i think you are right about "playing a role". youll see lots of talk between trans about learning stuff...so, yeah, like playing a part.

ive seen socialuzation heing said & a lot of that comes from seeing how eady it is for teens to transition virtually seemlessly, where older ones struggle. then saying its because of socialization. they werent socialized when young thus missed out, thus have a hard time passing.

but imo its all about how one sees ones self. most in my opinion that have trouble see themselves as " a male trying to be female" or " a female trying to be male".

the really successful ones??? its their identity is female or male .

like you say, innate & that innareness gives one an internal aura or vibe that people pickup intuitively. thats the difference between "passing at first glance " ( which is all of 7 seconds) , but being clocked with prolonged interaction.

dont need anyone to tell you how to be more masculine ( or feminine). if you are you a dude, everyone picks up on that ( or if your mtf same thing). you may not look it until some time has passed on hrt, but eventually one will & then theres no question.

those that struggle dont get the " male trying to be female or female tring to be male, vs. being female or male.