Transgender and gender nonconforming (TGNC) individuals face significant social stigma and discrimination, which can negatively impact their quality of life (QOL) and mental health (James et al., 2016; Rodriguez-Madera et al., 2021). Studies have shown that TGNC individuals have higher rates of depression, anxiety, and suicide compared to cisgender individuals, and perceived stigma has been identified as a significant risk factor for these negative mental health outcomes (Bockting et al., 2013; Testa et al., 2017).
This study used a cross-sectional survey design to examine the relationship between perceived stigma and QOL among TGNC adults in Puerto Rico (Rodriguez-Madera et al., 2021). The study recruited 255 TGNC adults who completed an online survey that included measures of perceived stigma and QOL. The survey also collected data on demographic characteristics, such as age, gender identity, and sexual orientation. The study used descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression analyses to examine the relationship between perceived stigma and QOL, controlling for demographic variables.
The results of the study showed that perceived stigma was significantly associated with lower QOL among TGNC adults in Puerto Rico (Rodriguez-Madera et al., 2021). Specifically, higher levels of perceived stigma were associated with lower scores on measures of physical health, psychological health, social relationships, and environment. The study also found that gender identity and sexual orientation were significant predictors of QOL, with transgender women and those who identified as queer or pansexual reporting lower QOL compared to other gender and sexual orientation groups.
The study’s findings highlight the negative impact of perceived stigma on the QOL of TGNC individuals in Puerto Rico (Rodriguez-Madera et al., 2021). The study’s results suggest that interventions aimed at reducing stigma and discrimination against TGNC individuals could be effective in promoting QOL and improving mental health outcomes. Such interventions could include public education campaigns, training programs for healthcare providers and other professionals, and policies that promote the inclusion and acceptance of TGNC individuals in society. The study’s results also highlight the need for healthcare providers to be aware of the impact of perceived stigma on the QOL of TGNC patients and to provide appropriate support and resources to promote their well-being.
In conclusion, the study by Rodriguez-Madera et al. (2021) found that perceived stigma was significantly associated with lower QOL among TGNC adults in Puerto Rico. The study’s results underscore the negative impact of social stigma and discrimination on the well-being of TGNC individuals and highlight the need for interventions aimed at reducing stigma and promoting acceptance and inclusion. The study’s findings have important implications for healthcare providers and policymakers, emphasizing the need to provide support and resources to promote the well-being of TGNC individuals.
References Sited in the article:
Bockting, W. O., Miner, M. H., Swinburne Romine, R. E., Hamilton, A., & Coleman, E. (2013). Stigma, mental health, and resilience in an online sample of the US transgender population. American journal of public health, 103(5), 943-951.
James, S. E., Herman, J. L., Rankin, S., Keisling, M., Mottet, L., & Anafi, M. (2016). The report of the 2015 US transgender survey. National Center for Transgender Equality.
Testa, R. J., Michaels, M. S., Bliss, W., Rogers, M. L., Balsam, K. F., & Joiner Jr, T. (2017). Suicidal ideation and behaviors among transgender persons with a history of homelessness. LGBT health
Title of the article: “Perceived Stigma and Quality of Life Among Transgender and Gender Nonconforming Adults in Puerto Rico”
Authors: Rodriguez-Madera et al.
Year of publication: 2021
Name of the journal: Journal of Gay & Lesbian Mental Health