Examining the caregiver-child dynamic on youth disclosure of transgender identity

Wood, Debbie and Hodge, Suzanne and Sellwood, Bill and Moon, Igi (2021) Examining the caregiver-child dynamic on youth disclosure of transgender identity. PhD thesis, Lancaster University.

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Abstract

This thesis examines the subject of parent-child dynamic when a young person discloses that they are transgender to their parents, or alternative caregiver, and forms the beginning of a project which has the long term aim of designing an intervention to help smooth what can be a bumpy road for all concerned. Chapter one comprises a metasynthesis which gives voice to transgender youth on their perceptions of caregiver reaction when they have disclosed their transgender identity. This includes parents, foster parents and homeless shelter staff. Four key messages result along with a message of hope where that reaction is not a positive one. Chapter two describes a grounded theory study resulting in a burgeoning model of family dynamics as children consider and then make their disclosure. A four stage model is suggested but such was the richness of the data that the chapter is restricted to the first two stages of pre-disclosure contemplation by both children and parents followed by the disclosure and its’ sequelae as both parties react to one another. Finally, chapter three reviews both articles and considers both their individual and joint contributions to the subject of this thesis. Initial thoughts about an intervention and next steps in the development of the model are considered, methodological concerns are discussed and finally the author reflects on the influence of bias and their learning from the exercise.