Did God make me this way? Expanding psychological research on queer religiosity and spirituality to include intersex and transgender individuals

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to traverse the fields of psychology, human sexuality and religion to find themes of commonality that can be used to shed light on how faith forms the unique life journeys of intersex and transgender people. The specific aims of this article are twofold: (1) to begin to explore the role that religion and spirituality may play in the lives of transgender and intersex individuals and (2) to provide a roadmap for psychologists and other social scientists to conduct future research in this area. We began by conducting a literature review of intersex and transgender religiosity and spirituality. After summarising the articles uncovered, we then offer suggestions on how current psychological methods and theories – including spiritual journeys, empowerment, positive psychology and stress-related growth – can be used to advance research on the role that religious and spiritual beliefs play in intersex and transgender lives. Our hope is that this article will expand the psychological study of religion and spirituality (both the positive and the negative aspects) to encompass sexual and gender minorities.