This project explores the mental health and support needs of Australians with complex experiences of gender-affirmation. This includes people who have:
- stopped or reversed gender-affirmation;
- experienced shifts in identity (such as from binary trans to nonbinary);
- re-claim or re-identify with their birth-registered sex; and/or
- experienced feelings of regret.
We are interested in exploring a range of experiences and perspectives, from people who might describe themselves as trans, formerly trans, retrans, or detrans.
What are the mental health experiences and needs of people with complex experiences of gender-affirmation?
What clinical and community supports are needed?
How can existing services be improved?
By understanding experiences with healthcare and support services, we hope to improve the resources available to all people considering, accessing, or ceasing gender-affirmation in Australia.
We recognise that this project involves an area that is very personal and increasingly political. Because of this, our research project takes a gender-affirming approach. This means that we show respect for each person’s authenticity, self-determination, autonomy, and their decisions regarding gender affirmation. We recognise that all gender identity, gender expression, and treatment wishes are equally acceptable.
Language
This project aims to understand a range of different experiences from people with different genders and experiences with gender-affirmation. In addition, the language of this area is still evolving -- different people might use different words to describe similar experiences. Consultation with Community Advisory Groups will help shape how we ask questions and the words we use in this study.
Because we are trying to use language that is respectful of all experiences, the language might not describe your specific experience. We welcome your participation regardless and will provide you with opportunities to provide feedback about the language you use.
More information
If you have any questions about this research project please email aus.cega@thekids.org.au.
This project is funded by Embrace @ The Kids.
Internal investigators
- Blake Cavve
- Sav Zwickl (Honorary)
- Penelope Strauss
- Helen Morgan
- Yael Perry
External investigators
- Shauna Beech
- Julie Moore
- Teddy Cook