Transgender Parents and Their Adult Children's Experiences of Disclosure and Transition

Abstract

Little is known about transgender families, their children, and how they negotiate parental gender transition (PGT) and associated stressors. Thus, this study addressed this gap using a qualitative research design based on Family Stress Theory to explore how transgender parents and their adult children experience transition. Specifically, this study examined the ways in which they perceived transition, experienced stressors related to transition, and made use of resources, as well as their experiences of their overall family functioning and changes in their parent-child relationship. Findings suggest that parents and adult children appear to experience similar levels of stress related to PGT. However, the types of stresses they experience are different. In terms of resources, both parents and children appeared to benefit from therapy. However, both groups also highlighted ways that it could be improved. Support groups were also found to be an important coping resource for parents and one that adult children pointed to being a helpful resource they were lacking. Findings from this study indicate that the majority of parents and adult children experienced positive or no changes in their parent-child relationship after transition. Implications for research and practice are discussed.

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