Support networks of transmasculine and nonbinary young adults during chosen name transition

We sought to explore the type and function of support networks of transmasculine and nonbinary young adults (TNBYA) during their chosen name transition. We conducted 12 in-depth, semi-structured qualitative interviews (2018) to understand who was providing support and how that support was given among Midwestern United States TNBYA who had transitioned from a name given to them at birth to a chosen name. Four support networks were identified: 1) families of origin; 2) chosen family; 3) mental health professionals; and 4) LGBTQ+ community groups. Chosen family and mental health professionals provided the most reliable and consistent support. Families of origin were supportive in some ways but often required intense emotional labour from the TNBYA. Community groups were equally supportive but fraught with obstacles, such as access and lacking racial diversity and sensitivity. The four support networks identified were all described as important to the TNBYA chosen name transitioning process, but they also at times created other obstacles. Clinicians can use this research to help TNBYA identify the support networks that help affirm their identity transition. Future direction for researchers to better understand the complicated functioning of support networks for TNBYA are also provided.