The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Mental Health, Wellness, and Identity Development of Transgender and Gender-Expansive Community Members
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This dissertation examines the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health, wellness, and identity development of transgender and gender-expansive (TGE) individuals, communities uniquely affected by systemic inequities exacerbated during global crises. Utilizing an Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) methodology grounded in queer and transgender theories, the study explores the experiences of six TGE participants across three temporal phases: before, during, and after the COVID-19 pandemic. It examines how TGE individuals navigated gender identity development, resilience, community belonging, and mental well-being amidst intersecting structural and societal challenges.Through an in-depth analysis, six key themes were identified that reflect the participants’ experiences: Navigating Authenticity and Identity Transformation, Evolving Identity and Community Integration, Resilience, Coping, and Adaptation Amid Adversity, Strengthening Bonds and Navigating Social Support Systems, Fostering Relationships and Repair Within Family Dynamics, and Envisioning the Future Amidst Sociopolitical Challenges. These themes highlight the effects of systemic barriers such as healthcare inequities, economic hardship, social isolation, and sociopolitical stressors on TGE individuals. Despite these challenges, participants demonstrated resilience by navigating adversity and engaging in growth, self-affirmation, and meaning-making through their individual experiences and TGE community engagement. This dissertation's findings emphasize the significance of culturally responsive and affirming counseling practices tailored to the distinct needs of TGE individuals. Key implications involve enhancing cultural competencies in counselor education, addressing systemic barriers in practice, and fostering environments that encourage resilience, solidarity, and inclusion when working with TGE community members. By centering the perspectives of TGE individuals, this research informs initiatives to bridge gaps in mental health care frameworks within the counseling profession, promoting equity for TGE communities and their members during crises and beyond.
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