Thread by @BPSSexualities

For #TransAwarenessWeek we'll be posting 10 #TipsForBeingTransInclusive for psychologists based on the British Psychological Society's guidelines for working with gender, sexuality & relationship diversity. bps.org.uk/news-and-polic…

Tip #1 Use language that is preferred by your clients, students, research participants etc. E.g. Use their preferred names and pronouns in person and, wherever possible, in documentation. Displaying your pronouns can also communicate that you're inclusive. #TransAwarenessWeek

Tip #2 Don’t make assumptions about a person’s gender, nor assume that their gender identity is ‘just a phase’ #TransAwarenessWeek

Tip #3 Support self-determination. Any exploration of a client’s identity should be on the understanding that trans identities are as valid as any other. Also, avoid assuming an outcome #TransAwarenessWeek

Tip #4 Challenge those who pathologise trans identities. Being trans is not classified as a mental disorder by the World Health Organisation & stigmatising trans people is harmful #TransAwarenessWeek

Tip #5 Don't attempt to change or suppress a trans person's gender identity. The BPS endorses the Memorandum of Understanding Against Conversion Therapy (Version 2) #TransAwarenessWeek

Tip #6 Reflect on your attitudes & competence. If struggling to act positively or within your skill set, consider appropriate referral & seek further supervision/training #TransAwarenessWeek

Tip #7 Take care that survey questions, forms etc. are inclusive and reflect gender diversity #TransAwarenessWeek

Tip #8 Make yourself aware of trans/LGBT organisations locally and nationally as they may be a valuable source
of information and/or support for clients. #TransAwarenessWeek

Tip #9 Educate yourself. It's not clients' job to educate you. Clients will elaborate individual meanings, but general understanding should be obtained outside of the clinical encounter. #TransAwarenessWeek

Tip #10 Be proactive in encouraging wider acceptance of gender diversity, which will ultimately lead to improvement of wellbeing for trans people #TransAwarenessWeek