Considerations for Culturally Sensitive Research With Transgender Adults

A Qualitative Analysis

Bibliographic Data

ID10209752
AuthorsJennifer M Staples (0000-0001-5518-1847, University of Washington), Elizabeth R Bird (0000-0002-9309-8451, University of Washington, corresponding author), Tatiana Masters (University of Washington), Tatiana N Masters (University of Washington), William H George (0000-0002-4426-3166, University of Washington)
Year2017
Volume55
Issue8
Pages1065-1076
Publication date2017-03-03
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessNo
TypeARTICLE
VenueThe Journal of Sex Research (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 0022-4499 • E-ISSN: 1559-8519
PublisherTaylor & Francis (PUBLISHER • GB)
DOI10.1080/00224499.2017.1292419
PMID28276930
OpenAlexW2592629378
LanguageEN
Citations received12
References cited39

Transgender (trans) individuals have historically been left out of research, and previous work has often conflated gender identity with sexual orientation. Furthermore, language used in psychology measures is often heteronormative and uses binary gendered language (e.g., "him"/"her"). The aim of the current study was to provide empirically derived guidance on conducting culturally sensitive research with transgender participants using qualitative data. We recruited trans individuals, ages 18 to 44, to participate in an anonymous, qualitative, national online survey as part of a quantitative study on the relationships among minority stress, sexual behavior, and mental health. The qualitative portion included four open-ended feedback questions. We identified four overarching themes regarding experiences with our survey: (a) emotional reaction; (b) insight gained; (c) being outside the box; and (d) value of the work. Research with trans adults should be more inclusive of diverse gender identities, sexual identities, and sexual behaviors. Steps in this direction may include soliciting feedback from community members regarding survey language and response options, allowing participants to contextualize their responses using open-ended questions, and clarifying language to distinguish between sexual behavior and sexual identity. A list of seven preliminary guidelines was proposed to aid scientists in conducting culturally sensitive research with trans individuals

Developmental psychology · Human sexuality · Identity (music · Mental health · Minority stress · Psychotherapist · Qualitative property · Qualitative research · Sexual identity · Sexual minority · Sexual orientation · Sociology · Transgender · Gender Studies · LGBTQ Health, Identity, and Policy · Psychology · Racial and Ethnic Identity Research · Social and Intergroup Psychology · Social Psychology

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