Gendernauts in the Cistem - How Do Nonbinary People Handle Social Groups and Gender Minority Stress?

Abstract

This study explores how nonbinary individuals manage minority stress within the predominantly binary society of Switzerland. Utilizing social identity theory and minority stress theory, along with thematic analysis of focus group interviews with 16 nonbinary individuals and 14 social identity maps, the study found three concentric circles of social groups: circle 1 (family, partners, friends), circle 2 (coworkers, LGBTIQA+ communities), and circle 3 (the public, media, Swiss institutions). Participants primarily felt affirmed and supported by circles 1 and 2. They reported feeling less support from circle 3 and engaged in cautious social monitoring to anticipate potential discrimination. They found discrimination from close social groups (circle 1) more distressing than from emotionally distant ones (circle 2 or 3). Our study also examined strategies employed by nonbinary participants, including monitoring others and their trans-friendliness before coming out, educating others, taking actions to make institutions more inclusive, disengaging from invalidating individuals, groups, or institutions, and searching for affirmative environments. However, these coping strategies often entail significant mental workload and exhaustion. We conclude with participant-generated recommendations to enhance nonbinary inclusion in society, politics, and healthcare. The findings underscore the need for broader societal awareness and support to mitigate minority stress experienced by nonbinary individuals.