First Advisor

Tina Burdsall

Date of Award

Spring 6-11-2026

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Psychology and University Honors

Department

Psychology

Language

English

Subjects

Transgender, suicide, nonbinary

DOI

10.15760/honors.1853

Abstract

Suicide is often considered a mental health issue alone. For Transgender and gender non-conforming (TGNC) people, suicide can be a response to erasure of self and living under oppression conditions. The sociopolitical climate in the United States (U.S.), has become more hostile for TGNC people, along with legislative action that criminalizes their existence. This project explores the intersections of identity and nuances of suicide and death. The present study consists of 14 semi-structured interviews. This study examined the intersections of gender and culture on suicide responses, highlighting the importance of culturally relevant and community-led support for Transgender and gender expansive people experiencing suicidality. The present study found eight main findings 1) nuanced feelings about suicide and death 2) intersection of self 3) gender 4) guilt, shame, isolation 5) outness 6) interaction with institutions 7) TGNC childhood 8) strength, joy, connection. When considered together, these findings show what shapes the relationships between gender, life, and relationship with suicide and death. This study provides knowledge on the experience of suicidality for TGNC individuals.

Persistent Identifier

https://archives.pdx.edu/ds/psu/44787

Download

Share

COinS