Date of Conferral

3-13-2025

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Human Services

Advisor

Kelly Chermack

Abstract

Discrimination remains a problem faced by many transgender and nonconforming (TGNC) individuals. Support for these individuals has increased significantly in recent years; however, there is no substitute for the love of family, especially parents and caregivers. Affirming a child’s TGNC identity is a challenge for some parents, who may experience feelings of loneliness and isolation from challenges related to being a parent of a TGNC child. The purpose of the generic qualitative study was to explore the experiences and behavioral and psychological characteristics of parents who had successfully affirmed the TGNC identity of their child. Guided by parent developmental theory, the study’s central research question was about the experiences and behavioral and psychological characteristics of U.S. parents who successfully affirmed their children’s TGNC identity. Semistructured interviews were conducted with nine parents from Facebook groups; thematic analysis yielded three themes: creating a safe space for one's child to be themselves, proactive in learning about one's child, and seeking and accepting support from trusted sources. Parents of transgender children (POTC) prioritized creating physical and psychological safety for their children. Parents learned about the TGNC identity to better understand their children and sought the support of others to affirm their children’s TGNC identity. The information provided in this study can empower parents to show resilience in overcoming the challenges POTCs confront. This study may contribute to positive social change through organizations and professionals providing quality social and healthcare services to this population.

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Available for download on Saturday, March 14, 2026

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