Famílias de jovens trans masculinos: revisão da literatura e estudo de caso múltiplo

Abstract

Research on trans men and their families remains scarce and recent, highlighting the need for deeper exploration in this field. This study aimed to understand the family relationships of trans men and their families of origin. Two investigations were conducted for this purpose. The first was a literature review inspired by the study's overall objective. It showed that transmasculine experiences are often addressed together with other gender and sexual identities, such as lesbians, gays, and non-binary people. This tendency dilutes the specificities of trans men's experiences, making it challenging to analyze their unique needs in detail. Additionally, most studies focus on the initial recognition of trans identity, overlooking the complex family dynamics that unfold beyond this early stage of transition. The second investigation consisted of a multiple case study involving three family groups of young trans men at a clinic specialized in trans healthcare. The analysis revealed that these families tend to be supportive, despite the challenges and conflicts they face throughout the transition journey. It was observed that, in a sense, families “transition” alongside their trans members, encountering resistance, undergoing learning experiences, and adopting greater flexibility over time. These insights fostered a reflection on the role of the family as a support network in gender transition processes and how they cope with the transformations resulting from this period. The studies complement each other, as the first provides a theoretical foundation for analyzing existing research on transmasculine experiences and family interactions, while the second complements the literature review by offering a detailed view of how families, in practice, face challenges, adjust to new realities, and develop resilience over time, adopting more flexible and supportive stances.