Talking with Iranian trans men: Their experiences and identity development

Abstract

Introduction This research sought to discover the psychosocial experiences of trans men born and raised in Iran, including the cultural surround unique to Iran. Method Fifteen trans men aged from 20 to 35 narrated their lives through in-depth individual interviews. We applied Corbin and Straus’s (2015) approach to analyze the data in developing a Grounded Theory. Results Confusing Gender Identity (Core Theme) and eleven other themes, divided into (Macro/Micro) Contextual factors, Actions/Interactions, and Consequences, depicting the structures and processes in trans men’s lives. Escalations of Dysphoria within family structure and Traumatic Backgrounds represent Micro-contextual factors; Masculine Superiority and Feminine Gender Taboo are Macro-contextual factors; Insecurity in Emotional Relationships, Social Insecurity, Feminine Inferiority, Masculine Gender Envy, Discordant Self-image, and Unsupportive Systems are the Actions/Interactions, and Gray Fortunes represent Consequences. A Grounded Theory is developed from these findings that comprehensively represent the relational themes. Conclusion The findings clarify the contextual factors affecting Iranian trans men’s lives. They could be applied to improve the overall health of this population. As most studies and theories regarding the transgender population emanate from Western cultures, this research provides a new and comprehensive understanding of trans men’s psychological/social experiences in a unique cultural and political climate.