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Social transition for trans young people is an evolving process involving changes in names, pronouns and appearance, according to new research. The research, led by Murdoch Children's Research Institute (MCRI), reinforces the need for families, schools and health care providers to support young people in finding the form of gender expression that feels right for them, rather than expecting a single gender affirmation journey.

Published in The Lancet Regional Health—Western Pacific, the study followed 234 trans young people, ages 8 to 17, for up to two years, making it the first prospective longitudinal study to examine how social transition changes over time. It explored how social transition goals changed across home, school, online spaces, friendships and extended family relationships.

MCRI researcher Will Conabere said the findings have implications for how young people were supported through social transition.

"Our study showed social transition is often an evolving process, with young people's goals changing as they develop and better understand themselves," he said. "Families, schools and health care providers should respond to each young person's individual needs, rather than expecting everyone will follow the same path."

The research found that younger children were more likely to add to their social transition goals over time, while trans boys were more likely than trans girls to meet their aspirations, highlighting the need for tailored support.

Young people from families with strong communication, support and problem-solving were also more likely to make the changes they wanted.

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