Family Support and Post-gender Reassignment in Transgender Individuals: A Phenomenological Study

Objective: Despite growing recognition of transgender identities, the role of family support in the lives of transsexual individuals post-gender reassignment surgery remains understudied. This study addresses this gap by exploring how familial support influences well-being, social integration, and personal growth in transgender individuals. Methods: Using a descriptive phenomenological approach, semi-structured interviews were conducted with ۱۲ transsexual individuals (۵ female-to-male [FTM], ۷ male-to-female [MTF]) in Isfahan City, Iran, selected via snowball sampling until theoretical saturation. Data were analyzed using Colaizzi’s ۷-step method to identify thematic patterns.  Results: Analysis revealed ۱۱ subcategories grouped into four core themes: (۱) hope for life (e.g. renewed motivation for education, self-acceptance), (۲) enhanced physical and mental health (e.g. reduced anxiety, improved self-esteem), (۳) healthy social participation (e.g. stronger relationships, resilience to stigma), and (۴) improved family dynamics (e.g. reduced conflict, mutual respect). Participants emphasized that family support was pivotal in mitigating psychological distress and fostering post-surgery adjustment.  Conclusion: The findings underscore the transformative potential of family acceptance, highlighting its role in promoting psychological well-being, social adaptation, and familial harmony among transsexual individuals. This study contributes to the broader discourse on transgender health by advocating for targeted family education programs. However, the transferability of findings may be limited by the study’s focus on a supportive Iranian sample.

Keywords:

Family support , Transgender , Gender reassignment surgery , Mental health