An Application of the Pantheoretical Framework of Dehumanization to Understanding Self-Injury Among Trans Young People: A Systematic Review

Nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI), the deliberate injury of one’s own body without suicidal intent, is notably prevalent among trans young people. This may be attributed to the unique adversities commonly faced by trans young people, including transphobic experiences, poor body image, and gender dysphoria. The Pantheoretical Framework of Dehumanization offers an explanation of why these adversities may drive negative outcomes, including NSSI, among trans individuals. In an application of this framework, we present a systematic review of relationships between transphobic experiences, body image, gender dysphoria, and NSSI among trans people under the age of 25. We searched PsycINFO, PsycArticles, MEDLINE, Web of Science, and ProQuest. Study quality was assessed using JBI Critical Appraisal Checklists. Our findings are presented in narrative synthesis. Eleven studies were included in the review. Consistent with the Pantheoretical Framework, our findings indicate that trans young people engage in NSSI to cope with transphobic stigma and feelings of gender dysphoria. Two studies found an association between NSSI and body image concerns, although a third study had conflicting findings. A lack of research in this area underscores the need for future studies to further explore the factors contributing to NSSI among trans youth and better understand the behavior. Transphobic experiences, body image, and gender dysphoria all appear to play a role in NSSI among trans young people. However, further research is needed to understand how these factors may work together to drive self-injurious behavior, as proposed by the Pantheoretical Framework.