Parental figure reactions and coping strategies to anti-trans bans on youth

Abreu, R. L., Sostre, J. P., Gonzalez, K. A., Lockett, G. M., & Matsuno, E. (2022). “I am afraid for those kids who might find death preferable”: Parental figures’ reactions and coping strategies to bans on gender affirming care for transgender and gender diverse youth. Psychology of Sexual Orientation and Gender Diversity, 9(4), 500– 510. https://doi.org/10.1037/sgd0000495

Research has documented that parental figures of trans and gender diverse (TGD) youth often struggle with fear, grief, and stress as a result of anti-transgender oppression. However, there is a dearth of research about how parental figures of TGD youth are impacted by anti-transgender state and federal laws and bills. The present study aimed to explore parental figures’ reactions and coping strategies with recent proposed and enacted laws and bills in the United States restricting access to gender-affirming healthcare for TGD youth. A sample of 138 parental figures of TGD youth who currently or previously lived in the United States participated in an online survey where they shared their reactions and coping strategies as a result of current anti-transgender laws and bills. Thematic analysis revealed four themes depicting participants' cognitive reactions, including: (a) violation of rights, (b) increased stigma, (c) decreased quality of healthcare, and (d) support for the child’s journey. Also, three themes emerged about participants’ emotional reactions, including: (a) fear and anxiety, (b) anger, and (c) relief. Additionally, participants shared narratives about how they are coping with these anti-transgender laws and bills, including: (a) activism and advocacy, (b) educating others, (c) seeking support from communities/groups, and (d) relocation and avoidance. Recommendations for practitioners, such as debunking incorrect information about trans healthcare when working with parental figures, are discussed.