(423) Psychological and Sociological Characteristics of Transgender People in Latvia: A Pilot Study

Introduction According to publications, transgender people often suffer from symptoms of depression and anxiety, and have also experienced sexual violence in the past. Until now, no research has been conducted on the psychological and social characteristics of transgender people in Latvia. Objective Aim of the study. To investigate psychological and sociological characteristics of Latvian young transgender people. Methods Participants aged 18-30 year old (n=503) were asked to do a self-administered anonymous web-based survey. The questionnaire asked respondents to answer questions about their sexual orientation, gender identity, history of sexual violence, and the presence of symptoms of anxiety and depression. Results 10 persons identified themselves as transgender. 5 of them are at different stages of the gender reassignment process. 6 persons (60%) had a history of sexual violence. 4 respondents (40%) have symptoms of depression at present, 6 (60%) - the presence of symptoms of anxiety. Conclusions A large number of transgender individuals have a history of sexual abuse and also currently suffer from symptoms of depression and anxiety. Further studies with a larger number of participants are needed to explore this issue. Disclosure No