Secondary analysis of the 2015 U.S. Transgender Survey (n=27,715; restricted to those ever having a partner, n=24,736) using multivariable Poisson regression to estimate prevalence risk ratios for four IPV types (physical, sexual, psychological, transphobia-driven) based on transgender-specific correlates: nonbinary identity, outness to family and partners, perceived gender conformity, and social/medical/legal transition — stratified by sex assigned at birth.
Almost 60% of participants reported lifetime IPV. Being 'out' to a partner was the strongest predictor across all four IPV types. Perceived gender nonconformity was associated with 7–23% higher IPV prevalence in transmasculine spectrum and nonbinary AFAB individuals, but showed no association in transfeminine spectrum and nonbinary AMAB individuals. Nonbinary identity was linked to 23% lower transphobia-driven IPV in AFAB individuals and 12–16% higher sexual IPV in both AFAB and AMAB groups.
Cross-sectional secondary data from a non-probability convenience sample prevents causal inference and limits generalizability. Self-report measures and reliance on a single national survey instrument introduce potential misclassification. The dataset is from 2015, which may not reflect current experiences of transgender communities.
Clinicians providing gender-affirming care should routinely screen all transgender patients for IPV, recognizing that outness to a partner and transition status elevate risk regardless of sex assigned at birth. Universal patient education on IPV — not just targeted screening — is warranted in transgender health settings.
Explore related topics
