Public opinions and gender issue

OBJECTIVE: Gender is an aspect of the natural identity of a person that has been given ample attention in socio-cultural, psychological, and political studies worldwide. Transgender, which is a part of gender issues, is still lacking in information on definitions of transgender, its causes, society's perceptions toward it, and interpretations on transgender action. Transgender is an umbrella term that describes people whose gender identity or expression does not match the sex they have been assigned at birth. It is one of the most important signs of progress produced by scientific advancement in the field of medicine, which is a relatively new phenomenon. Due to the lack of research on transgender, researchers study this issue at the theoretical and public opinion levels and from different perspectives. The objectives are to provide insights into the landscape of gender issues, instill awareness among communities and make them understand the psychological pains and the emotional difficulties that the transgender go through. Transgender issues must be analyzed from the perspectives of humanity, ethics, and culture.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Data were gathered through open-ended interviews among nine participants. And to complement the data, particularly about the public's opinions toward the transgender, a focus group discussion (FGD) was held among four participants.

RESULTS: The findings indicate that the transgender community often faces social discrimination due to the social stigma towards them. Thus, the treatment should be more on psychological therapies, family education, community awareness, and social activism that are needed to realign the transgender to the right track.

CONCLUSIONS: This study provides insights into the landscape of gender equality and ways to support those with gender identity issues. Hence, this research carries values to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) in enhancing the policy on gender equality.