Communicating Transgender Identity

Abstract

This chapter surveys theory and research on transgender identity and disclosures. Historically, transgender people in Western societies represent a highly stigmatized population who are likely to encounter significant communication challenges. Interpersonally, transgender people often grapple with privacy and disclosure, especially in regards to when, where, how, and with whom to disclose their gender identity, as they risk rejection from friends and family and experiencing violence. Thus, insofar as transgender individuals find that conversations about their sexuality and/or gender identity are proscribed by society and carry the threat of stigmatizing or violent personal and interpersonal outcomes, discussion of transgender identity can be seen as a taboo topic. In light of that, this chapter surveys theory and research on transgender identity and disclosures.