Discrimination, Social Acceptance and Support

Abstract

<p>Discrimination against transgender people on the basis of their gender identity or expression is illegal in Australia, however it is not always easy for Australian transgender people to find adequate social support. This chapter examines data on discrimination and social support generated by the 273 FtM transgender Australians in the 2013 <i>E-Males</i> study. Some participants had no experiences of discrimination on the basis of transphobia, others had experienced public humiliation and verbal and/or physical abuse. Coming out was fraught with difficulties including the potential end of key relationships. Mostly, it was a positive experience in that it relieved self-doubt, generated understanding and supported transitions. Sometimes participants felt they had to be advocates for FtM transgender communities, other times they reported "going stealth" for safety reasons or to more fully embody their gender identity. Respondents' general wellbeing and quality of life was significantly influenced by relationships with family, friends and intimate partners.</p>