Lived Experience of Sexual Assault Among Gender Diverse Individuals

Sexual assault is typically understood through a heteronormative and cis-normative lens whereby victims are females and perpetrators are males. This minimizes the experiences of gender diverse individuals who are sexually assaulted. Yet, these individuals have experienced high rates of stigma, discrimination, and violent victimization (inclusive of sexual assault) based on their gender identity and gender expression. Gender minorities are more likely than heterosexual and cis-gender individuals to experience sexual violence. This research explored the experiences of gender diverse individuals who were sexually assaulted. Descriptive phenomenology was used to explore the experiences of sexual assault among individuals who identify as gender diverse. Purposive sampling was used to recruit 18 gender diverse individuals who participated in face-to-face or virtual interviews. Interviews were recorded, transcribed verbatim, and thematically analyzed in NVIVO. The findings revealed four themes and one sub-theme, including: (1) Vulnerability, Isolation, Alienation, Rejection, and Power, (2) Blurred Lines, Coercion, Compliance, and Consent, (3) Disclosure of Sexual Assault (sub-theme of Police Reporting), and (4) Support and Acceptance. The firsthand accounts of gender diverse individuals who were sexually assaulted reflect the unique experiences of sexual victimization for individuals whose gender identity differs from the gender they were assigned at birth. The participants in this research identified the vulnerability associated with the gender diverse identity, which created opportunities for perpetrators of sexual assault to take advantage of them. They also highlighted the coercive nature of sexual assault in existing relationships and the complexity of sexual assault disclosure to formal support providers. Participants highlighted the importance of safe spaces and support from within the queer community. A better understanding of the experiences and needs of gender-diverse individuals who have been sexually assaulted may influence targeted support, inclusive education, and formal support providers' ability to respond empathically to their unique needs.