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Interpersonal Victimization and Post-Traumatic Stress Among Transgender and Gender Expansive People: A Systematic
Angie Wagner1, Athena D F Sherman2, Sarah Febres-Cordero2
1School of Nursing, University of Minnesota, Weaver Densford Hall, 308 SE Harvard St., Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA.
Summary
Transgender and gender expansive (TGE) individuals face high rates of interpersonal victimization, significantly linked to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This review synthesizes research on TGE victimization and PTSD, highlighting the need for targeted interventions and further study.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Public Health
- Sociology
Background:
- Transgender and gender expansive (TGE) individuals experience disproportionately high rates of interpersonal victimization.
- This victimization is strongly associated with a high prevalence of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), a significant mental health concern within this population.
- Existing research on the link between victimization and PTSD among TGE people is under-studied, necessitating a comprehensive review.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and synthesize the existing peer-reviewed literature on the association between interpersonal victimization and PTSD among TGE individuals.
- To critically appraise the quality and findings of studies examining this relationship.
- To identify gaps in the literature and provide recommendations for future research and intervention development.
Main Methods:
- A systematic literature search was conducted across five major databases (PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, PsycInfo, CINAHL) adhering to PRISMA guidelines.
- Inclusion criteria focused on peer-reviewed, English-language original research reporting TGE-specific data on victimization and PTSD. Exclusion criteria removed non-original research and studies lacking TGE-specific findings.
- Data extraction and quality appraisal were performed by independent reviewers, with data stratified by gender identity, race/ethnicity, and violence type for comprehensive synthesis.
Main Results:
- Twenty-five studies were evaluated, revealing a consistent association between multiple forms of interpersonal violence (including childhood maltreatment, sexual violence, intimate partner violence, and TGE-specific victimization) and PTSD symptoms or diagnosis.
- Childhood sexual abuse demonstrated a significant link with PTSD outcomes, underscoring early life vulnerability.
- Study samples were predominantly White and adult, with limited exploration of intersectional experiences related to race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status.
Conclusions:
- The high rates of PTSD among TGE populations linked to interpersonal violence indicate a systemic issue rooted in structural discrimination, not merely individual risk factors.
- Multilevel prevention and intervention strategies are crucial to address these inequities.
- Future research should employ longitudinal designs, culturally responsive measures, and intersectional analyses to better inform prevention, clinical care, and policy, particularly for diverse TGE populations.
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