Mapping the challenges faced by the Transgender Community

Transgender communities face a lot of inequalities and injustice in our country. The overall population of transgender is 4,87,803 in India. Transgender people experience gender-based violence, which hinders their access to the services provided and which, in turn, will affect their quality of life. The study seeks to systematically map the challenges of the transgender community and to inform better support strategies for them. The aim of the research is to identify the physical, psychological and social challenges of the transgender community. A cross-sectional design was employed, incorporating quantitative surveys of 60 transgender participants. The interview schedule assessed the physical challenges, psychological problems and challenges in social support networks. The participants were selected based on the snowball sampling method. The researcher developed the interview schedule and administered through an NGO working for transgender community. The findings reveal significant barriers in healthcare including gender reassignment surgery, high rates of anxiety and stress linked to stigma and social exclusion. They also highlighted the lack of supportive community resources and emphasised the need for acceptance in society. The increased social acceptance will enhance their overall physical and psychological well-being.

Keywords: Transgender, Physical, Psychological, Social Challenges, Gender-based violence