Meanings and Experiences of Being Transgender: A Qualitative Study among Transgender Youth

In: Qualitative report: an online journal dedicated to qualitative research and critical inquiry

Abstract

Our aim in this qualitative study was to explore the meaning and experiences of transgender youth in their everyday interactions. Participants included 24 transgender youth from Yazd and Isfahan Cities (Iran). We selected participants through purposeful sampling method. Research data were collected through semi-structured interviews. The interview transcripts were analyzed using theoretical coding techniques. The results showed that transgender people like to present their favorite identity in behaviors, wearing and social appearances, their social and domestic acceptance is deferred as the society defines transgender as a taboo and ostracizes persons. They felt themselves in a converse body and under pressure for coexistence by peers and neighbors. They attempt to save their desired identity through daydreaming and performing identity role in solitude.