Abstract
Purpose: This article reports on the findings of a meta-synthesis undertaken on published gray transgender suicidality literature, to determine the average rate of suicidal ideation and attempts in this population.Methods: Studies included in this synthesis were restricted to the 42 that reported on 5 or more Canadian or U.S. adult participants, as published between 1997 and February 2016 in either gray or peer-reviewed health literature.Results: Across these 42 studies an average of 55% of respondents ideated about and 29% attempted suicide in their lifetimes. Within the past year, these averages were, respectively, 51% and 11%, or 14 and 22 times that of the general public. Overall, suicidal ideation was higher among individuals of a male-to-female (MTF) than female-to-male (FTM) alignment, and lowest among those who were gender non-conforming (GNC). Conversely, attempts occurred most often among FTM individuals, then decreased for MTF individuals, followed by GNC individuals.Conclusion: These findings may be useful in creating targeted interventions that take into account both the alarmingly high rate of suicidality in this population, and the relatively differential experience of FTM, MTF, and GNC individuals. Future research should examine minority stress theory and suicidality protection/resilience factors, particularly transition, on this population.
Highlights
In recent years, transgender individuals have rapidly gained visibility
Findings Methodologically speaking, much has changed within the period covered by this meta-synthesis
The majority of transgender suicidality research takes place in nonclinical environments, which is a marked contrast from the beginning of this period and the previous era
Summary
They continue to be at risk for negative life events that adversely affect their health and well-being, such as being rendered invisible, experiencing isolation, and being subjected to societal violence.[1] Perhaps as a result, current and past studies report appallingly high rates of suicidality (attempts and ideation) in this population. The current meta-synthesis attempts to address these discrepancies by measuring the overall variation across and averaging the suicidality rates within these studies. This knowledge may encourage the creation of targeted and strategic mental health interventions and research
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