Susan J Campling, RN, Psy.D
Understanding transgender experiences involves compassion, listening, and a willingness to learn about the many biological, psychological, social, and cultural factors that influence gender identity. While every trans person’s journey is unique, scientific research increasingly supports what many trans people already know from lived experience: gender identity is a deeply rooted aspect of human development, shaped by a combination of internal and external factors.
This article provides an accessible overview of transgender experiences and integrates what researchers currently understand about genetic, hormonal, neurological, and developmental influences on gender identity.
What Does It Mean to Be Transgender?
A transgender (or “trans”) person is someone whose gender identity—one’s internal sense of being male, female, both, neither, or another identity—differs from the sex they were assigned at birth. This identity is deeply felt, forms early in development for many people, and is not something chosen or “caused” by external pressures.
Understanding trans identity begins with recognizing gender identity as a natural variation of human experience.
Current Research on Biological and Genetic Factors
Scientists do not attribute gender identity to one single “cause.” Instead, the emerging consensus is that gender identity develops from a biological foundation influenced by genetics, prenatal hormones, and brain structure, alongside psychological and social experiences. Research is ongoing, but several findings are widely discussed in scientific literature.
1. Genetic Influences
Studies involving twins and family patterns suggest that genetics play a contributing—but not deterministic—role.
- Twin Studies: Identical twins (who share nearly 100% of their genes) show higher concordance rates for transgender identity than fraternal twins. This suggests genetics are one factor in gender identity development.
- Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWAS): Preliminary research has identified possible genetic variants related to hormone signaling and brain development among some transgender individuals.
These findings are not conclusive but support the idea that biology influences gender identity.
Key takeaway: Genetics may contribute, but no single “transgender gene” exists. Instead, multiple genes likely interact with hormonal and developmental factors.
2. Prenatal Hormone Exposure
Another area of research focuses on hormones affecting brain development during prenatal life.
- Sex hormone exposure in the womb (like testosterone or estrogen) influences the development of brain structures associated with gender identity.
- Some studies propose that variations in sensitivity to these hormones—due to genetic or environmental factors—may influence future gender identity.
Researchers emphasize that these factors are developmental, not behavioral, meaning they occur long before birth and are not caused by parenting or childhood environment.
3. Brain Structure and Functional Studies
Neuroscience research has found that certain brain characteristics in transgender adults resemble those of people who share their gender identity, not the sex they were assigned at birth.
Examples include:
- Patterns in white matter microstructure
- Differences in specific brain region volumes
- Functional patterns of connectivity resembling the affirmed gender
These findings do not claim that transgender identity is “in the brain” in a simplistic way—brain development is influenced by hormones, genetics, and experience—but they increasingly support the biological legitimacy of gender identity.
4. Interplay of Biology and Identity
Most researchers agree that:
- Biological factors create a predisposition or foundation for gender identity.
- Personal, cultural, and psychological experiences influence how someone understands and expresses that identity.
- No single biological marker defines gender identity.
This “biopsychosocial” model reflects the complexity of all human identity development—not just transgender identity.
Identity Development and Emotional Experience
Beyond biology, many trans people describe the internal journey of understanding their gender identity. Common experiences include:
- A sense of internal knowing that differs from external expectations
- Relief when finding language or communities that reflect their experience
- A desire to express themselves authentically
- Emotional discomfort or distress when forced to live as a gender that does not align with their identity
These experiences are not explained by external influences such as trends, social pressure, or parenting style. They are consistent across cultures, eras, and contexts, supporting the understanding that gender identity arises from internal, deeply rooted processes.
The Role of Transition
Transition allows individuals to align outer life with inner self. It may include:
- Social transition (name, pronouns, clothing)
- Medical transition (hormone therapy or surgery, if desired)
- Legal transition (document changes)
Research consistently shows improved mental health and well-being after affirming transition steps—regardless of whether those steps are social, medical, or both.
Challenges Trans People Often Face
Despite growing understanding, many trans people encounter obstacles that affect emotional and physical well-being:
- Misgendering and invalidation
- Stigma or discrimination
- Barriers to healthcare
- Family rejection or misunderstanding
- Employment or housing discrimination
- Mental-health stress due to external pressures
It’s important to note:
Trans people’s elevated rates of anxiety, depression, or self-harm are overwhelmingly linked to external stigma—not to being transgender itself.
The Power of Affirmation
Research consistently shows that affirmation—being respected for one’s identity—has profound benefits:
- Lower rates of anxiety and depression
- Decreased suicidality
- Improved self-esteem
- Greater connection and belonging
- Healthier relationships and coping skills
Affirmation does not require expertise—just respect, openness, and willingness to learn.
How to Support Trans People
- Use correct names and pronouns
- Listen without assuming
- Avoid intrusive questions
- Educate yourself rather than relying on trans people to teach
- Create inclusive spaces
- Support access to appropriate healthcare
- Recognize and interrupt bias
Small acts of respect can significantly enhance safety and belonging.
Celebrating Joy and Resilience
Although the challenges are real, many trans people describe profound moments of joy:
- Living authentically
- Experiencing gender euphoria
- Building chosen family
- Connecting with supportive communities
- Contributing to culture, leadership, and creativity
Trans communities have long histories of resilience, innovation, and courage.
Conclusion
Understanding transgender experiences requires a blend of scientific knowledge, emotional awareness, and empathy. Emerging research on genetics, prenatal development, and neuroscience supports what trans people have always known: gender identity is real, deeply rooted, and not a choice.
When society fosters respect and understanding, transgender people are able to thrive, live authentically, and contribute fully to their communities. By learning, listening, and supporting, we help create a world that recognizes the diversity of human identity and honors each person’s right to live as their true self.
Dr. Susan J Campling 