Disclosure Experiences for Transgender and Nonbinary Survivors of Intimate Partner Violence

Area of Science:

• Sociology
• Gender Studies
• Psychology

Background:

• Transgender individuals report high rates of intimate partner violence (IPV).
• Societal IPV narratives are often gendered and heteronormative, potentially marginalizing transgender survivors.
• Disclosure of abuse can be hindered by societal perceptions and lack of understanding.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the barriers transgender survivors encounter when disclosing IPV.
• To understand the strategies transgender survivors use to overcome these disclosure barriers.
• To explore the role of intersecting identities in shaping these experiences.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study utilizing in-depth interviews.
• Participant pool consisted of nine transgender survivors of intimate partner violence.
• Thematic analysis was employed to interpret interview data.

Main Results:

• Experiences of IPV were deeply intertwined with participants' gender identity.
• External and internalized transphobia acted as significant barriers to disclosure.
• Transgender-affirming support emerged as a key facilitator in overcoming barriers.
• The impact of barriers and aids varied based on intersecting identities (e.g., gender, ability).

Conclusions:

• Societal transphobia creates substantial obstacles for transgender IPV survivors seeking help.
• Support systems must be gender-affirming and sensitive to the unique needs of transgender survivors.
• Further research is needed to address the complex interplay of IPV, gender identity, and support access.