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Grief, Loss, and Identity: A Phenomenological Study of Transgender Experiences During Transition

  • University of Nevada, Reno
  • Saybrook University

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Grief related to transitioning among transgender individuals is underexplored, with literature primarily focusing on grief experienced by family members or partners or external losses transgender individuals face. This study addresses the gap, exploring the grief experienced by 14 transgender people during transition. Six themes emerged: (a) Navigating Shame and Oppression, (b) Intangible Grief and Loss, (c) Spectrum of Emotions and Coping Strategies, (d) Loss of Relationships, (e) Navigating Others’ Grief, and (f) Advocacy as a Response to Grief and Oppression. Findings emphasize the need for counselors to validate the unique grief experiences of transgender clients. Recommendations for counselors are provided.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)302-320
Number of pages19
JournalJournal of LGBTQ Issues in Counseling
Volume19
Issue number3
DOIs
StatePublished - Jul 3 2025

UN SDGs

This output contributes to the following UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

  1. SDG 3 - Good Health and Well-being
    SDG 3 Good Health and Well-being

Scopus Subject Areas

  • Gender Studies
  • Clinical Psychology
  • Applied Psychology
  • Psychiatry and Mental health

Keywords

  • Transgender
  • grief
  • identity
  • loss
  • phenomenology

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