Cognitive and interpersonal identity processes related to mid-life gender transitioning in transgender women

This research explored identity processes related to mid-life gender transitioning in 13 trans women (assigned male at birth), ages 44-67 years, who lived in the Midwestern United States. Participants completed a semi-structured qualitative interview with questions about transgender identity development and experiences of gender transitioning. Interview transcripts were analyzed using grounded theory methodology. Themes representing cognitive and interpersonal processes differed in salience throughout the gender transitioning process: cognitive processes were more salient earlier and later in the transition, whereas interpersonal experiences were more salient in the middle of transitioning. Results from this study can inform counseling practice by improving cultural competency in counselors through increasing knowledge about how trans women form their gender identities and experience gender transitioning.