“I am All My Identities at Once”: A Qualitative Examination of the Connection of Gender and Sexuality with Trans and Nonbinary Adults

Abstract

We examined how 12 transgender and nonbinary (TNB) adults experienced their gender and sexuality. Participants were recruited from four cities in the Midwestern United States. Semistructured qualitative interviews were used to explore two main research questions: (1) How do TNB individuals experience their gender, sexuality, and gender–sexuality connections? (2) How have TNB individuals experienced shifts in their sexuality over time and in connection with shifts in their gender? Using reflexive thematic analysis, we identified three major themes and 10 subthemes in the data. The three major themes included (a) language and terminology are helpful in the development of sexual and gender identities; (b) changes in gender identity correspond with changes in sexual experiences; and (c) identity and self-concept coevolve around gender and sexuality. Study findings suggest that sexuality is inextricably linked with gender and is a critical aspect of well-being for TNB people. Participants also described the dynamic coconstruction of their sexuality and gender, including how their experience of sexuality evolved over time and how affirming sexual experiences in turn opened avenues for gender affirmation and deeper self-understanding. Clinical implications include integrating sexuality discussion into gender exploration work in therapy and increasing therapist competency to hold such discussions with TNB clients.