Development and Initial Psychometric Evaluation of the Transgender Adaptation and Integration Measure (TG AIM)

Transgender individuals have a gender identity or expression that is not congruent with their anatomy (Bullough, 2000). Limited empirical data are available regarding the mental health and general well-being of the transgender population. In addition, few standardized measures have been developed specifically for transgender individuals. The main purpose of this study was item and scale development of a measure of adjustment for transgender adults, as well as the assessment of the internal consistency and validity of the measure. Responses to the Transgender Adaptation and Integration Measure (TG AIM) were collected from a sample of 108 self-identified male-to-female transsexual adults. Standardized measures of quality of life and self-esteem were also administered to participants in order to assess construct-related validity. Factor analysis of the measure identified four factors: Gender-Related Fears, Psychosocial Impact of Gender Status, Coping and Gender Reorientation Efforts, and Gender Locus of Control. Internal consistency for each of the four factors ranged from r = .59 to r = .81. Psychosocial Impact of Gender Status and Gender-Related Fears were positively correlated with self-esteem and quality of life. Coping and Gender Reorientation Efforts were significantly correlated to both Psychosocial Impact of Gender Status and Gender-Related Fears. Preliminary psychometric analysis resulted in a 15 item, multidimensional measure with three reliable and valid subscales for use with male to female (MtF) transsexual adults. Further psychometric evaluation of the measure for use with other segments of the transgender population is needed. (C) 2006 by The Haworth Press, Inc. All rights reserved.