My friend does drag. Does he want to be a woman?

Dear Gender Confused,

The fact that your guy friend wants to do drag most likely has nothing to do with him wanting to become a woman.

Gay men do drag for fun and entertainment. They dress in elaborate outfits and exaggerate feminine characteristics and stereotypes.

I’ve heard some do it because they get more attention from men. One young gay man told me he did drag because he is sexy, confident, and popular in a dress. However, when out of frock, he’s called ugly and pathetic.

If your friend wanted to be a woman he would be considered transgendered or trans-identified. That is, he would think that he really should have been a she.

Studies differ, but it is estimated that up to 10% of the population is gay, lesbian, or bisexual, while only one in 10,000 individuals are thought to be transgendered.

Whether your friend wants to do drag or become a woman, it shouldn’t be anything for you to be concerned over. Be the most supportive friend you can to them.

And, I wouldn’t doubt that (s)he could give you some pretty wicked beauty tips.

Best regards,