In recent years, there has been a growing awareness of the unique challenges faced by transgender individuals, particularly in the realm of mental health. Among the many issues faced by transgender women, shame is often a pervasive and complex emotion that can have far-reaching impacts on mental health, relationships, and sense of self-worth. Transgender individuals experience higher levels of shame and self-blame than cisgender individuals, which can be linked to societal stigma, discrimination, and internalized transphobia. In this article, we will explore the prevalence and impacts of shame among transgender women, as well as strategies for coping with shame and building resilience. We will also discuss the importance of increased understanding and support for transgender individuals, and the role that individuals and society can play in reducing stigma and discrimination.
The Experience of Shame Among Transgender Women
Personal accounts of shame among transgender women reveal a complex and nuanced experience. One individual, writing for GenderGP (a healthcare organization that provides gender-affirming care), described feeling shame related to her body, identity, and past experiences. She wrote, “I felt shame about my body, my voice, my appearance, and my identity as a trans woman. I felt shame about my past, my history, and my choices. I felt shame about my own feelings and my own desires.” Similarly, in an interview with NPR, a young transgender woman described feeling “a lot of shame” when coming out to her family, and feeling like her identity was something that was “wrong” and “had to be hidden.”
These personal accounts reflect a broader trend of shame among transgender women. Research has found that transgender individuals experience higher rates of shame and internalized transphobia than cisgender individuals (Riggle et al., 2016). In a study published in the Journal of LGBT Issues in Counseling, researchers found that transgender individuals reported significantly higher levels of shame and self-blame than cisgender individuals (Koken et al., 2009). Another study, published in the International Journal of Transgenderism, found that transgender individuals who experienced more discrimination and violence also reported higher levels of shame and internalized transphobia (Nuttbrock et al., 2010).
Contributing Factors to Shame Among Transgender Women
There are a variety of societal and personal factors that can contribute to the experience of shame among transgender women. Societal factors include the lack of representation of transgender individuals in media and limited legal protections for transgender rights. The American Psychological Association (APA) notes that discrimination against transgender individuals is widespread, and can include discrimination in employment, housing, healthcare, and other areas of life (APA, 2015). This discrimination can contribute to a sense of shame and self-blame, as transgender individuals may internalize messages that their identity is “wrong” or “deviant.”
Personal factors that contribute to shame among transgender women can include internalized transphobia and negative self-talk. Internalized transphobia is a phenomenon in which individuals who are part of a marginalized group (in this case, transgender individuals) may internalize negative messages about their group and begin to believe that their identity is something to be ashamed of (APA, 2015). Negative self-talk can include thoughts like “I’m not good enough” or “I don’t deserve to be happy,” which can contribute to feelings of shame and low self-esteem.
Impacts of Shame on Transgender Women and Transfeminine Folx
The impacts of shame on transgender women can be far-reaching and can impact mental health, relationships, and sense of self-worth. In terms of mental health, shame has been linked to increased symptoms of depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions (Tangney & Dearing, 2002). Shame can also impact self-esteem and self-worth, as individuals who experience shame may feel like they are not deserving of love or respect. Shame can also impact relationships, as individuals who feel ashamed may withdraw from social interactions or feel like they are not able to form meaningful connections with others.
Coping Strategies for Trans Women Experiencing Shame
Coping with shame can be a challenging and multifaceted process. There are several strategies that may be helpful for individuals who experience shame, including self-compassion and seeking support. Self-compassion involves treating oneself with kindness, understanding, and acceptance and can be particularly helpful for individuals who face societal stigma and discrimination (Neff, 2003). Self-compassion has been linked to positive mental health outcomes, including decreased anxiety and depression (Neff, Hsieh, & Dejitterat, 2005).
Seeking support from trusted friends, family members, or mental health professionals can also be an effective way to cope with shame. A supportive network can provide a sense of validation and understanding, which can help counteract feelings of shame and isolation (Lindsay-Smith et al., 2019). Seeking therapy or counselling from a mental health professional who is knowledgeable about transgender issues can provide a safe and affirming space to explore and process feelings of shame (APA, 2015).
It’s important to note, however, that coping with shame can be complicated by societal and personal factors. For example, individuals who live in areas with limited access to gender-affirming healthcare or who face discrimination in employment or housing may find it more challenging to cope with shame (APA, 2015). Additionally, internalized transphobia can make it difficult to seek support or engage in self-compassion. It’s important for individuals who experience shame to understand that their feelings are valid and that there are resources available to help them cope.
Conclusion
In conclusion, shame is a pervasive experience for many transgender women, and is often linked to societal stigma, discrimination, and internalized transphobia. Personal accounts and research studies demonstrate that transgender individuals experience higher levels of shame and self-blame than cisgender individuals, which can have far-reaching impacts on mental health, relationships, and sense of self-worth. However, there are strategies for coping with shame, including self-compassion and seeking support from trusted individuals and mental health professionals. It’s important to note that coping with shame can be complicated by societal and personal factors, such as limited access to gender-affirming healthcare and internalized transphobia.
A call to action is needed for greater understanding and support for transgender individuals. This can involve increasing the representation of transgender individuals in media, advocating for legal protections for transgender rights, and providing education and training for mental health professionals to better understand and address the unique experiences of transgender individuals. By taking action to reduce stigma and discrimination against transgender individuals, we can create a more accepting and supportive society for all individuals.
References
American Psychological Association. (2015). Guidelines for psychological practice with transgender and gender nonconforming people. American Psychologist, 70(9), 832–864.
Koken, J. A., Bimbi, D. S., & Parsons, J. T. (2009). Experiences of familial acceptance‐rejection among transwomen of colour. Journal of LGBT Issues in Counseling, 3(2), 113-129.
Lindsay-Smith, G., Hatcher, R. L., Mahalik, J. R., & Liao, L. M. (2019). Supporting the transgender community: Guidelines for mental health providers. The Counseling Psychologist, 47(8), 1122-1154.
Neff, K. D. (2003). Self-compassion: An alternative conceptualization of a healthy attitude toward oneself. Self and Identity, 2(2), 85-101.
Neff, K. D., Hsieh, Y. P., & Dejitterat, K. (2005). Self-compassion, achievement goals, and coping with academic failure. Self and Identity, 4(3), 263-287.
Nuttbrock, L., Bockting, W., Mason, M., Hwahng, S., Rosenblum, A., Macri, M., & Becker, J. (2010). A response to the National Transgender Discrimination Survey. International Journal of Transgenderism, 12(4), 279-290.
Riggle, E. D. B., Rostosky, S. S., & Reedy, C. S. (2016). Online surveys for BGLTQ research: Issues and techniques. Journal of LGBT Issues in Counseling, 10(1), 1-21.
Tangney, J. P., & Dearing, R. L. (2002). Shame and guilt. Guilford Press.
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