The experience of misgendering among transgender and gender diverse people

Misgendering is a common and distressing experience for many transgender (trans) and gender diverse people. Although existing research (e.g., McLemore, 2015, 2018) suggests that being misgendered is negatively associated with mental health, the empirical literature on misgendering is currently nascent. In the present study, we examined how trans and gender diverse people experienced and negotiated being misgendered. Guided by a constructivist grounded theory framework with a critical-ideological lens (Cresswell, 2007; Ponterotto, 2005), we conducted and analyzed 14 semistructured interviews using a constant comparative approach, including internal and external auditing and member check interviews. Participants' experiences of misgendering were influenced by several contextual factors, both temporary and long-standing, and in both personal and environmental spheres. Participants described and differentiated the experiences and effects of misgendering from accidental to intentional. Participants also described the decision-making process and response possibilities subsequent to misgendering-which could be influenced both by their initial reaction to being misgendered and by contextual factors-and could then correct or not correct the misgendering. Depending on how they reacted and responded, experiences of misgendering had short- and long-term consequences for many participants. Thematic results were integrated into a model of the experience of negotiating being misgendered. Participants' experiences indicate that misgendering is a significant minority stressor and highlight ways in which others can support trans and gender diverse individuals in navigating this experience to minimize the negative impact on well-being. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2026 APA, all rights reserved).