A phenomenological exploration of the gender transition experience: findings to improve culturally competent nursing care and decrease health disparities
Research Report:
Research SummaryAPA Citation:
Lewis, S., Carter, H., Jones, S., Mason, S. M., Spurlock, A., Lennen, N., & Pines, E. (2023). A phenomenological exploration of the gender transition experience: Findings to improve culturally competent nursing care and decrease health disparities. Contemporary Nurse, 59(4-5), 402-412. https://doi.org/10.1080/10376178.2023.2262063
Abstract Created by REACH:
This qualitative study examined the transition experiences of 11 transgender women in various stages of transitioning from male to female. Participants, 7 of whom had military experience, were interviewed about their overall transition experience in order to inform the provision of more culturally competent healthcare services for transgender individuals. 4 themes emerged, demonstrating the complexity of the gender transition experience.
Focus:
Veterans
Mental health
Branch of Service:
Multiple branches
Military Affiliation:
Veteran
Subject Affiliation:
Veteran
Civilian
Population:
Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Young adulthood (18 - 29 yrs)
Thirties (30 - 39 yrs)
Middle age (40 - 64 yrs)
Methodology:
Qualitative Study
Authors:
Lewis, Stephanie, Carter, Holly, Jones, Stacey, Mason, Shawna M., Spurlock, Amy, Lennen, Noreen, Pines, Eula
Abstract:
Most recently, it has been reported that 1.4 million adults in the United States identify as transgender. This number is double what was reported just five years earlier. What little research has been completed on this vulnerable population indicates that people who identify as transgender experience higher rates of depression, suicide, and social stigmatization than the cisgender population. Stigmatization of transgender people and lack of access to quality care is often the root for these disparities. Very few studies have examined the experience of transition. Objective: The purpose of this phenomenological study was to explore the experience of transitioning from one gender to another. Methods: Non-structured, in-depth interviews were conducted via an online platform with 11 male-to-female transgender adults who gave their informed consent to participate. Results: Through a process of group data analysis, four major themes emerged: (a) Everybody Saw the Mask; (b) A Turning Point; (c) Shedding My Skin; and (d) Navigating the Way. Conclusions: These findings can heighten healthcare personnel’s sensitivity to this vulnerable population, as well as guide students and providers to provide culturally appropriate care, which can lead to a decrease in health disparities.
Publisher/Sponsoring Organization:
Routledge
Publication Type:
Article
REACH Publication
Keywords:
transgender, LBGT, transition experience, phenomenology, cultural competence, world
REACH Publication Type:
Research Summary
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