Transgender, Transsexual, and Gender Queer Individuals with a Christian Upbringing: The Process of Resolving Conflict Between Gender Identity and Faith

Abstract

Individuals who identify as transgender, transsexual, or gender queer and Christian can face a unique set of challenges in attempting to integrate their faith and gender identity. The purpose of this qualitative study was to understand the process by which individuals with a Christian upbringing resolve conflict between their gender identity and religious beliefs. Analysis of interview transcripts revealed a model with the following fluid stages: experiencing gender socialization, having conflicts between views of self and socialized gender, defying gender norms, exploring gender and religious identities, and continually resolving issues as they arise. The article concludes with theoretical and practical implications.

Keywords:

• transgender
• gender identity
• Christian
• identity
• conflict

Acknowledgments

This research was supported in part by a summer research stipend through the College of Health Sciences at Appalachian State University.