A Qualitative Analysis of Transgender Veterans’ Lived Experiences

Transgender veterans (trans-vets) experience high rates of discrimination, family rejection, homelessness, and suicidality, yet little is known about trans-vets’ potentially positive experiences. There has been minimal qualitative research on the subjective experiences at the intersection of transgender and veteran identity. No study to date has focused on describing resilience among trans-vets. The aims of the current study were to identify major themes related to both challenges and strengths in the lived experiences of trans-vets, as well as advice they would give to their fellow trans-vets. A national convenience sample of 201 U.S. transgender veterans provided online responses to 3 open-ended questions asking about challenges, strengths, and advice related to trans-vet identity. Qualitative data were analyzed using thematic analysis and a hybrid of inductive and deductive approaches. Several recurring themes were identified, including health care access and providers, Veterans Health Administration (VA) and military experiences, discrimination, rejection versus acceptance, concealment versus authenticity, and the importance of community. Trans-vets also discussed feelings of personal strength, growth from adversity, and advocacy as important positive experiences. Findings demonstrated the centrality of military and VA experiences as unique aspects of transgender veteran identity. The present study was limited by the restricted nature of data collected from brief, open-ended online questions. Results point to the importance of provider training for trans-affirmative health care, especially in VA and military settings. Additionally, trans-vets reported that resilience can be fostered through advocacy and community building.