THE OUTCOMES OF PROPER ENDORSEMENT OF CROSS-DRESSING IN SELECTED GRADE 11 HUMANITIES AND SOCIAL SCIENCES STUDENTS AT BESTLINK COLLEGE OF THE PHILIPPINES

Abstract

This chapter emphasizes the importance of promoting acceptance of cross-dressing in educational settings, with a particular focus on Bestlink College. It highlights how fostering an inclusive environment can boost students’ self-confidence, reduce social anxiety, and enhance overall well-being. These benefits are contextualized within the framework of the Safe Spaces Act, which advocates for respect and protection of individual expression. The chapter also reviews relevant literature on the interplay between fashion and social interaction among cross-dressers, grounded in Social Identity Theory. Additionally, it defines the study’s scope and significance for students, educators, and policymakers; identifies the challenges faced by cross-dressing students; and proposes inclusive strategies to support a safer and more accepting school environment. The study employs an Exploratory Descriptive-Quantitative Research Design to assess the perceptions of 133 selected Grade 11 Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS) students regarding cross-dressing. To ensure balanced representation, a Quota Sampling Technique was used. Data were collected through a validated survey questionnaire structured into three key sections: social dynamics, endorsement effects, and challenges associated with cross-dressing. A Likert Scale was applied to measure student responses, while statistical tools such as frequency, percentage, and mean were utilized to analyze and interpret the data effectively. The study explores cross-dressing perceptions among Grade 11 students, revealing that social dynamics significantly influence levels of acceptance. While endorsement effects indicate increased self-confidence among cross-dressing students, the findings also highlight persistent challenges such as discrimination and social stigma. Through statistical analysis—using frequency, percentage, and mean—the survey results reflect mixed opinions among respondents. Overall, the findings underscore the need for inclusive strategies to create a more supportive school environment. The study strongly advocates for the implementation of the Safe Spaces Act within the educational setting to ensure protection and acceptance for all students. The study highlights that Grade 11 students generally agree on the positive aspects of properly endorsing cross-dressing, recognizing its potential to boost self-confidence and support personal exploration through fashion. However, students also reported experiencing challenges such as non-acceptance, ignorance, and inequity from their peers. These findings reflect a complex social environment where both support and stigma coexist.