Date of Submission
4-2024
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Doctor of Health Science
Department
Health Sciences
First Advisor
Patrick McGrady, Ph.D.
Second Advisor
Frederic Baker, Ed.D.
Third Advisor
Michael Urban, OTD, MBA, M.S
MeSH
Transgender Persons, Transsexualism,
LCSH
Transgender people, Gender nonconformity, Stigma (Social psychology), Discrimination in higher education
Abstract
Despite progress in promoting gender diversity and inclusivity, transgender and gender non-conforming (TGNC) individuals continue to experience stigma and discrimination that affect their mental and physical well-being. Research studies demonstrate that a lack of understanding and knowledge influences the development and implementation of harmful policies and practices. Moreover, the current climate subjects TGNC individuals to increased violence and other hate crimes. Despite these research advancements, there have been few educational strategies and programs that seek to address the general public’s lack of understanding of TGNC individuals. This research study aimed to investigate the presence of these beliefs, explore the factors that contribute to stigma and bias towards TGNC individuals, and propose educational strategies for addressing the pervasive issues of stigma and discrimination faced by TGNC individuals. The research employed a quantitative approach to assess individual stigma and discrimination via 38 survey questions which included 10 demographic queries, 16 Likert questions, seven knowledge-based questions, three questions that assessed source of education on the topic, and two that examined familiarity with TGNC individuals. Results revealed that participants who had familiarity with TGNC individuals had a higher mean knowledge percentage of TGNC topics. Additionally, education was found to be a significant factor in stigma and bias levels, with higher educational attainment resulting in overall lower levels of stigma and bias towards TGNC individuals. These findings show an inverse relationship between knowledge and stigma, pinpointing areas where efforts to increase understanding and reduce stigma can be focused.
Recommended Citation
Roehre, Lindsay, "Addressing Transgender and Gender Non-Conforming (TGNC) Stigma and Discrimination in Higher Education" (2024). Health Science Doctoral Thesis. 11.
https://digitalcommons.newhaven.edu/healthscidocthesis/11