Examining the challenges of transgender individuals in the gender adjustment process and determining their needs

Aim: The aim of this research is to examine the challenges encountered by transgender individuals who have started gender adjustment process and to determine their needs. Method: Qualitative research design was used in the research, which evaluated 14 participants, 7 trans women and 7 trans men, determined by purposeful and criterion-oriented sampling method. The experiences of transgender individuals were examined in detail through the phenomenology pattern. Semi-structured interviews were conducted as a data collection tool. In this research, content analysis and descriptive analysis were used. In line with the data obtained; codes, categories and themes were formalized through keywords. Findings: While the average age of realizing that their gender identity is different from their biological identity is 8, the average age of starting the gender adjustment process is 23. Twelve of the participants mentioned the presence of self-harm ideation before the gender adjustment process. Comorbidity diagnoses were depression and anxiety in 8 transgender individuals. Experiences of transgender individuals during the gender adjustment process were categorized as psychological and physiological experiences, challenges in the gender adjustment process, and future perspectives and expectations. According to the statements given in the semi structured interview form, the challenges they experienced were determined to be the side effects relating to hormone replacement, social reactions and discrimination, economic challenges, challenges in interaction with the healthcare system, negative emotions experienced in the psychological process, education and career obstacles and legal and bureaucratic struggles. Result/Conclusion: This research has found that parental and environmental reasons has been influential on the late onset of the gender adjustment process of the participants. It was found that starting the gender adjustment process provides a positive effect on individuals to eliminate self-harm ideation, alleviates symptoms of anxiety and depression, and is the best method to reduce gender incongruence. Social suggestions were made regarding the needs of transgender individuals, their applicability in health services, and society's attitude.