PSYCHO-SOCIAL PROBLEMS FACED BY AGED TRANSGENDER IN THE PUNJAB- PAKISTAN

Abstract

Transgender people are observed marginalized and socially excluded at the Global level. Particularly, aged transgender people faced the bleak condition to spend their life. In Pakistani context, most of the aged transgender people are attached dancing, singing, begging and sex work profession for the
livelihood. The present study was conducted to explore the Psycho-social problems faced by Aged transgender in the Punjab- Pakistan. Sample of (n=9) transgender people was selected through the snowball sampling to conduct this study. Case study techniques were used collection of information
which is the type of qualitative method. Data was analyzed by the thematic approach. The results showed that Physical Heath: their physical health started to narrow down with their age. Disability: Most of them faced disabilities at this age because of malnutrition and lack of caretaker services. Financial barriers to health care: They had financial issues and thus were unable to consult for medication. Fear of accessing health service: The feared accessing the ‘limited’ access they had because of the ambiguity of interaction. Lifetime Victimization: They are even more victimized now as their demand in their work is diminished. Marginalization and Social Exclusion: With the low level of interaction, they are marginalized by some of their own community members and socially excluded from the ‘little’ interaction they had with the society in general. Problems of Homelessness: With the increasing financial crisis, they lack the means to own or even rent a home. Psychological Distress: Loneliness and embarrassment makes them go through low self-esteem, thus creating psychological distress. Discrimination in the Workplace: Since they are not ‘young’ anymore, on top that they are transgender, it becomes even harder for them to find work. Ageism also discriminates them. In a nutshell, aged transgender people are facing discrimination and marginalization in Pakistan. The
study suggested that there should be established rehabilitation center for the transgender people to uplift their life.