Identity Formation for Transsexual Individuals in Transition

Literature regarding the gender variant population is very limited, and what is available tends to focus on epidemiology. Within the gender variant population there is a wide array of sub-categories which deal with a range of specific issues that are even more extensive. Transsexuals, one of the sub-categories, have one of the most difficult transitions to make in order to feel confident and at peace with their selves. Transsexuals are guided in their transition by The Harry Benjamin International Gender Dysphoria Association's (HBIGDA) Standards of Care (SOC). Part of the process is exploring their transition through a therapeutic relationship. The therapeutic model that we offer is unique in its perspective on a non-pathologizing, culturally-based, identity formation, and strength-eliciting approach. By pairing Marcia's (1980) identity statuses with narrative family therapy, we believe that transsexuals can find their transition more explored and solidified, thereby resulting in a stronger, more established personal identity.