Comparative Analysis of Life Satisfaction and Self-Esteem Among Transgender and Cisgender Individuals in Bangladesh

Abstract The main objective of this study was to conduct a comparative analysis of life satisfaction and self-esteem among transgender and cisgender individuals in Bangladesh. For this purpose, a statistical cross-sectional study was conducted, in which 100 participants (50 transgender and 50 cisgender) participated. Participants were asked to fill out the Bengali translation of the Life Satisfaction Scale (LSS) and the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES). The data obtained were analyzed using SPSS version 26, where Independent Sample Test, One Way ANOVA, and Spearman’s Correlation were applied. The results showed that there was no significant statistical difference between transgender and cisgender participants in these two areas of life satisfaction (t(98) = 0.474, p = .636) and self-esteem (t(98) = -0.569, p = .570). However, while there was a significant relationship between life satisfaction and age, no such relationship was found in self-esteem. These findings suggest that the mental health disparities between transgender and cisgender individuals are now much smaller than they were in the past; rather, inclusive attitudes and supportive environments in society can have a positive impact on mental health. This research highlights the importance of gender equality in mental health, which can inform relevant and evidence-based policy-making.