Suicidal Ideation Among the Two-Spirit Population: Results from the US Transgender Survey

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Abstract

Originating in Indigenous cultures, the term “Two-Spirit” refers to people who were born male, female, and/or intersexed who possessed both masculine and feminine spirit. In most tribes, they were considered neither men nor women; they occupied a distinct, alternative gender status. While the term has recently gained recognition within LGBTQ+ discourse and research, studies have yet to investigate potential variation in family and relationship dynamics of Two-Spirit people and how these experiences may place some at heightened risks for mental health issues and suicidal ideation. Using a sample of self-identified Two-Spirit respondents drawn from the 2015 US Transgender Survey (n = 1,965), we conduct logistic regression analyses to identify significant predictors of suicidal ideation. Our model identifies the following significant predictors: mental health problems as measured by the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K6), parental rejection, and marital status. Interestingly, sex assigned at birth, visual conformity with one’s gender identity, experiences of discrimination and harassment, and worries about rejection from friends were not significant correlates of suicidal ideation. Our findings underscore the need to situate the experiences of Two-Spirit individuals within a strengths-based framework, emphasizing resilience for health promotion and suicide prevention.

Authors

• Mindy Bradley, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville

• Maureen Outlaw, Providence College

• Brent Teasdale, Illinois State University

• Kim Menard, Penn State Altoona