Gender is not what you see : Transgender people's experiences of identity, health and well-being- An interview study

Abstract: Background: In India transgender people have a legacy of representation and acceptance dating back thousands of years within the Hindu religion. However, studies show that transgender people in today’s indian society experience lack of social rights and are discriminated towards when it comes to employment, housing and healthcare. Being discriminated based on who you are may in turn lead to poor physical and mental health. The healthcare services ability to promote health and give good care to transgender patients is limited due to stigma and lack of knowledge in meeting the needs that transgender people may have when seeking healthcare. Aim: The aim of this study is to examine the experience of identity, health and well-being among transgender people in India. Method: A qualitative semi-structured interview study with five participants was made, four of the interviews were used in the result. The participants were interviewed about their experiences of health and well-being as well as the availability and treatment from the healthcare system. The content was analyzed through a content analysis. Results: The result was divided into Identity and Society where the theme Identity contained 1. Life-stance related reflection about gender identity. 2. Life-stance related reflections about own body. 3. Strategies to protect one’s dignity and 4. The meaning of relationships and social networks for one’s own identity. The theme Society dealt with the sub-themes 1. Experiences of attitudes among healthcare professionals and 2. Experiences of discrimination outside healthcare. Discussion: The discussion was held from a life-stance point of view and touched upon how discrimination and lack of knowledge within the healthcare services can lead to not being seen as a person. Violation of dignity was also discussed and how dignity is connected to integrity and self-image as well as how confidence and self-esteem is important in forming one’s identity.