A systematic literature search of the education needs of family members of transgender young people

Aim: The purpose of the review was to conduct a systematic literature search to explore the education needs of family members of transgender young people in order to inform the development of an education intervention for... [ view full abstract ]

Aim: The purpose of the review was to conduct a systematic literature search to explore the education needs of family members of transgender young people in order to inform the development of an education intervention for families of people who are transgender in Ireland

Search and review methodology: The review aim was identified and a protocol with exclusion/inclusion criteria was developed. Three primary search concepts were identified – ‘family’, ‘transgender’, and ‘education’. Synonyms and alternate versions of each concept were developed and a search string devised. Pilot searches were conducted and reviewed by the researchers and the university’s database expert. The final search was conducted in 30 databases. A total of 5,362 references were extracted: 42% were removed as duplicates and 54% upon review of title and abstract. A hand search of the literature was also done. In total, 68 publications were included in the final review.

Findings: Three key themes emerged, including the role of education on the family, how families access education, and the nature of families' education needs. These themes provide a strong basis for answering the literature review aim. The literature review established the critical importance of accurate and accessible information for families of people who are transgender. It suggests that families are seeking information and are actively willing to source education in a variety of ways. It also highlighted a lack of education opportunities for families of people who are transgender in Ireland.

Conclusions and implications: The literature review provides clear evidence for the progression of the current study which aims to design, deliver, and evaluate an education programme for families of people who are transgender.