1
|
Almeida M, Brown TA, Reis YP, Almeida LHR, Billman Miller MG, Denmark K, Lebron JC, Frietchen RE, Carvalho PHBD. Factor structure and measurement invariance of the Body Appreciation Scale - 2 among Brazilian gender-expansive individuals and transgender men. Body Image 2024; 50:101724. [PMID: 38815454 DOI: 10.1016/j.bodyim.2024.101724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2024] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
Among gender-expansive individuals and transgender men, body appreciation can play a protective role against minority stressors and is associated with gender euphoria. The Body Appreciation Scale (BAS-2; Tylka & Wood-Barcalow, 2015) is a leading measure of body appreciation that has been mainly validated in cisgender and mixed-gender samples; however, it has not been validated among Brazilian gender-expansive individuals and transgender men. Therefore, we evaluated the psychometric properties of the BAS-2 among adult Brazilian gender-expansive individuals and transgender men. Participants (158 gender-expansive individuals and 138 transgender men) were recruited through social media in Brazil. Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) supported the original 10-item, unidimensional solution. Multigroup CFA showed configural, metric, and scalar invariance of the BAS-2 between gender-expansive individuals and transgender men. Moreover, the BAS-2 demonstrated significant negative associations, ranging from small to large, with self-objectification, drive for muscularity, and appearance-ideal internalization. We also found good internal consistency and test-retest reliability of the measure. Taken together, our results support the psychometric properties of the BAS-2 among Brazilian gender-expansive individuals and transgender men. The present work offers a valuable contribution towards better understanding facets of positive body image across gender-expansive and transgender populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maurício Almeida
- NICTA, Body Image and Eating Disorders Research Group, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, Governador Valadares, Brazil; AMBULIM, Eating Disorders Program, Institute of Psychiatry, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Tiffany A Brown
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, United States
| | - Yuri Pereira Reis
- NICTA, Body Image and Eating Disorders Research Group, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, Governador Valadares, Brazil
| | | | | | - Kristin Denmark
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, United States
| | - Jorge Castro Lebron
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, United States
| | - Rachel E Frietchen
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, United States
| | - Pedro Henrique Berbert de Carvalho
- NICTA, Body Image and Eating Disorders Research Group, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, Governador Valadares, Brazil; AMBULIM, Eating Disorders Program, Institute of Psychiatry, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Fisher E, Wright S, Sargeant C. What do measures of gender identity tell us about gender identity over time? BRITISH JOURNAL OF DEVELOPMENTAL PSYCHOLOGY 2024. [PMID: 38712516 DOI: 10.1111/bjdp.12491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
Gender identity is a multifaceted concept and is represented by a wide range of measures and constructs including both self-report and researcher observations of preferences and behaviours. However, despite their similar theoretical underpinning, gender identity measures are rarely found to correlate with one another, and contrasting patterns and trajectories are often found for each construct (Egan & Perry, Developmental Psychology, 37, 2001, 451). Therefore, this systematic review aimed to present a review of the longitudinal research evidence surrounding gender identity development in the absence of formal intervention. Using a systematic search strategy, 21 studies were identified. Narrative synthesis was used to synthesize the data collected in these studies and trajectories were explored for (1) self-identification measures of gender identity, (2) clothing preferences, (3) peer preferences, and (4) object/activity preferences. Overall, the results of this systematic review are consistent with wider research suggesting that distinct developmental patterns can be observed when using different constructs and measures of gender identity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ellena Fisher
- School of Psychology, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Sarah Wright
- School of Psychology, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Cora Sargeant
- School of Psychology, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Blacklock CA, Tollit MA, Pace CC, Elphinstone B, Pang KC, Buzwell S. The Gender Euphoria Scale (GES): a protocol for developing and validating a tool to measure gender euphoria in transgender and gender diverse individuals. Front Psychol 2024; 14:1284991. [PMID: 38250121 PMCID: PMC10796755 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1284991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Gender euphoria (i.e., a positive feeling associated with one's gender identity, expression, or affirmation) is widely discussed among transgender and gender diverse (hereafter referred to as trans) individuals. However, as a construct, gender euphoria has never been formally measured and has rarely been empirically studied. Hence, this protocol paper illustrates our process for developing and validating a new tool to measure gender euphoria, known as the Gender Euphoria Scale (GES), for use with trans populations. Methods Deductive methods including findings from previous research and a review of existing measures, together with inductive methods such as expert feedback and focus groups with trans individuals, were used to generate a preliminary item pool for the GES. Pilot testing with trans community members and mental health clinicians was then used to refine items and develop a preliminary scale. Trans participants involved in an ongoing longitudinal study (TRANSform) were invited to complete the scale alongside measures of personality and gender factors to assess validity. Participants were then invited to complete the scale two weeks after initial completion to assess the test-retest reliability of the scale. The next stage in the scale development process will be to examine the dimensionality of the GES using exploratory factor analytic techniques. The scale will then be assessed for internal consistency, temporal stability, discriminant validity, and convergent validity. Conclusion This paper outlines the development and characterization of a novel tool to measure gender euphoria for the first time. The GES will facilitate research opportunities to better understand the nature of gender euphoria and its influences, and may be used clinically to examine relationships between gender euphoria and gender affirming interventions. Hence, we expect the GES to make a significant contribution to both research and clinical practice with trans communities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C. A. Blacklock
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - M. A. Tollit
- Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- The Royal Children’s Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - C. C. Pace
- Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- The Royal Children’s Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - B. Elphinstone
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - K. C. Pang
- Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- The Royal Children’s Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - S. Buzwell
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Baams L, Kaufman TML. Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity/Expression in Adolescent Research: Two Decades in Review. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2023; 60:1004-1019. [PMID: 37307300 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2023.2219245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
There is a long history of research among adolescents who are minoritized and marginalized for their sexual orientation and gender identity/expression (SOGIE). However, it remains unclear how we can best conceptualize and assess SOGIE in adolescence, resulting in different subpopulations and findings across studies. Addressing this issue, we present a narrative literature review of the conceptualization and assessment of SOGIE, and provide recommendations for conceptualizing and operationalizing these concepts. Our review indicated that most research with adolescent populations still almost exclusively assesses isolated dimensions of sexuality and gender (e.g., attraction but not identity). We argue that to make research inclusive and equitable, scholars are required to make clear substantiated decisions and be transparent about the SOGIE dimensions and, thus, subpopulations they represent.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Baams
- Department of Pedagogy and Educational Sciences, University of Groningen
| | | |
Collapse
|
5
|
Ussher JM, Power R, Allison K, Sperring S, Parton C, Perz J, Davies C, Cook T, Hawkey AJ, Robinson KH, Hickey M, Anazodo A, Ellis C. Reinforcing or Disrupting Gender Affirmation: The Impact of Cancer on Transgender Embodiment and Identity. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2023; 52:901-920. [PMID: 36689129 PMCID: PMC10101894 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-023-02530-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
There is a pressing need for greater understanding and focus on cancer survivorship and informal cancer caring of trans people (binary and non-binary), across tumor types, to inform culturally safe trans inclusive cancer information and care. This qualitative study, part of the mixed methods Out with Cancer project, examined experiences of trans embodiment and identity after cancer diagnosis and treatment. We drew on open-ended survey responses from 63 trans cancer survivors and 23 trans cancer carers, as well as interviews and a photo-elicitation activity with a subset of 22 participants (15 cancer survivors, 7 cancer carers). Reflexive thematic analysis identified three themes: Cancer enhances trans embodiment, through experiences of gender euphoria following cancer treatment, and acceleration of decisions about gender affirmation; cancer erases or inhibits gender affirmation; trans embodiment is invisible or pathologized in cancer care. These findings demonstrate that trans embodiment and identity, as well as the process of gender affirmation, may be disrupted by cancer or informal cancer caring. Conversely, cancer and cancer treatment can positively impact the embodied identity and lives of trans people, despite the anxiety and strain of negotiating medical procedures. However, if healthcare professionals operate within a cis-heteronormative framework and do not understand the meaning of embodied change following cancer treatment for trans individuals, these positive benefits may not be realized.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jane M Ussher
- Translational Health Research Institute, School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Locked Bag 1797, Penrith, Sydney, NSW, 2752, Australia.
| | - Rosalie Power
- Translational Health Research Institute, School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Locked Bag 1797, Penrith, Sydney, NSW, 2752, Australia
| | - Kimberley Allison
- Translational Health Research Institute, School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Locked Bag 1797, Penrith, Sydney, NSW, 2752, Australia
| | - Samantha Sperring
- Translational Health Research Institute, School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Locked Bag 1797, Penrith, Sydney, NSW, 2752, Australia
| | - Chloe Parton
- School of Health, Te Herenga Waka - Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Janette Perz
- Translational Health Research Institute, School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Locked Bag 1797, Penrith, Sydney, NSW, 2752, Australia
| | - Cristyn Davies
- Specialty of Child and Adolescent Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, Sydney, Australia
- School of Social Sciences, Western Sydney University, Penrith, Sydney, Australia
| | - Teddy Cook
- TransHub, ACON, Surry Hills, Sydney, Australia
| | - Alexandra J Hawkey
- Translational Health Research Institute, School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Locked Bag 1797, Penrith, Sydney, NSW, 2752, Australia
| | - Kerry H Robinson
- School of Social Sciences and Translational Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Martha Hickey
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne and the Royal Women's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Antoinette Anazodo
- Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital and School of Women's and Children's, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Colin Ellis
- Translational Health Research Institute, School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Locked Bag 1797, Penrith, Sydney, NSW, 2752, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Ervin J, Scovelle A, Churchill B, Maheen H, King T. Gender identity and sexual orientation: a glossary. J Epidemiol Community Health 2023; 77:344-348. [PMID: 36805941 DOI: 10.1136/jech-2022-220009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2022] [Accepted: 02/05/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023]
Abstract
Gender and sexually diverse populations remain understudied and under-represented in research. This is attributable not only to significant and ongoing data collection limitations, where large population-based studies fail to ask adequate questions around gender and sexuality, but also due to continuously evolving terminology in this space. This glossary takes a preliminary step in rectifying these issues by defining and clarifying the application and understanding of key terms related to gender, gender identity, expression and sexuality. In doing so, this glossary provides a point of reference for understanding key differences in gender and sexually diverse terminology to (1) help guide researchers and practitioners in the use and understanding of terms and (2) facilitate the utility of more respectful, inclusive and consistent language application across the public health arena.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Ervin
- Centre for Health Equity, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Anna Scovelle
- Centre for Health Equity, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Brendan Churchill
- School of Social and Political Sciences, Faculty of Arts, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Humaira Maheen
- Centre for Health Equity, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Tania King
- Centre for Health Equity, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Harrop EN, Hecht HK, Harner V, Call J, Holloway BT. "How Do I Exist in This Body…That's Outside of the Norm?" Trans and Nonbinary Experiences of Conformity, Coping, and Connection in Atypical Anorexia. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:1156. [PMID: 36673911 PMCID: PMC9859328 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20021156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Addressing eating disorders (EDs) within trans and nonbinary (TNB) populations is a growing concern, as TNB individuals are two to four times more likely to experience EDs than cisgender women. This study explored the lived experiences of TNB people with atypical anorexia by examining how gender identity impacted experiences of ED illness and (potential) recovery. Nine TNB adults with atypical anorexia were followed for one year and completed semi-structured, in-depth, longitudinal qualitative interviews at baseline, 6 months, and 12 months. Interviews were coded using Braun and Clark's thematic analysis procedures. Four themes, along with subthemes, emerged regarding the intersection of gender identity and ED experiences: (1) Conforming, (2) Coping, (3) Connecting, and (4) Critiquing. In Conforming, participants highlighted how societal pressures around gender contributed to ED vulnerability. In Coping, participants explained that their EDs represented attempts to cope with the overlapping influences of body dissatisfaction, gender dysphoria, and body disconnection. In Connecting, participants described ED recovery as a process of connecting to self, others, and communities that welcomed and affirmed their diverse identities. In Critiquing, participants described how current ED treatment settings were often unwelcoming of or unprepared for non-cisgender patients. Overall, participants viewed their EDs as intricately linked to their gender identity and experiences of social pressure and discrimination. This study suggests the need for targeted ED prevention and intervention efforts within TNB communities, and the ethical imperative to meaningfully address the needs of TNB patients in ED treatment settings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Erin N. Harrop
- Graduate School of Social Work, University of Denver, Denver, CO 80208, USA
| | - Hillary K. Hecht
- Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Vern Harner
- Harborview Injury Prevention & Research Center, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98104, USA
- School of Social Work and Criminal Justice, University of Washington Tacoma, Tacoma, WA 98402, USA
| | - Jarrod Call
- School of Social Work and Criminal Justice, University of Washington Tacoma, Tacoma, WA 98402, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
8
|
Transgender identity: Development, management and affirmation. Curr Opin Psychol 2022; 48:101467. [PMID: 36219930 DOI: 10.1016/j.copsyc.2022.101467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2022] [Revised: 09/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
In this review, I discuss recent research on transgender identity development, management and affirmation, situating key topics within a social feedback model of transgender identity. This model foregrounds the dynamic interplay between internal and external influences on transgender identity. Furthermore, issues of intersectionality are highlighted throughout and located within broader socio-political contexts. Collectively, research on topics such as gender euphoria, passing, identity affirmation and social transitions, among others, points to the pivotal role of supportive social relationships and social environments in the healthy development and expression of transgender identities. Future work should prioritize longitudinal studies with careful and rigorous assessment of identity-related constructs in order to further examine these and other topics.
Collapse
|
9
|
Schudson ZC, Morgenroth T. Non-binary gender/sex identities. Curr Opin Psychol 2022; 48:101499. [PMID: 36401906 DOI: 10.1016/j.copsyc.2022.101499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Revised: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
An increasing number of individuals openly identify as non-binary (i.e., not exclusively female or male). Accordingly, psychological research on non-binary identities has expanded rapidly. We review key insights from this growing literature, first examining work that has demonstrated links between beliefs about the true nature of gender and/or sex (gender/sex) and feelings toward non-binary people. We also review research on non-binary people's self-concepts, which has shown the inadequacy of binary-focused gender/sex measurement practices for effectively studying non-binary people's lives and has suggested treating gender/sex as multidimensional. Then, we consider scholarship on non-binary people's wellbeing, including work exploring sources of joy and pleasure in non-binary people's lives (e.g., gender euphoria). Finally, we discuss recent advances in gender-inclusive theories and methods.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zach C Schudson
- Department of Psychology, California State University, Sacramento, CA, USA.
| | | |
Collapse
|