Abstract
Objective
To analyze experiences of families during the gender reassignment process of one of their family members.
Methods
A descriptive study with a qualitative approach was carried out with 29 members of ten families with at least one member undergoing gender transition. Data collection occurred from January 2018 to February 2019. Content analysis was carried out using the analytical technique.
Results
Five thematic categories emerged from the narrative analysis process: “physical changes as a common experience”, “fear of prejudice and violence”, “search for listening and specialized treatment”, “reconstruction of ideas and values”, and “respect, tolerance, and zeal as care”.
Conclusion
Families of individuals undergoing a gender transition process present changes of paradigms and values, face prejudice, and learn to provide care for the family member in gender transition with true zeal. Difficulties are faced through the search for specialized care, which is still scarce, and exercising citizenship in their own family system.
Gender identity; Transgender persons; Family relations