A qualitative metasummary of detransition experiences with recommendations for psychological support

Objective

The main goal of this article is to identify areas of psychotherapeutic work with detransitioners, that is, individuals who stop or reverse a gender transition, given the scarcity of information and resources.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review and metasummary of qualitative data published until April 2023. Data were extracted, grouped, and refined to conform meta-findings.

Results

The database search yielded 845 records, of which 15 comprising 2689 people who detransitioned were included in the review. A total of 582 findings were extracted, resulting in 34 meta-findings with frequencies ≥ 15 %. Two main thematic areas with several subthemes were identified. The theme “Gender transition” included “Perspectives” and “Emotions.” The theme “Gender detransition” included “Driving factors,” “Challenges” (a. Social and emotional difficulties, b. Lack of support and understanding, c. Negative healthcare experiences, d. Detransphobia, and e. Identity concerns), “Needs,” “Growth and evolution,” and “Identity and future.” Based on these meta-findings, we advance broad recommendations for supporting detransitioners in their various emotional, social, and identity needs.

Conclusions

Detransitioners are diverse in their experiences and perspectives and face significant challenges. Emotional validation with a focus on personal strengths and meanings, treatment of concurrent psychological issues, development of social networks, and support of identity exploration are key aspects of psychotherapeutic work with this population.