Family Processes and Relational Actions That Support the Well-Being of Transgender and Non-Binary Family Members: A Scoping Review

Abstract

The aim of this review is to identify detailed descriptions of specific family processes and relational actions that contribute to and support well-being in transgender and non-binary (TGNB) family members. A scoping review was conducted using the Arksey and O'Malley framework and PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Five databases (APA PsycINFO, MEDLINE, Web of Science, Scopus and PubMed) were searched for keywords relating to transgender and non-binary identity, family processes and well-being. The search was run in April 2025 and yielded a total of 1359 studies; 152 texts were selected for full review and 68 articles were included in the analysis. Basic content analysis was used to synthesise the results. Sixty-eight studies were included in the final review and content analysis identified that families engage in three main family processes underpinned by specific relational processes; this appears to have a developmental trajectory for families adjusting to change. The three key processes are (i) actively seeking out education and support independently from the TGNB family member, (ii) acceptance and affirmation communicated through specific relational actions and (iii) engaging in advocacy on behalf of the TGNB family member inside and outside the family system. Findings suggest that future research should include TGNB adults and their family systems, and explore the perspectives of transfeminine family members, fathers as parents of TGNB people and TGNB people from diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds.