Understanding sexual violence experiences of transgender and gender diverse people: an interpretative phenomenological study

Transgender and gender diverse (TGD) people represent a small percent of the population and yet, they experience sexual violence (SV) at disproportionately high rates compared to their cisgender counterparts. Little is known about how SV relates to TGD people's gender identity and their ability to engage in posttraumatic growth (PTG). The purpose of the present study is to gain a nuanced understanding of the role that SV plays in the lives of TGD people. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight TGD participants, and an interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) revealed two superordinate (i.e. negative impacts of SV on self and factors that facilitated recovery from SV) and twelve subordinate (i.e. systemic oppression, mental health outcomes, gender dysphoria and transitioning, difficulties with disclosure, lack of resources, physical intimacy, advocacy, connection and support, strengths, posttraumatic growth, affirming resources, and hope) themes. Implications for practice include the use of gender-affirming interventions; understanding the potential interplay between gender dysphoria, oppression, and trauma; and exploration of strengths and avenues for growth. Directions for future research include the use of diverse samples and a mixed-method approach to studying this topic.