2017/05/22 by Lisa F. Platt, Kayla S. Bolland · 1 citation
Psychology · Social Sciences · #LGBTQ Health, Identity, and Policy #Sexuality, Behavior, and Technology #Gender, Feminism, and Media
paper · doi:10.1177/0265407517709360
Relationship partners of transgender-identified individuals have distinctive couple-related experiences that are important to understand. The current qualitative study explored the unique elements of the experiences of those who partner with transgender-identified individuals. A sample of 21 participants who were partnered with a transgender person completed a 1-hr, semi-structured interview. The data yielded five important themes: (1) considerations with physical, sexual, and emotional intimacy; (2) changing sexual orientation labels; (3) safety concerns; (4) marginalization and feelings of isolation; and (5) new appreciation for the gender spectrum. The results show that partners experience considerable change in their lives and relationships as a transgender partner transitions. Implications for future research and how to provide support for this often-overlooked population are provided.