Announcing the Final Examination of Mrs. Emma M. Tukdarian for the degree of Master of Arts in the department of Sociology
Transitioning into adulthood, LGBTQ+ young adults are in a precarious situation, where their independence and authentic self-expression is pitted against overwhelming concerns of personal safety and autonomy. Their medical goals are often put on hold because of such fears, worsening mental and physical health. Using Queer Battle Fatigue and Minority Stress Theory as lenses, this study analyzes 60 in-depth interviews with transgender and gender non-conforming (TGNC) young adults between ages 18 and 24, to determine when and where negative emotions are experienced while navigating various healthcare systems within Florida. By looking for key phrases showing discontent, many participants shared fears revolving around being outed by medical providers to unsupportive parents, along with avoiding medical help, out of fear of being mistreated by the provider and/or staff. Participants also shared fatigue after having to educate medical providers and others in positions of power about their individual care, or even having to go so far as to “reenter the closet” for safety or social reasons. This study adds to the literature by highlighting the emotional struggles of TGNC young adults navigating healthcare within Florida, and the impact of chronic stressors that come from simply existing as a TGNC person in those environments.
Committee in Charge:
Dr. Shannon Carter
Dr. Michael Armato
Dr. Amanda Koontz
Dr. Lindsay Taliaferro
Read More