Transgender Identity and Cultural Responsivity

This chapter examines transgender and gender-diverse (TGD) populations, highlighting terminology, prevalence, and identity development. It reviews key concepts, including gender identity, gender expression, and nonbinary identities, and presents stage-based models of TGD identity development. Findings from longitudinal and qualitative studies illustrate the psychological and social processes involved in self-discovery and affirmation, as well as associated mental health disparities in TGD populations. The chapter emphasizes the importance of understanding TGD identity development for culturally responsive assessment and intervention, particularly in forensic and justice-involved contexts.