Relationship partners of transgender individuals: A qualitative exploration

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 partici...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of social and personal relationships 2018-10, Vol.35 (9), p.1251-1272
Main Authors: Platt, Lisa F., Bolland, Kayla S.
Format: Article
Language:English
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Summary: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.
ISSN:0265-4075
1460-3608
DOI:10.1177/0265407517709360