Authors: Buckingham, P., Tollit, M. A., Wong, G., Wijesuriya, R., Hoq, M., Pace, C. C., & Pang, K. C.

Date of publication: 2025

Journal: International Journal of Transgender Health



Summary: In this Australian study researchers surveyed 482 young people aged 8 to 17 who were attending a gender clinic to better understand how they socially transition—that is, how they change their appearance, name, or pronouns to match their gender identity. Most young people said they wanted to make these changes: 96% wanted to change how they present themselves, 90% wanted to change their name, and 94% wanted to change their pronouns. However, fewer had been able to do so in all parts of their life. Changing appearance was more common than changing names or pronouns, and social transition happened most often with friends or online. It was less common at home or school, and least common with extended family.



The study found 129 different patterns of how young people socially transition, showing that each person’s experience is unique. Almost 9 out of 10 young people said they were worried about socially transitioning, with the most common concerns being bullying, discrimination, or negative reactions from others. These findings show that social transition is complex and influenced by how safe and supported young people feel in different settings.



Understanding these challenges can help families, schools, and healthcare services provide better support.



You can read the full study here