EATING DISORDERS IN TRANSGENDER AND GENDER DIVERSE INDIVIDUALS AND RECOMMENDATIONS FOR MENTAL HEALTH PROVIDERS

Abstract

Previous research on eating disorders has mainly focused mainly on the cisgender female population, as they were thought to be the most at-risk population. However, more recent literature observes transgender and gender diverse (TGD) individuals to be at highest risk for eating disorders, and may face unique challenges when it comes to recognition of illness and ability to find treatment (Diemer et. al., 2015, Duffy et. al., 2016, Gordon et. al., 2016, Kamody et. al., 2020, Nagata et. al., 2020, Peterson et. al., 2020, & Romano & Lipson, 2021, Testa et. al., 2017). The intersection of gender identity and body image may intensify challenges around treatment and diagnosis for these individuals. In addition, disordered eating behaviors (DEBs) can be magnified by societal stigmas, lack of social/family support, and lack of gender affirming resources (Nagata et. al., 2020). The goal of this research is to investigate ways in which transgender and gender diverse individuals engage in disordered eating behaviors, as well as exploring the relationship between gender dysphoria and disordered eating. There is an existing gap in knowledge between the fields of eating disorder treatment and transgender healthcare. This research aims to bridge the gap between the fields and provide recommendations to healthcare professionals when caring for TDG individuals.