Ethnographies

As a research method invested in critically understanding social relationships in a range of geographic contexts, ethnographies provide one [Page 240]productive avenue into the nuances of trans and other gender-diverse experiences around the world. The term ethnographies describes not only the qualitative research methodology, which involves semistructured interviews and participant observation, but also the written products that result from said research. As texts, trans ethnographies have proven foundational to the development of trans studies as a field. This entry provides context for the significance of trans ethnographies, including a brief historical overview, and reflects on the primary concerns, questions, and future directions of trans ethnographies.