Transsexuals of Color: Perceptions of Discrimination Based on Transsexual Status and Race/Ethnicity Status

This exploratory study utilized convenience sampling to gather data from 33 self-identified transsexuals of color. Data were collected regarding their experiences of discrimination based on their transsexual status and their race/ethnicity status as well as their perceptions of personal well-being as measured by self- esteem and life satisfaction. Respondents experienced discrimination based on their transsexual status as more aversive than discrimination based on their race/ethnicity in 13 of 16 social venues. However, discrimination based on race/ethnicity was more often related to indices of well-being. The authors compare and contrast these two manifestations of discrimination in the context of a multi-theoretical framework.