Sexual Satisfaction and Function in Gender Diverse Populations

Transgender individuals are those whose gender identity conflicts with the one assigned to them at birth
(APA, 2013). Sexual satisfaction and functioning can be important factors in an individual's holistic
quality of life; however, these aspects have been largely under-researched in transgender populations.
The first study within the project will be a systematic review to synthesise all existing research on the
factors associated with sexual satisfaction and function in transgender populations. This will highlight
socio-cultural, political, economic, interpersonal, psychological, and medical factors that may impact a
transgender individual's sexual functioning and satisfaction. Furthermore, this search may bring to light
areas of transgender sexual research that are currently under-researched.
The second study will involve conducting semi-structured interviews with approximately 15 - 20
transgender individuals about a particularly under-researched area of transgender sexual
satisfaction/function literature, such as gender euphoria and dysphoria. These interviews will be analysed
using thematic analysis to identify prominent themes and experiences.
Finally, the third study will be a large cross-sectional online questionnaire to develop a model of sexual
functioning and satisfaction within transgender populations. Structural equation modelling will identify
key relationships between many demographics and factors identified through studies one and two to
develop a comprehensive and holistic model of transgender sexual functioning/satisfaction.
Improving the understanding of transgender individuals' sexual functioning will aid both healthcare
practitioners and transgender individuals by identifying areas that negatively and positively affect sexual
functioning and satisfaction. Furthermore, this research will help fill many gaps in the literature about
transgender health.