Gender euphoria reimagined: toward an Extended Theory of Trans-Identity.

Introduction: The paper focuses on developing an Extended Theory of Trans-Identity integrating Nagoshi et al.'s trans-identity theory with the creative expression of the self to explore gender-euphoric experiences. Method: Having explored Austin et al.'s research on the artistic expression of trans people, the article attempts to explore the creative manifestation of identity as an important aspect of trans-identity formation, alongside Nagoshi et al.'s trans-identity theory. The synthesis of four aspects, including physical embodiment, self-construction, social construction, and the creative manifestation of the identified gender leading to the attainment of gender-euphoric factors identified by Austin et al. and Leitch et al., culminates in an Extended Theory of Trans-Identity. The theoretical framework is applied to Results: The results indicate that identity construction through the creative aspect, in combination with the biopsychosocial aspects, contributes to the utmost attainment of gender euphoria. Discussion: Therefore, the article formulates an extended version of the trans-identity framework, emphasising the inclusion of creativity in the gender-affirmative journeys of trans people.