title: Trans individuals' facilitative coping: An analysis of internal and external processes.
abstract: Existing research on trans individuals has primarily focused on their negative experiences and has disproportionately examined coming-out processes and identity development stages. Using a grounded theory approach, this qualitative study sought to examine facilitative coping processes among trans-identified individuals. Facilitative coping was operationalized as processes whereby individuals seek social support, learn new skills, change behaviors to positively adapt, and find alternative means to seek personal growth and acceptance. The sample included 15 participants who self-identified with a gender identity that was different from their assigned sex at birth. Results yielded a total of nine overarching themes: Accepting Support from Others, Actions to Increase Protection, Active Engagement Throughout the Transition Process, Actively Seeking Social Interactions, Engaging in Exploration, Internal Processes Leading to Self-Acceptance, Self-Efficacy, Shifts Leading to Embracing Change and Flexibility, and Utilization of Agency. Based on the analysis, a theoretical model emerged that highlighted the importance of internal and external coping processes in facilitating gender identity development and navigating stressors among trans individuals. Clinical implications focusing on how to implement facilitative coping processes are discussed. (PsycINFO Database Record
authors.affiliation: Department of Counseling Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Madison.
authors.forename: Stephanie L
authors.initials: SL
authors.lastname: Budge
authors.affiliation: Department of Counseling Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Madison.
authors.forename: Mun Yuk
authors.initials: MY
authors.lastname: Chin
authors.affiliation: Department of Counseling Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Madison.
authors.forename: Laura P
authors.initials: LP
authors.lastname: Minero
mesh_terms: D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D005260:Female; D005783:Gender Identity; D006801:Humans; D007206:Individuality; D007389:Internal-External Control; D007406:Interview, Psychological; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D036301:Qualitative Research; D012944:Social Support; D063106:Transgender Persons / Q000523:psychology*; D055815:Young Adult