Because of this unsatisfactory state of things an attempt has been made to collect data from a large number of transvestites by means of questionaires. The results provide an entirely different outlook on the problem. I may say to begin with that I am aware of the short- comings of questionaires, both as to how carefully they are set up and how good the memory and honesty of the respondents is. I realize that various criticisms can be leveled against this means of obtaining information, it was used and I believe the results to be very indicative of the need to revaluate the etiology, diagnosis and pro- gnosis of this behaviour pattern.

There were 272 questionarires returned. Of these only. 33% showed any history of any of the orthodox "causes" referred to above. Moreover, only 51% indicated a first experience below the age of 10, while 37% placed it between 10 and 18 teen and a surprising (by orthodox. standards) 9% occurred after the age of eighteen. The existence of such a percentage of late starters should stir some interest in what it is that provides the stimu- lus and satisfactions of transvestism. It will immedia- tely be claimed by some that it is purely and erotic and fetishistic matter. While it is obvious that erotic aspects are present, especially in the early years, this should not be allowed to obscure the fact tht there are other and deeper satisfaction than just a temporary erotic release. One indication of this, is the fact that the replies turned up a considerable number of individuals in the age range of 60 to 83 who were still active in their cross dressing even though they were at that stage of life when erotic activities are greatly lessened or absent. There are, therefore, other satisfactions to be investigated. No attempt is made to deny the sexual aspects of the matter, they are there almost as a matter of definition since anything having to do with the fe- male has some degree of sexual significance and relat- ionship to a male. But there is such a great tendency to deal with the obvious" that other important and even essential aspects of a problem are often overlooked. It took mankind several thousands years to develop a Copernicus who could see past the obvious fact that the sun went around the earth from east to west and on to the real truth of matter.

80.