Transgender childhoods: the experiences of transgender and/or gender diverse young people and their families

Transgender and/or gender diverse young people commonly experience discrimination in schools, yet research has also highlighted the potential for schools to be affirming, inclusive environments. This review aimed to further explore the role of schools in the lives of GDYP, examining transgender and/ or gender diverse young peoples’ gender-related experiences through a systematic and critical review of the extant literature. Systematic searches were carried out using seven databases. Following quality appraisal, a thematic synthesis was conducted on 15 papers. Four interrelated overarching themes were identified, capturing a breadth of school-based experiences: Cultures of cisnormativity; Transphobia and microaggressions; Navigating social transition; Navigating education: What can help? Review findings are considered within the contexts of relevant psychological theory, including cisnormativity, gender minority stress, and school belonging. Research and clinical implications are considered, including suggestions for school intervention and developments to increase inclusivity.