Understanding Sibling Relationships in the Context of Gender Diversity

Siblings are often an important source of support and companionship and play a key role in influencing individuals’ social and emotional wellbeing. Changes to various aspects of sibling relationships have previously been studied, however, the impact of gender diversity upon this relationship has received limited attention. This study aimed to explore the lived experiences of sibling relationships when one individual identifies as transgender. Individual interviews were conducted with nine trans individuals and two siblings of trans persons using a semi-structured interview format. Thematic analysis (TA) was used to examine the impact of gender diversity on the sibling relationship. Specifically, the impact of siblings on transgender individuals’ psychological wellbeing was explored, as well as the impact of gender diversity on the sibling relationship more generally. Findings are considered in light of the Gender Minority Stress Model (GMSM; Hendrick & Testa, 2012). The analysis suggests that the experience of gender diversity and self-disclosure enhances the sibling relationship through increased shared understanding and acceptance. Findings also highlight how trans individuals often come out to their siblings first, in order to gauge their responses before coming out to their parents. Implications for clinical practice are discussed. Namely, clinical psychologists can play a pivotal role in understanding the experiences of the transgender community and in enhancing feelings of social connectedness and acceptance through systemic therapeutic approaches. Further research exploring the sibling relationship in later life and for Black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) trans individuals is recommended.