The activities of the Self and Mutual Help Group for Transgender People of Transgender counseling of Torre del Lago (Italy) from 2008 to present

The present contribution describes the activities of nine years (since 2008) of the Self and Mutual Help Group performed at the Consultorio Transgenere in Torre del Lago Puccini (Lucca, Italy). The group was open to... [ view full abstract ]

The present contribution describes the activities of nine years (since 2008) of the Self and Mutual Help Group performed at the Consultorio Transgenere in Torre del Lago Puccini (Lucca, Italy).
The group was open to transgender people, their relatives, partners and friends. The method of operation of the group, participant characteristics, most common topics of discussion, benefits perceived from the meetings are discussed. Furthermore, the contribution analyzes the dynamics of homo-transphobia operating in the cultural context detected by the participants, and how these are addressed.
The work also illustrates the collaborations over the years that have occurred between the group of self and mutual help and various professionals (psychologists, doctors, journalists, artists) who have carried out research and work on the issue of gender identity.

Purpose of the research is to evaluate the positive effects of the meetings of Self and Mutual Help Group for transgender people on their lives in terms of improved well-being, growing awareness of gender identity, greater... [ view full abstract ]

Purpose of the research is to evaluate the positive effects of the meetings of Self and Mutual Help Group for transgender people on their lives in terms of improved well-being, growing awareness of gender identity, greater knowledge of therapeutic options for Gender Dysphoria, increase of social support, development of skills in fighting homo-transphobia and social stigma.

The research is made by the analysis of statistical data on the participation of the group in the years, on different parameters: participant characteristics, transition type (MtF, FtM or other), duration of the group path,... [ view full abstract ]

The research is made by the analysis of statistical data on the participation of the group in the years, on different parameters: participant characteristics, transition type (MtF, FtM or other), duration of the group path, participation in the group of family, partners and significant others. They are also analyzed questionnaires and interviews made with participants and conductor of the Self and Mutual Help Group.

The main outcome of group activity is measured by submitting to the participants specific questionnaires on the outcome about psychological well-being, gender identity and internalized transphobia, and by the qualitative... [ view full abstract ]

The main outcome of group activity is measured by submitting to the participants specific questionnaires on the outcome about psychological well-being, gender identity and internalized transphobia, and by the qualitative analysis of structured interviews administered to the participants and to the conductors.

Results of our analyzes show a significant improvement in psychological well-being of transgender people that follow the Self Help and Mutual Group activities, with a greater awareness of their gender identity and a better... [ view full abstract ]

Results of our analyzes show a significant improvement in psychological well-being of transgender people that follow the Self Help and Mutual Group activities, with a greater awareness of their gender identity and a better understanding of treatment options. The social support received by the group is essential for life in the role of desired gender, and helps people in fighting homo-transphobia and social stigma.

The Self and Mutual Help Group activity, that continues for nine years, is a crucial time to support transgender people in our area. As well as improve psychological well-being, it is useful to transgender people and families... [ view full abstract ]

The Self and Mutual Help Group activity, that continues for nine years, is a crucial time to support transgender people in our area. As well as improve psychological well-being, it is useful to transgender people and families in contrast to homo-transphobia and in building a strong social network. The activity of the group improve dialogue and collaboration between transgender people and professionals, and it has positive impact on the community promoting knowledge and good culture on the transgender issues.