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LGBTQ+

(PS2-68) Exploring the Impact of Community-Based Stigmatization and Support in Navigating Transgender Identity and HIV-Positive Status: A Thematic Analysis

Friday, November 21, 2025
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM CST
Location: Elite Hall A, Level 1

    Author(s)

  • SS

    Sarah R. Sarandos, Other

    PhD Student, Family Nurse Practitioner (DNP, FNP-BC)
    Arizona State University
    Scottsdale, Arizona, United States

    • Co-Author(s)

  • JD

    Joseph Daniels, Ph.D.

    Co-Author
    Arizona State University
    Phoenix, Arizona, United States

Abstract Text:  

Background: The prevalence of HIV among transgender women is significantly higher compared to other sexual minority populations, with some countries reporting a risk increase of approximately 48%. The intersection of HIV-positive status and transgender identity presents specific challenges for this population, as data indicates these individuals often face higher rates of stigmatization and discrimination from their communities. Gaining an understanding of how trans women perceive these emotions can offer valuable insights into how this population manages the isolating experiences they face.



Methods: Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with TW living with HIV (n=21) in South Africa. The interview explored experiences with HIV and transgender, and how loved one’s support impacted these experiences. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed and analyzed using an inductive approach. Re-coding after initial analyses was performed in order to determine emergent themes. Themes identified were then grouped, sub-grouped into clusters, and further refined for culmination into the final thematic analysis.



Results: Three main themes emerged: Community Factors Surrounding Avoidance of Disclosure; Stigmatization versus Support Behaviors; and Peer Support and Resilience-Building. Participants discussed the mental strain felt between presenting as themselves out in public versus keeping their gender identity hidden to avoid being outed or discriminated against. Additionally, it was felt that because the community unfairly judged participants based on external gender identity/presentation, this isolated them from taking part in public events or seeking care. However, provision of trans-peer support networks gave participants the self-confidence to share their experiences with others like them, and increase their knowledge of how others navigate the duality of HIV-positive status and trans-identification. 



Conclusions: The presence of supportive social networks acts as a buffer towards how trans women cope with and understand societal stigmatization towards them. Although there is no expectation amongst participants that these stigmatizing events will cease, in communities where HIV education was provided to the public there was lessened occurrence of discriminatory events. This freedom of expression and empowerment through knowledge acquisition provides trans women with the opportunity to take control of their health independently and without discrimination. Future directions include how support vs stigmatization can impact personality expression in trans women with HIV (in both public and private domains), as well as assessing the role trans women peers play in establishing effective social support networks.