Beyond Binary: Unraveling Transgender Identities and Examining the Interplay of Familial Acceptance, Legal Rights, and Mental Well-being in the Third Gender

I. Introduction

The term transgender refers to individuals whose gender identity, gender expression, or behavior differs from the sex assigned to them at birth. It encompasses a diverse group of people who do not conform to conventional societal expectations regarding gender roles and identities. The word transgender is derived from the Latin prefix trans, meaning “across” or “beyond,” and the English word gender. Since the mid-1990s, the term has gained widespread acceptance as an inclusive umbrella concept describing individuals whose gender identities transcend the traditional male–female binary framework.

Transgender identity is distinct from sexual orientation. While sexual orientation relates to an individual's emotional, romantic, or sexual attraction, transgender identity concerns a person's internal sense of gender. Therefore, transgender individuals may identify as heterosexual, homosexual, bisexual, asexual, or any other sexual orientation. The transgender community includes various culturally specific identities such as Hijras, Kothis, Aravanis, Jogappas, Shiv-Shaktis, and Eunuchs, each possessing unique historical and socio-cultural significance within Indian society.

According to the Census of India (2011), the transgender population in the country was estimated at approximately 4.88 lakh. Despite their historical presence in Indian society, transgender persons continue to face significant social, economic, and political marginalization. They often encounter discrimination in education, employment, healthcare, housing, and access to public services, resulting in exclusion from mainstream social and economic development (Raju & Beena, 2015).

The concepts of sex and gender are fundamentally different. Sex refers to biological characteristics such as chromosomes, hormones, and reproductive anatomy, whereas gender is a socially and culturally constructed concept associated with roles, behaviors, expressions, and identities. The distinction between sex and gender has become increasingly important in understanding the experiences of transgender and other gender-diverse individuals. The International Development Research Centre (IDRC, 2020) observed that most data collection systems have traditionally focused on biological sex rather than gender identity, leading to the underrepresentation and invisibility of transgender and intersex persons in official statistics and development planning. Consequently, gender-disaggregated data often fails to capture the lived realities and specific needs of gender minorities.

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP India, 2010) defines transgender persons as individuals whose gender identity or expression differs from the sex assigned to them at birth. Many transgender individuals experience a deep and persistent identification with a gender different from their biological sex and may choose to live, either full-time or part-time, in accordance with their self-identified gender. Recognition of transgender identities is essential for ensuring equality, dignity, human rights, and social inclusion in contemporary democratic societies.

Hierarchy of trans-genders: Hijras, India's transgender community, are frequently expelled by their biological families or flee at a young age due to harassment. As a result, they are disinherited from their family property and are without a source of income. As a result of this practise, gurus/teachers emerge who play the roles of den mother, godfather, spiritual leader, and pimp for these marginalised hijras, and they eventually become chelas/disciples of their gurus. Hijras include gurus. They are typically in their forties and fifties, and their relationship with chelas is tumultuous. It is based on the Hindu joint family or the relationship between a spiritual leader and his disciples in Hinduism, but it frequently transforms into a pyramid sales

scheme as well as a divisive feudal kinship. When a hijra decides to join this community, they pay a "fee" that grants them the right to earn a living in the territory "owned" by their guru. Mid-ranking hijras who report to gurus manage younger chelas or disciples. A guru's wealth and possessions are passed down to one or more of their chelas. Gurus and chelas are both members of the same "house/gharana", a non-localized symbolic descent group akin to a clan. Each house has its own origin story as well as its own set of rules. When a hijra dies, the funeral is organised by a member of her family. Orjamat, the head of these houses within a specific city or geographical region, is appointed by an elder council. The goal of every hijra guru is to have as many chelas as possible working for them. In addition to the hierarchical guru-chela relationship, hijras have fictive kinship with one another.

A. Objectives of study

To study about the historical evolution of trans-genders.

1. To examine the socio-economic problems faced by trans-genders.

2. To know about the various rights given to trans-genders.

3. To study about the legal aid of trans-genders.

4. To investigate the influence of familial acceptance and support on the mental well-being of transgender individual.

B. Research methodology

The current study relies on both primary and secondary sources. It is an exploratory study. To conduct the research, both primary and secondary data was used. The observation method was used to collect primary data and secondary sources included articles, research journals, and booksand literature has been explored to support the analysis.

C. Review of Literature

1. Olson, K. R., Durwood, L., DeMeules, M., & McLaughlin, K. A. (2016) “Mental Health of Transgender Children Who Are Supported in Their Identities”

This study examined the mental health status of socially transitioned transgender children and compared them with cisgender children. The researchers found that transgender children who received family and social support exhibited levels of depression and anxiety comparable to their cisgender peers. The study challenged the traditional assumption that poor mental health outcomes are inevitable among transgender youth and highlighted the importance of supportive family environments in promoting psychological well-being.

2. Flores, A. R., Herman, J. L., Gates, G. J., & Brown, T. N. T. (2016) “How Many Adults Identify as Transgender in the United States?”

This landmark demographic study estimated the size of the transgender population in the United States using large-scale population surveys. The authors estimated that approximately 1.4 million adults identified as transgender, representing about 0.6 percent of the adult population. The study provided important statistical evidence regarding the visibility and demographic distribution of transgender individuals and became a foundational reference for policymakers and researchers.

3. Reisner, S. L., Poteat, T., Keatley, J., et al. (2016) “Global Health Burden and Needs of Transgender Populations: A Review”

This comprehensive review highlighted the significant health disparities experienced by transgender individuals worldwide. The study found that transgender populations face elevated risks of mental health disorders, HIV infection, substance abuse, discrimination, and barriers to healthcare access. The authors emphasized the need for inclusive healthcare systems, legal protections, and targeted public health interventions to improve transgender health outcomes.

4. Watson, R. J., Veale, J. F., & Saewyc, E. M. (2017) “Disordered Eating Behaviors Among Transgender Youth”

This study explored health-risk behaviours among transgender adolescents, including substance use and disordered eating patterns. The findings indicated that transgender youth experienced significantly higher levels of health-risk behaviours compared to cisgender youth, largely due to minority stress, social exclusion, and discrimination. The study stressed the importance of school-based and community support systems to reduce health inequalities.

5. Aitken, M., VanderLaan, D. P., Wasserman, L., et al. (2021) “Quality of Life and Mental Health Outcomes in Gender-Diverse Individuals”

This research examined factors affecting quality of life among gender-diverse individuals. The study found that access to gender-affirming healthcare, social acceptance, and strong support networks were positively associated with mental well-being and life satisfaction. Conversely, experiences of stigma, discrimination, and social isolation negatively affected psychological health. The authors advocated for comprehensive social and healthcare support mechanisms.

6. James, S. E., Herman, J. L., Rankin, S., et al. (2016) “The Report of the U.S. Transgender Survey”

Based on one of the largest surveys of transgender individuals, this report documented widespread discrimination in employment, education, healthcare, and housing. The findings revealed high rates of psychological distress, poverty, and suicide attempts among transgender individuals. The report underscored the urgent need for anti-discrimination policies and inclusive social services.

7. White Hughto, J. M., Reisner, S. L., & Pachankis, J. E. (2015) “Transgender Stigma and Health: A Critical Review of Stigma Determinants, Mechanisms, and Interventions”

This study analyzed how stigma affects transgender health outcomes. The authors demonstrated that social stigma operates at structural, interpersonal, and individual levels, contributing to poor mental and physical health. The study recommended policy reforms, community education, and healthcare provider training to combat stigma and improve transgender well-being.

8. Chakrapani, V., Newman, P. A., Shunmugam, M., et al. (2017) “Barriers to Free Antiretroviral Treatment Access for Transgender Women in India”

This Indian study explored healthcare access among transgender women and identified discrimination, social exclusion, poverty, and lack of awareness as major barriers to healthcare utilization. The research highlighted the need for transgender-sensitive healthcare policies and improved outreach programs in India.

II. Historical evolution of trans-genders

For centuries, transgender people have been a part of Indian society. There is historical evidence of recognition of third gender or the person not sanctioned to male or female gender in ancient Indian texts near the beginning. The concept of tritiya-prakriti or napumsaka was central to Hindu mythology, folklore, epics, and early Vedic and Puranic literatures. The term 'napumsaka' was used to describe the lack of procreative ability, which was demonstrated by distinguishing between masculine and female signs. As a result, some of the early texts dealt comprehensively with sexuality and the concept of third gender, which was a recognised thought at the time. In fact, the Jain text mentions the concept of 'psychological sex', whichemphasises an individual's psychological make-up as distinct from their sexual characteristics (Michelraj, 2015). Transgender people have been granted the authority to bestow blessings on auspicious occasions such as marriage and childbirth. They sing, dance, and bestow their blessings on these occasions and inaugural functions. Transgender people have played an important role in the royal courts of the Islamic world, particularly in Ottoman empires and Mughal rule in Medieval India. They rose through the ranks to become well-known political advisors, administrators, managers, officers, generals, and guardians. Transgenders were considered indigenous, astute, truthful, responsible, and loyal, and had free access to all areas, places, and sections of the population, thus playing an important role in Mughal empire building politics. Transgender people held high positions in Islamic religious institutions, particularly in charge of guarding the holy sites of Mecca and Medina. They were regarded as trustworthy, had influence over state decisions, and received large sums of money for being close to the kings and queens. As a result, transgender people frequently discuss the significance of their positions during that time period (Michelraj, 2015).

During the early days of British rule in India, transgender people were given security and benefits by some Indian states in exchange for entering their community. Furthermore, the benefits included the provision of land, food rights, and a small amount of money from agricultural households in specific areas, which were eventually removed by British legislation because the land was not inherited through kinship ties. In the second half of the nineteenth century, the British colonial administration worked hard to outlaw the transgender community and deny them civil rights. The British considered them to be distinct castes or tribes in various parts of India.

III. Problems faced by trans-genders

There have been a number of challenges and issues faced by transgender people in the community, which have been listed below:

1. Low level of education- These people do not have a high level of education, which has impacted them greatly. They were either not enrolled in educational institutions or dropped out at a young age. Those who drop out of school, usually feel unsafe in school because of their gender expression; they are harassed and abused, and this makes them feel vulnerable within the school environment. Another reason is that their financial situation is poor and they are unable to pay for their education, hence at an early age they look for means to generate the source of income.

2. Lack of a safe environment- Because of their gender atypical behaviours, transgender people frequently face confusion and negative reactions. The main issues they face are a lack of safe environments, limited access to health care and medical services, insufficient resources to address mental health concerns, verbal and physical abuse, and a lack of continuity of caregiving by family and community members. Due to depressed living conditions and problems, the trans-genders even think of taking their own lives. They develop their notion that their existence is meaningless and they do not have any recognition within the society.

3. Lack of employment opportunities- Individuals with reputed jobs and employment opportunities are expected to have some level of education, at least the basic literacy skills of reading, writing, and arithmetic. Because of their lack of education, these individuals are unable to find employment in reputable organisations and institutions. However, there have been measures implemented that have resulted in an improvement in their status; as a result, they have been employed in projects, either run by themselves or by members of civil society who have employed trans-gender in their respective community-based Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs). These NGOs focused primarily on HIV/AIDS and other related issues, and it is critical to understand that the availability of transgenders for interviews is beneficial in these projects (Chettiar, 2015).

4. Health problems- Transgender people face health issues as a result of a lack of safe living conditions and other amenities. They have one or more illnesses, such as low or high blood pressure, diabetes, leg pain, and so on. A major source of concern has been an increase in the number of HIV-positive transgender people who do not reveal their status or seek treatment, and thus contract the disease at a young age. Colds, flu, typhoid, malaria, asthma, and other health issues are also common among these people. Health issues of various kinds are experienced by all people, not just transgender people. The majority of transgender people have been satisfied with the care they have received and the attitude of the private doctors in their clinics. In today's world, doctors and physicians are optimistic about providing treatment to those who pay their fees on time (Chettiars, 2015).

5. Discrimination- Transgender people face widespread discrimination, which is referred to as stigmatisation. They face discrimination in all aspects of life, including employment opportunities, enrolment in educational institutions, legal recognition, access to social resources, living a decent and normal life, and skill development. These people are turned away in many places because it is assumed that they always ask for extra money. The struggle for transgender communities begins at a young age. Non-conformity to prescribed gender roles exposes them to verbal and physical abuse at the hands of their parents, siblings, and other family members. Individuals experience mental trauma as a result of discriminatory treatment (Bund, 2013).

6. Oppression - Another negative aspect that transgender people face is oppression. Transgender women in Kashmir face severe oppression: they are treated cruelly and unkindly, and they are harassed and discriminated against. They lack independence and confidence in their ability to participate in social and political decision making. Because of their low level of education, they are ineligible for white collar jobs and are forced to work in minority jobs, which do not pay well. The oppression they face forces them to relocate, and the nature of the oppression primarily consists of verbal and physical abuse, which has a serious impact on these people's psychological outlook. Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Major Depressive Episode (MDE), suicidal tendencies, and panic disorders are examples of mental health issues (Bund, 2013).

IV. The influence of familial acceptance and support on the mental well-being of transgender individual

Familial acceptance and support serve as protective factors that can mitigate the negative impacts of societal stigma, discrimination, and prejudice experienced by transgender individuals. When families provide understanding, affirmation, and unconditional love, transgender individuals are more likely to develop a positive sense of self, experience reduced distress, and have improved mental health outcomes.

Definitions and Concepts related to transgender individuals and mental health:

Transgender individuals: Transgender individuals are those whose gender identity differs from the sex they were assigned at birth. Gender identity is a deeply-felt sense of being male, female, or another gender, which may or may not align with the sex assigned at birth.

Gender dysphoria: Gender dysphoria refers to the distress experienced by individuals when their gender identity does not align with the sex assigned at birth. It is characterized by a marked incongruence between one’s experienced gender and the assigned gender.

Mental health: Mental health encompasses a person’s emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how individuals think, feel, and act, and influences their ability to cope with stress, interact with others, and influences their ability to cope with stress, interact with others, and make choices. Mental health issues can range from mild to severe and may include conditions such as depression, anxiety, and mood disorders. Importance of understanding familial dynamics and their impact on transgender individuals' well-being: Understanding familial dynamics and their impact on transgender individuals' well-being is crucial for several reasons:

Supportive families as protective factors: Familial acceptance and support have been found to be associated with positive mental health outcomes and increased resilience among transgender individuals. Recognizing the role of families in promoting well-being allows for the development of interventions and support systems that foster acceptance and minimize negative outcomes.

Addressing mental health disparities: Transgender individuals experience disproportionately higher rates of mental health challenges compared to the general population. By understanding familial dynamics and their influence on mental well-being, interventions can be designed to enhance family support, reduce stigma, and address mental health disparities among transgender individuals. Holistic approach to care: Recognizing the impact of familial acceptance and support contributes to a holistic understanding of transgender individuals' well-being. Mental health professionals, policymakers, and support organizations can collaborate with families to create inclusive environments that foster positive mental health outcomes for transgender individuals. Advocacy and social change: Studying familial dynamics and their impact on transgender well-being provides empirical evidence that can be used for advocacy efforts. It can help educate families, communities, and society at large about the importance of acceptance and support for transgender individuals, thereby fostering social change and creating more inclusive environments.

V. Factors promoting familial acceptance and support:

1. Education and Awareness Campaigns:

1. Education: Providing families with accurate information about transgender identities, gender dysphoria, and the experiences of transgender individuals can help dispel misconceptions and reduce stigma. Educational programs can be developed to increase family members’ understanding of gender diversity and the importance of acceptance and support.

1. Awareness Campaigns: Raising public awareness through media campaigns, social media platforms, and community events can help promote understanding and acceptance of transgender individuals. These campaigns can highlight the experiences, challenges, and achievements of transgender individuals and their families, fostering empathy and support.

2. Professional Consultation and Support:

1. Mental Health Professionals: Engaging mental health professionals with expertise in transgender issues can provide families with guidance, resources, and support. Therapeutic interventions can help families navigate their emotions, address concerns, and develop healthy coping strategies to support their transgender family member.

1. Support Groups: Connecting families with support groups specifically tailored to the needs of families with transgender individuals can offer them a supportive network. These groups can provide a safe space for sharing experiences, seeking advice, and building relationships with others who are going through similar journeys.

3. Peer and Community Support:

1. Parent and Family Support Networks: Establishing networks that connect parents and families of transgender individuals can provide a valuable source of support. These networks allow families to share experiences, exchange information, and receive emotional support from others who have navigated similar situations.

1. Community Organizations: Collaborating with community organizations that advocate for transgender rights and provide support services can connect families with

additional resources, guidance, and a sense of community. These organizations may offer workshops, educational materials, and counseling services to families. Positive Role Models and Personal Stories: Visibility and Representation: Highlighting positive stories and experiences of transgender individuals and their families can serve as powerful tools for fostering acceptance. Sharing narratives of families who have embraced and supported their transgender loved ones can inspire and educate others, challenging negative stereotypes and fostering understanding. Media Representation: Encouraging accurate and positive media representation of transgender individuals and their families can help reshape societal attitudes. Positive portrayals in movies, TV shows, documentaries, and other forms of media can promote acceptance and humanize the transgender experience.

1. Legal Protections and Rights:

Advocacy for Legal Protections: Working toward legal protections and rights for transgender individuals can contribute to creating a supportive environment within families. Legal recognition, anti-discrimination laws, and policies that safeguard transgender rights can positively influence family attitudes and acceptance.

It is worth noting that successful strategies for fostering familial acceptance and support may vary depending on cultural, societal, and individual factors. Tailoring interventions to the specific needs and contexts of each family is essential for promoting long-term acceptance and support.

VI. Various rights for trans-genders in india

Since time immemorial, the transgender community has faced harassment and violence. Because their gender was not recognised, they were subjected to gender discrimination. Furthermore, they were denied access to public services as well as the ability to educate and earn. To address these issues, the Supreme Court recognised them in the case of National Legal Services Authority v. Union of India, and the transgender person protection bill , 2019, recognises their rights, which are as follows:

1. Right to not get discriminated- Under articles 14, 15, 16, and 21 of the constitution, transgender people have the right not to be discriminated against because of their gender. Furthermore, according to article 19(1)(a), “there shall be no restriction on one’s personal appearance and the choice of dress on the basis of restriction imposed under article 19(2) of the constitution”.

1. Right to educate- Education is as important for third gender as it is for male and female students, but the societal stigma faced by transgender people deters their interest and fosters a sense of entitlement among them. Transgender students are frequently denied admission to educational institutions because their gender identities are not recognised; thus, the Transgender Person Protection of Rights Act of 2019 requires government educational institutions must provide facilities such as education, recreation, and sports to Hijras or transgender community without discrimination.

1. Right to get employed- Transgender people have faced workplace discrimination in the form of refusal to hire, harassment, and privacy violations, resulting in unemployment and poverty to cover this discrimination. This act states that neither the government nor private entities may discriminate against Hijras in matters of employment, including recruitment and advancement.

1. Right to get medical aid- Transgender people are more vulnerable to diseases such as HIV, depression, and have experienced violence and harassment. The reason for this is that they do not receive proper Health Care, so according to this act, the government should initiate proper measures to provide Healthcare facilities to transgenders, including the construction of a separate ward and toilet for their community in hospitals. The Hijras should be provided with comprehensive medical insurance.

1. Right to access services which are for public use - They have the right to take or use any accommodation facilities, goods, and services that are intended for public use under this act.

1. Right to propertyand movement- The third gender has the right to reside, to purchase or occupy property, and to move freely.

1. Right to hold public offices- Previously, the Hijra community was unable to hold public office due to harassment, and they suffered from unemployment and poverty. However, under this act, they are permitted to hold public office, and anyone who refuses to do so will face a fine or imprisonment.

1. Recognition of identity- The court affirmed that there is special recognition of identity as a result of the NALSA decision. The Supreme Court has granted the third gender a separate identity, and proof must be obtained from relevant state officials.

1. Welfare measures- They have the authority to develop and implement various welfare schemes, measures, and programmes for social security, education, health care, and effective participation in society, and such schemes and measures must be supported by the appropriate state government.

1. Right to rehabilitate and residence- Under the relevant state government measures of rescue and rehabilitation, including the right of residence, can be taken, and it is mandatory for the third gender to cohabit with their family until the age of 18.

1. Offences and penalties- According to this act, anyone who commits any kind of violence or harassment against the transgender community or denies them access to public services will be punished with a fine and imprisonment ranging from 6 months to 2 years.

VII. Legal aids of trans-genders

Constitution of India- The preamble to India's constitution, which guarantees all citizens justice, social, economic, political, and social equality. As a result of the Indian state's earlier policies that recognised only two genders, male and female, and being an Indian citizen, transgender rights were denied. These rights include the right to own property, the right to vote, the right to claim formal identity via a passport, and the right to marry, among many others. Not only were these rights denied to transgender people, but they were also denied the right to health, education, and employment, so on. The basic rights given under Article 14, 15, 16 and 21 were also deprived for the ‘third gender’. But through the NALSA Judgment. These basic rights were extended to this gender also. This article focuses on equality before the law and equal protection under the law within India's borders. This category clearly falls within the expression "person" so transgenders are protected under the Indian Constitution because the term "person" includes transgenders in all aspects of state activity.

• Article 15- This article addresses the prohibition of discrimination on the basis of religion, caste, race, gender, or place of birth. Transgender people are included in this article because they are people, and they have the right not to be discriminated against on the basis of the aforementioned grounds, as well as the right to protect their gender.
• Article 16- This article states that in matters of public employment, everyone must be given an equal opportunity. This article broadens the concept of sex, including 'psychological sex' and 'gender identity'. So, under this article, transgenders were given equal opportunity in public employment and should not be discriminated against based on their sexual orientation.
• Article 21- No one shall be deprived of their life or personal liberty unless they accept the procedure established by law. Transgender people have full rights to protect their gender and live with full dignity and liberty because they are recognised as the "third gender".

Immoral Traffic Prevention Act of 1956 - this legislation became gender neutral after being amended in 1986. Previously, this legislation only applied to male and female, and they were criminally subjected to arrest by police, but now it also applies to transgender people. The police now have a legal basis for arresting and intimidating Hijras or transgender sex workers. Right of Trans-gender Persons Bill, 2014- This bill was passed in Rajya Sabha and includes many programmes such as the establishment of institutions such as national and state commissions for Hijras or trans-gender rights. This bill includes corrective measures to prevent discrimination.

The Transgender Person Protection Act, 2019- The act was passed to protect the rights of transgender people. This bill prohibits discrimination against the Hijras community in education, employment, housing, healthcare, and all other services. Though this bill recognises the right to self-perception of gender identity, it requires the district magistrate to issue a certificate of identity, and on the basis of that certificate, every person will be recognised as transgender. It also criminalises begging and requires minor transgender people under the age of 18 to live with their birth family.

VIII. Conclusion

The study concludes that transgender persons have historically faced social exclusion, discrimination, and denial of fundamental human rights despite being an integral part of society. For centuries, rigid gender norms and societal prejudices have marginalized the transgender community, depriving them of equal opportunities in education, employment, healthcare, housing, and public life. Although constitutional guarantees of equality and dignity apply to all individuals, transgender persons have often been denied the practical realization of these rights.

Significant progress has been made through judicial interventions and governmental initiatives aimed at recognizing and protecting the rights of transgender persons. Landmark legal developments, including the recognition of transgender individuals as the "third gender" and the decriminalization of consensual same-sex relationships, have marked important milestones in the struggle for equality and social justice. These measures have strengthened the legal foundation for protecting transgender rights and promoting inclusivity.

However, legal recognition alone is insufficient to eliminate the deep-rooted social stigma and discrimination that transgender persons continue to experience. Social attitudes, cultural prejudices, and orthodox beliefs remain significant barriers to their full participation in society. Many transgender individuals continue to face challenges such as family rejection, social isolation, economic insecurity, and mental health concerns arising from discrimination and exclusion.

The study further highlights the crucial role of family acceptance and social support in enhancing the well-being and mental health of transgender persons. Supportive family environments, community awareness, educational initiatives, and effective legal safeguards can significantly contribute to reducing stigma and improving the quality of life of transgender individuals. Public awareness campaigns, inclusive policies, and equal access to opportunities are essential for fostering a society based on equality, dignity, and respect.

In conclusion, achieving true equality for transgender persons requires a collective effort from the State, civil society, educational institutions, families, and the public at large. Legal protections must be complemented by social acceptance, economic empowerment, and inclusive development strategies. A society that respects and celebrates gender diversity is fundamental to the realization of human rights and social justice. Continued research, policy reforms, and awareness-building initiatives are necessary to create an inclusive environment where transgender persons can live with dignity, security, and equal opportunities as valued members of society.

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IX. References

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1. Flores, A. R., Herman, J. L., Gates, G. J., & Brown, T. N. T. (2016). How many adults identify as transgender in the United States? The Williams Institute. https://williamsinstitute.law.ucla.edu/wp-content/uploads/How-Many-Adults-

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1. Testa, R. J., Habarth, J., Peta, J., Balsam, K., &Bockting, W. (2015). Development of the Gender Minority Stress and Resilience Measure. Psychology of Sexual Orientation and Gender Diversity, 2(1), 65-77.

1. UNDP India (2010); Hijras/transgender Women in India: HIV, Human Rights and Social Exclusion, Issue Brief, December 2010.

1. Watson, R. J., Veale, J. F., &Saewyc, E. M. (2017). Disordered eating behaviors among transgender youth: Probability profiles from risk and protective factors. International Journal of Eating Disorders, 50(5), 515-522.

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Footnotes

1. Author is an Assistant Professor at Department of Sociology, ODM College for Women, Hisar, Haryana, India.