Exploring Gender Diversity in Transgender and Non-Binary Adults Accessing a Specialized Service in Italy

Abstract

In Italy, studies investigating gender identity and expression in gender non-conforming adults are lacking, as well as data regarding the non-binary population. The present study aimed at dimensionally exploring how transgender and non-binary Italian adults identify and express their gender. The Gender Diversity Questionnaire (GDQ) was administered to a sample of 109 adult subjects aged 18-60 years accessing a gender-specialized service in Rome. The majority of the participants were aged 18-24 years (52.3%), whereas fewer subjects were aged 25-35 years (33%) and 35 years and older (14.7%). Most participants (84.4%) identified themselves as trans binary, while the remaining (15.6%) identified as non-binary. Trans binary participants reported a stable gender identity, whereas non-binary participants reported a more fluid gender identity over time and across contexts. Younger subjects recognized the use of chosen names, pronouns, and clothes as important for their gender expression, whereas older subjects attributed more importance to physical appearance and emotions. Differences regarding gender-affirmative interventions emerged between non-binary and transbinary participants. The findings evidence that gender non-conforming adults accessing gender-specialized services have unique needs and features, and thus it is essential to shed light on this population by providing greater visibility and recognition.