| Consensual Qualitative Research (CQR) was used to answer the question, What is the experience of using social media to narrate gender transition? Eight individuals who identify as transgender were asked to answer 10 open-ended questions to elucidate their experience of using social media to narrate their gender transition process. Within this study, four domains were identified: Identity, Documenting Process, Supportive Online Community, and Supporter Role via Social Media. Within the Identity domain, four categories were identified: Shedding Old Identity, Developing True Identity, Living Authentically, and Visibility of True Identity. Within the Documenting Process domain, two categories were identified: Journaling Experience and Safety. Within the Supportive Online Community domain, two categories were identified: Positive Experiences and Support From Online Communities and Learning From Other Transgender Individuals Over Social Media. Lastly, within the Supporter Role via Social Media domain, two categories were identified: Mentoring Others Through the Transition Process and Responsibility for Continuous Postings. The results denote that the participants in this study found social media to be an advantageous tool throughout their gender transition process. Specifically, the results indicate that the participants used social media to explore and develop their true gender identities in a safe manner. Moreover, using social media allowed the participants to document and reflect on their progress throughout the duration of their gender transition process. Lastly, the results suggest that the participants used social media to learn from and teach others by discussing information about the gender transition process, spreading awareness, and providing support for the transgender community. |
