Perceptions of Trans Dating and Romantic Partners: The Role of Gender and Transphobia

Abstract Using a scenario approach, two studies (total N = 400) investigate how straight cis people would react if they got flirtatious advances from an other-gender trans versus cis person (Study 1) and if their romantic partner came out as trans (Study 2). Both studies focus on gender differences and take participants’ level of general transphobia into account. Study 1 showed that, compared to women, men reported less positive affect, more negative affect, and more avoidance behavior when getting advances from an other-gender trans versus cis person. Study 2 showed that, compared to women, men reacted with less acceptance, more rejection, and less willingness to maintain the relationship with a trans partner. Mediation analyses verified that gender differences in both studies were mediated by general transphobia. That is, men reacted more negatively to trans dating partners and trans romantic partners because of their higher levels of transphobia. In all analyses, participants’ current relationship status was controlled for. The discussion centers on gender and transphobia as relevant factors in trans dating and relationship contexts.