jiggyt35
Aug 3, 2012 0:49:42 GMT -6
Post by jiggyt35 on Aug 3, 2012 0:49:42 GMT -6
So this is the first time I can remember that I've ever rp'ed as a male character, and (as I'm a girl) it can feel a little awkward at times. I feel like I can't make a convincing post because I have never been a boy before! It's not just the frame of mind that the character is in, but it's the physical body too, I feel like I just don't know what to do in a guy's body. I find myself making Niko do things that I would do, and then second guessing myself.
Does any one have any tips for me and everyone else who tackles a character of the opposite gender? Does any one else feel the same way?
Aug 3, 2012 1:03:34 GMT -6
Post by A Long Display Name Here on Aug 3, 2012 1:03:34 GMT -6
Firstly, I think you're referring to physical sex. Sex and gender are two different things! Sex = physical, gender = personal identification. That is why there are transgender, transsexual, and non-binary people: because gender identity is how you feel, not what genitals you have.
"Knowing what to do in a guy's body" is, inherently, no different from a "girl's" body. The biology might be a little different for a CIS male (a person whose given sex and personal gender identity are both 'male'), so you likely wouldn't be talking about a period or anything of the sort, but there are no activities that are strictly "boy" or "girl".
I think the most important thing to realise when playing a character of a different sex or gender than yourself is that it is okay to do what you think is in character for them, even if it is not a stereotypical behaviour for that sex/gender. If you think "Niko" would think a dress is very pretty and silky soft, that is okay! There is nothing wrong with that. If "Niko" is more stereotypically "male", that is okay too! Remember, personality isn't dictated by what genitals you do or do not have between your legs. :]
jiggyt35
Aug 3, 2012 19:21:52 GMT -6
Post by jiggyt35 on Aug 3, 2012 19:21:52 GMT -6
hm... very informative, Kami! I had never really thought about the difference between sex and gender, most people just use them interchangeably. I use to think that playing off of sexual attraction was something you'd do strictly in a romance thread, but years of experience being a teenager myself has made me see that our actions in almost every situation are influenced by the traits we may find appealing in the other person. I guess that's just human nature, and what everyone strives for is to let their characters be human.
And I really like what you said Airi, "follow with words where his eyes lead." Very helpful!
