A systematic review and qualitative research synthesis of the lived experiences and coping of transgender and gender diverse youth 18 years or younger

• Background: Research on the daily experiences of transgender and gender diverse (TGD) youth 18 years or younger is limited, making it essential to gain a comprehensive understanding of their internal and external experiences related to gender identity.Aim: This systematic review and qualitative research synthesis fills this research gap by examining the lived experiences and coping of TGD youth, including prepubertal children.Methods: The review was pre-registered according to PROSPERO on the Open Science Framework and followed the ENTREQ reporting guidelines. A Qualitative research synthesis, according to Howell Major and Savin-Baden, was conducted.Results: Seventeen peer-reviewed articles published between 2000 and 2023 fulfilled inclusion criteria and quality assessment. Synthesized themes were: (1) “Navigating gender identity”, with two sub-themes, Meaning-making and Considering visibility (2) “Navigating relations”, with four sub-themes: Longing for belonging, Supportive actions, Lack of safety and Coping inside out (3) “Navigating society with two sub-themes Inclusion and exclusion and Beyond control. Our findings demonstrate that TGD youth view gender identity as fluid and benefit from a supportive environment that facilitates genuine exploration. Coping strategies develop intricately, influenced by multifaceted factors.Discussion: Unlike previous research on the negative effects of minority stress, our review underscores the cumulative impact of subtle daily stressors on TGD youth’s well-being, highlighting the significance of an environment where gender is not a constant concern. By shedding light on these dynamics, this synthesis contributes to a comprehensive understanding of TGD youth’s perspectives for professionals and a broader audience.

Ämnesord

SAMHÄLLSVETENSKAP  -- Annan samhällsvetenskap -- Genusstudier (hsv//swe)

SOCIAL SCIENCES  -- Other Social Sciences -- Gender Studies (hsv//eng)

SAMHÄLLSVETENSKAP  -- Psykologi (hsv//swe)

SOCIAL SCIENCES  -- Psychology (hsv//eng)

SAMHÄLLSVETENSKAP  -- Sociologi -- Socialt arbete (hsv//swe)

SOCIAL SCIENCES  -- Sociology -- Social Work (hsv//eng)

Nyckelord

children and youth

gender identity

gender diverse

qualitative

systematic review

transgender

Psychology

Psykologi

Psychology

Publikations- och innehållstyp

ref (ämneskategori)

for (ämneskategori)