In the article "Autistic Traits, Gender Minority Stress, and Mental Health in Transgender and Non-Binary Adults," Karson T. F. Kung explores the intricate relationships between autistic traits, gender minority stress, and mental health outcomes in transgender and non-binary adults.
Understanding the Intersection
Gender minority individuals, including transgender men, transgender women, and non-binary individuals, often face unique challenges. This study investigates how autistic traits and gender minority stress contribute to mental health difficulties in these populations.
Key Findings
Autistic Traits and Internalised Transphobia:
- The study found a positive correlation between autistic traits and internalised transphobia in non-binary individuals. This suggests that non-binary individuals with higher autistic traits may experience more internalised negative feelings about their gender identity.
Mental Health Outcomes:
- Higher levels of autistic traits and gender minority stress were associated with poorer mental health outcomes, including depression, anxiety, and suicidality. This was consistent across all gender minority groups studied.
Predictive Value of Autistic Traits:
- After controlling for gender minority stress, autistic traits accounted for additional variance in mental health outcomes. This was particularly notable in non-binary individuals assigned female at birth (AFAB), where autistic traits were a stronger predictor of mental health difficulties than gender minority stress.
Implications for Mental Health
The findings highlight the importance of considering both autistic traits and gender minority stress when addressing mental health in transgender and non-binary individuals. The study supports the minority stress model, which posits that external and internal stressors specific to gender minorities contribute to mental health difficulties. Additionally, it underscores the need for tailored mental health interventions that address the unique challenges faced by gender minority individuals with autistic traits.
Take-Home Message
Transgender and non-binary adults with higher levels of autistic traits and gender minority stress are more likely to experience mental health difficulties. Autistic traits can significantly impact mental health outcomes, particularly in non-binary individuals assigned female at birth. Understanding these intersections is crucial for developing effective support and interventions.
Citation:
Kung, K. T. F. (2024). Autistic Traits, Gender Minority Stress, and Mental Health in Transgender and Non-Binary Adults. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 54, 1389–1397. DOI: 10.1007/s10803-022-05875-7.