

It seems to me that many people having been using Blanchard's easily criticized thesis as a scapegoat to downplay AGP so as not to admit to this thorniest of TG issues.