Coming Out Processes for Transgender People

This entry describes developmental processes of coming out for transgender people, how the process may occur with family members and friends, and how institutions may be involved in the coming out process. The entry first describes the definition and history of coming out. It then discusses the differences between coming out for young transgender children, transgender youth (ages 10 years and older), and transgender adults. It then provides a perspective on how transgender individuals first come out to themselves, then how the process may look with friends and family members, as well as specific cultural factors that may influence the process. The entry concludes by describing how workplace environments and schools can either enhance or inhibit the coming out process.