Psychometric characteristics of the Transgender Identity Survey in an Italian sample: A measure to assess positive and negative feelings towards transgender identity. Issue 1 (2nd January 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Scandurra, Cristiano; Amodeo, Anna Lisa; Bochicchio, Vincenzo; Valerio, Paolo; Frost, David M.
• Is Part Of: International journal of transgenderism. Volume 18:Issue 1(2017)
• Page Start: 53
• Page End: 65
• Publication Date: 2017-01-02
• Subjects: Internalized transphobia -- minority stress -- transgender identity -- Transgender Identity Survey; Gender identity -- Periodicals; Gender identity disorders -- Periodicals; Sex change -- Periodicals; Transgenderism -- Periodicals; Transvestism -- Periodicals; Gender Identity -- Periodicals; Transsexualism -- Periodicals; Transvestism -- Periodicals; 306.768
• DOI: 10.1080/15532739.2016.1241975
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1553-2739

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Transgender people experience systematic oppression due to societal endorsement of binary notions of gender. As a result, they are at risk for self-stigmatization via the internalization of negative attitudes about being transgender. Thus, researchers need instruments to assess the multilayered nature of transgender identity and its role in the experience of mental health and well-being. This study evaluated the psychometric characteristics of the Transgender Identity Survey (TIS) in an Italian sample of 149 transgender people. The TIS assesses levels of pride, shame, alienation, and passing in transgender populations, providing researchers and clinicians with an instrument that can evaluate both positive aspects of transgender identity and internalized transphobia. Confirmatory factor analyses showed that the original four-factor model had adequate fit to the data obtained from the Italian sample, with the exception of one item. Both convergent and predictive validity were assessed and partially confirmed, indicating that the TIS is significantly correlated with some of the enacted stigma and mental health outcome measures (perceived stress, depression, and anxiety). This study provides both clinicians and researchers with a tool to assess positive and negative aspects of identity in transgender populations.