This section of the site will focus on Family Issues, as the title says. This includes your parents and family if you're TS, being a parent of a TS, and also, especially, things to help the children of a TS. There is scant little information out there for TS parents, and what information and research I find will go in this section.
The kids were always my primary concern as I transitioned, and I continually try to learn and grow in my understanding of what they may be struggling with, and how this may affect them. Luckily I have two terrific kids that accept me very well, and do not seem to have problems with my transition. What I've learned, in a nutshell, is that the kids will be affected more by a bad divorce and fear of abandonment than your gender gifts, but more on that later.
Transition is different for every person, and it's impossible to say, "Yes, do this and it will be okay", and have that always be true for everyone. If anyone gives you advice like that, then take it with a grain of salt, and thank them for their help. There will always be well meaning friends that want to help you, I hope, but they can never truly know what you are experiencing. It's ultimately up to you to decide what is the best advice to take, or leave.
"Always bear in mind that your own resolution to succeed is more important than any one thing." - Abraham Lincoln
I'm not a therapist, a lawyer or a doctor, and this site is not a substitute for any of those three things. All I can do is relate my experiences to you, the things I have learned from others, and the things that have (and have not) worked for me. It is important to get professional help.
This is a page very much in development, so check back often for updates. Page updated March 23, 2003 .
Suggestions? Do you have something to contribute? Write Me at jenni at gender-id.com, and be one of the first! :)
Parenting Issues:
Resources for TG Parents, and for the Parents of a transperson.
The Kids:
Resources for transgendered kids.
The Needs of Children in Transgender Families:
Above all, children need to know that you are OK. If you are struggling and feeling like you might not win the struggle, don't do it alone. Get help for yourself. Your child will benefit from it too! Here are some more of the basics from therapist Cynthia Young.
Significant Others:
My thoughts, and resources on and for Significant Others.
