Experiences of Parents and Caregivers With Transgender Children: A Critical Review

Abstract

Children and youth who are gender diverse have markedly improved outcomes when their parents support them. Despite this, there has been minimal research on these parents until recently. This critical review includes qualitative studies published between 2008 and 2023. Findings included themes concerning the variety of emotional, cognitive, and behavioral reactions parents have when their children come out as trans, the transformative experiences of parents, and the kinds of support parents generally need. The findings demonstrate some consistencies in parental experiences across geographic and demographic profiles while also offering insights into the nuances of parenting a transgender child in today’s social and political environment. This review provides a counter-discourse to that of grief and loss that suggests parenting a transgender child is as transformative for the parents as their children.