SUPPORT ACROSS CONTEXTS: AN EXPLORATORY STUDY OF SUPPORT FOR TRANSGENDER YOUTH

Abstract

This study explores the support received by transgender individuals across several domains, with the aim to further understand the experiences of transgender individuals. Nine transgender individuals, between the ages of 18 and 25, completed an online survey where they provided their own definition of support and shared how that support was received across five domains: family, peers, romantic relationships, schools, and healthcare. Participant responses included specific examples of support and noted key people and events. Through thematic analysis, support for participants was: (1) accepting, (2) responsive, (3) individually specific, and (4) apparent. Participants reported relatively high levels of support across all study domains. The highest rates of support, both as self-defined and in general, came from peers and romantic partners, and the lowest levels of support being reported for school and healthcare settings. This study provided the opportunity for transgender individuals to share their own experiences of support to contribute to the conversation and literature surrounding transgender individuals. Study findings reiterate the importance of support for transgender individuals for their overall well-being and adjustment and can be used to support ongoing discourse around programmatic and policy efforts aimed at transgender individuals. All protocols were approved by the University of Arizona IRB.