Developing a sexual identity is a challenging developmental task. It becomes more so for youth who discover that they have to reconcile their biological sex with a different gender expression. Because Western societies presume only two genders, male and female, "transgender" individuals violate societal gender role expectations when expressing characteristics associated with the other gender. Transgender individuals are people whose life experience does not easily fit a sexual dimorphic model of gender. The group is composed of several subgroups, among which include transsexuals, cross-dressers, and gender benders/blenders. Because they violate conventional gender expectations, transgender people are often seen as sexual deviants, and become victims of societal ignorance, prejudice and discrimination. Thus, they are a marginalized, vulnerable population who experiences relatively more health and psychosocial problems comparable to other social groups. This study presents some findings of a qualitative study that explored factors affecting the lives of youth (aged 15 to 21) who either identify as transgender, describe their gender expression as atypical, or are questioning their gender assignment. Using five focus groups, the study probed issues related to transgender youths' experiences in childhood and adolescence, particularly those related to their early understanding of their gender identity; their vulnerability, e.g., exposure to risks of harassment, differential treatment, social rejection, marginalization, and lack of access to health resources; and their approaches to coping, e.g., coping mechanisms, types of support, health and mental health resources used. Implications for understanding the psychosocial status and physical health needs of transgender youth will be presented.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the presentation, the participant should be able to: 1) identify the developmental challenges faced by transgender youth; 2) recognize the vulnerability of transgender youth and associated physical health and psychosocial problems; 4) describe transgender youths' approaches to coping with risks, discrimination and marginalization; and 5) derive implications for understanding the health needs of transgender youth
Keywords: Youth, Gender
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.