Exploring trans youths’ future orientations as a product of experiences of dis/affirmation

Trans youths’ future orientations are important but seldom discussed within the literature. Compared to their cisgender peers, the developmental trajectories of this group are characterised by considerable change, and highly subject to prevailing political climates. Here, we explore trans youths’ future orientations as a product of present-day experiences of identity-affirming factors. Some 1679 trans youth aged 14–21 responded to two open-ended items asking them about their experiences of gender affirmation, as well as their future goals and aspirations. Data analysis adopted a procedure inspired by thematic analysis. The findings highlighted close links between future orientations and present-day experiences of affirmation. Where the latter were absent, participants appeared less able to envision positive future orientations beyond the fulfilment of the need for social and interpersonal acceptance. Gender-affirming experiences are not only integral to the well-being of trans youths in the present, but also facilitate their ability to envision a future to work towards.