Research Symposium

BIO

I am Yasu Patel, a Cell & Molecular Neuroscience student at Florida State University, Class of 2028. I came here from Needham, Massachusetts and have a strong interest in exploring as many facets of neuroscience as I can. I’m particularly fascinated by research on affective neuroscience and the cellular mechanisms behind cognition. Beyond academics, I enjoy diving into thought-provoking discussions with my friends over a good board game.

Exploring the Relation of Access to Healthcare with Gender Euphoria in Transgender Adults

Abstract

Despite increase accessibility to gender-affirming care for transgender individuals, there is insufficient research on the population’s unique needs. Current studies highlight the positive mental health impacts on transgender adults when healthcare providers promote gender euphoria (Beischel et. al, 2021). The term gender euphoria is positive feelings experienced in relation to one's true gender (Jacobson & Devor, 2022). For transgender adults these feelings may be experience through gender-affirming healthcare such as hormone replacement therapy and surgical interventions (Coleman et. al, 2022). This study aims to explore the relation of gender euphoria in transgender adults between the ages of 18-29 when receiving gender-affirming care in Florida. A qualitative phenomenological approach will be implemented to analyze the data. Snowball sampling will be employed to recruit 6 to ten participants. Interviews will be conducted via HIPAA-compliant Zoom. The aim of this study is to assess the phenomenon of gender euphoria for transgender adults in access to healthcare through addressing two research questions: “When receiving gender-affirming care in a healthcare setting, what is the nature of gender euphoria as experienced by transgender adults in Florida?” and “How do barriers to healthcare insurance (e.g., insurance, discrimination) shape experiences with gender euphoria in transgender adults?” Data will be coded into themes informing the study findings. This research will provide healthcare psychologist with interventions to increase feelings of gender euphoria for clients who are transgender. Further research is needed to better understand the prevalence of gender euphoria in transgender adult from various populations.

Keywords: Healthcare, transgender, accessibility, wellness