“Testing the Waters” in a “World That Refuses to Make Space: Development and Coming Out with Transgender and Non-Binary Adults

ABSTRACT

Transgender and gender non-binary (TGNB) adults face structural and interpersonal stigma from their families and society at large when living openly and seeking gender affirming healthcare. To better understand the significance of family and social contexts for shaping the lived experiences of TGNB adults, this phenomenological qualitative study aimed to describe TGNB transgender identity development and coming out processes inclusive of significant past and present experiences. TGNB participants (N = 17) completed a one-time semi-structured interview and member checking of analysis findings. Results identified two themes: 1) TGNB identity development and socially “testing the waters” in gender expression; and 2) coming out when “the world just refuses to make space.” Implications are made for advancing feminist systemic research and clinical practice with TGNB clients.

KEYWORDS:

• Transgender
• nonbinary
• gender identity development
• coming out
• family

Disclosure statement

We have no known conflict of interest to disclose. This study was unfunded.