We Build Our Own Worlds: Trans and Nonmonogamous Experiences of Interpersonal Care

Abstract

Transgender people engage with nonmonogamy at a significantly higher rate than the general population, yet the intersection of these identities remains underexplored in academic literature (Perez & Pepping, 2024). The present study aims to bridge that gap by exploring the perceptions and practices of interpersonal social support among transgender and nonmonogamous individuals. Intensive, semi-structured interviews were conducted with fourteen adult trans and nonmonogamous participants to explore and document their experiences on the topics of interpersonal care, identity, and community. Analysis of the results indicated that the intersection between trans and nonmonogamous identities allowed participants the freedom to explore their gender expressions and form new types of relationships, particularly as they questioned the cisgender and monogamous norms placed on them. This questioning led them to form relationship networks with more diffused care. Many participants described caregiving as incredibly important to their personal identities, but also noted difficulties receiving care. Themes around fear of rejection or discrimination and the vulnerability that came with that were explored. This work aims to uplift the care experiences of trans and nonmonogamous individuals, as well as platform the ongoing needs of this community.