Stigma and Guilt among Transgender Women- Moderating Role of Coping Strategies

Abstract

Transgender people go through negative experiences from multiple aspects. As their needs are unrecognized, hence not fulfilled. Consequently, they do not enjoy social inclusiveness. A correlational research design was used to investigate the relationship between stigma and guilt, transgender women (Trans women) experience in Pakistan. It examines the moderator role of coping strategies they use. The sample consisted of 155­ Trans women within a18 to 65 years recruited through purposive sampling. Urdu versions of three scales, including Transgender Identity Stigma Scale (TISS), State Shame and Guilt Scale (SSGS), and The Brief COPE Inventory, were used to collect data. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze data. Hierarchical Regression Analysis (HRA) was used to test the moderator effect of four types of coping strategies in relation to stigma and guilt among transgender women. The coping strategies assessed by The Brief COPE Inventory included Active Avoidance Coping, Problem Focused Coping, Positive Coping and Denial/Religion Coping Strategies. Results indicated that stigma and guilt were significantly and positively related. Amongst four coping strategies, only positive coping strategies played a partial moderating role in the relationship of stigma and guilt among Transgender women (R2 = .16). The need to understand the experiences of transgender women and the importance of actions to deal with this phenomenon have been highlighted. Findings of the research carry implications of using positive coping strategies in other stressful situations. Further, early identification of transgender specific needs and the role of supportive care services have been discussed.