Methods: Three clinical cases identified to explore experiences of parents of transgender youth under the age of 18 and seeking treatment at a LGBTQIA+ specialty clinic. The clinic is located in a Southwestern United States metropolitan area. Cases were identified via retrospective chart review and email was used to invite individuals to participate in an interview. Three parents responded and agreed to participate in an interviewing over 45 -60 minutes. Two parents identified as cis-gender heterosexual male and female as well as one as a bisexual cis-gender female. Child identities were transgender male (age 14 & 16 years) and transgender female (age 17 years).
Results: Qualitative intent of this process focused on developing a formal, yet flexible, phenomenological interview schedule to describe more fully the delivery of transgender care guided through parental oversight. Thematic generation included four major areas: “Community members as a resource,” “Keeping my child alive,” “I wish providers would know this,” “Children guiding their parents,” and “Institutional and provider power vs. parent power and resistance.” Parent participation was motivated by a desire to be heard, share their stories for the purpose of creating positive change and provide data for the improvement of transgender health delivery.
Treatment with hormonal delivery systems varied in administration type and duration of effect. Surgical intentions were also heterogenous. Developmentally, each child stated knowing earlier than disclosure. Knowledge of suicide as a risk in transgender youth was prominent. Knowledge in other areas of health disparities within the LGBTQIA+ community varied. Comprehensive medical homes specializing in transgender care are difficult to access due to location and identification and some patients must travel substantial distances in order to receive services, however, telemedicine provides promise in improving access.
Conclusion: These findings from clinical cases guide the formation of further research. Emphasis is on development of research questions based upon clinical cases representing the needs of patients and clinicians in the real world environment. Research concerning parents of transgender youth is urgent for development of healthcare strategies focusing on the transitioning individual’s holistic environment.