What defines Transvestic Disorder?

Transvestic Disorder is characterized by recurrent and intense sexual arousal from cross-dressing, which distinguishes it from other disorders that might involve arousal from different stimuli or activities. In this case, the focus on cross-dressing signifies an individual finding pleasure and excitement specifically in wearing clothing typically associated with the opposite gender. For a diagnosis of Transvestic Disorder, this behavior must lead to clinically significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning. The other options listed refer to different types of paraphilic disorders; for instance, arousal from the suffering of others aligns more with Sexual Sadism Disorder, while arousal from prepubescent children pertains to Pedophilic Disorder. In contrast, the arousal from specific body parts is characteristic of Partialism. Therefore, the defining feature of Transvestic Disorder centers explicitly on the act of cross-dressing as a source of sexual arousal.