Transgender suicidal behavior occurs at an alarmingly high rate when compared to the general population. This presentation will present the research conducted on this subject, including the historical and current literature regarding the underlying psychological factors for high suicidal behavior rates among transgender population. The theoretical study reviewed the current known risk and protective factors for suicide among the general public in comparison to those of the transgender population. The complex and many risk and protective factors appear to be interrelated. The study explored the connection to violence, victimization and discrimination against transgender people as a prevalent and significant risk factor within transgender population. Applying the lens of the interpersonal theory of suicide to specific transgender risk factors for completed suicide allows for an in-depth exploration of the underlying psychological factors that drive a higher probability of suicidal behavior among this population.
The research project’s findings are that there is a strong link between transgender suicide and psychological factors driven significantly by prevalent transphobic and gender-based violence. The violence that is predictive of suicide risk in the transgender population is discrimination and physical and sexual victimization among transgender people, which is scientifically-established as a risk factor for suicidal behavior in this population. A discussion of findings, conclusions and areas for future research will be discussed.
© 2023 Sacramento Valley Psychological Association
