Exploring understandings of trans people’s experiences of gender euphoria: A systematic review and metasynthesis

Abstract

Background: Gender euphoria refers to the positive gender experiences of trans people and has been established within trans communities for decades; however, the construct has only relatively recently been acknowledged in academia. Aims: To systematically explore trans people’s experiences of gender euphoria as described within academic literature. Method: Five databases were searched for qualitative and quantitative peer-reviewed publications that included primary findings on gender euphoria. A total of 20 studies were identified for inclusion and a meta-synthesis was conducted using reflexive thematic analysis. Results: Five themes were developed: (1) Gender euphoria as motivation for self-exploration, (2) Gender euphoria as embodiment and affect, (3) Gender euphoria and a sense of community, (4) Gender euphoria as a protective factor, and (5) Gender euphoria from external affirmation. Conclusions: The current findings on gender euphoria illustrate the potential for gender euphoria to shape trans research toward a more holistic and transformative understanding of transness.