Author ORCID Identifier
Date of Graduation
2023
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Type
PhD
College
School of Nursing
Committee Chair
Roger Carpenter
Committee Member
Suzy Walter
Committee Member
Brad Phillips
Committee Member
Jodi Conrad
Abstract
Background: Transgender adults experience disrespect, rejection, and discrimination. This is further complicated by the incongruence and internal conflict stemming from pressure to conform to a binary system of gender. Studies describing the experiences of transgender adults are limited. Therefore, the concept coexisting between the assigned and identified self was developed to better understand how transgender adults acknowledge turmoil and marginalization in coming to embrace identity.
Purpose: The purpose of this study was twofold: (1) describe the experiences of transgender adults living in WV, and (2) gather empirical evidence about the concept coexisting between the assigned and identified self. The question guiding this descriptive qualitative study was “How do transgender adults describe the experience of living in West Virginia?”
Method: The study used directed content analysis guided by the core qualities of coexisting between the assigned and identified self: acknowledging turmoil, acknowledging marginalization, and embracing identity. Eleven participants were recruited from online support groups, where recorded, semi-structured interviews were used to gather their stories. The stories were transcribed verbatim, reconstructed, and confirmed via member checks. Data analysis included multiple stages using meaning units, condensed meaning units, subthemes, and themes.
Results: Eight themes were derived from predetermined categories within the concept. Acknowledging turmoil is feeling a disconnect between the assigned and identified self, navigating self-discovery and pressure to conform, and facing internal challenges of coming out and transitioning. Acknowledging marginalization is encountering disaffirming microaggressions and discrimination, prioritizing safety and privacy, and feeling isolated from family and community. Embracing identity is living the authentic self and engaging with a supportive community as well as visualizing a future and acting as an advocate for change.
Conclusions: Findings from the study were congruent with previous literature about turmoil, marginalization, and identity. Findings were also coherent with theoretical and conceptual frameworks and grounded in the discipline of nursing. Implications for future research, practice, and policy include measures to support transgender adults as they embrace identity. Additional studies are needed to further explore the concept coexisting between the assigned and identified self for its use in more diverse populations.
Recommended Citation
Drabish, Kerry M., "Experiences of Transgender Adults Living in West Virginia" (2023). Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Problem Reports. 11954.
https://researchrepository.wvu.edu/etd/11954