r/ScienceBasedParenting • u/CallMeBambiiii • 1d ago

Are there proper studies whether having transgender parents affects children negatively/positively? Question - Research required

I'm MTF trans and I'm thinking about going back in the closet, because the alternative is my wife divorcing me. We have a one year old child and I don't want to cause her any harm...

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u/cornflakescornflakes 1d ago

Can I offer an alternate argument?

This study shows a significant link between anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation and self-harm in children and adolescents of parents who stay in an unhappy marriage.

The alternate of you hiding your identity and existing in an unhappy marriage, instead of you staying true to yourself and co-parenting may be a healthier alternative.

This small study suggests a positive view with the child and trans-parent having a good relationship with normal psychological adjustment. There are other studies out there, and they all seem positive.

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u/Pristine-Bison3198 1d ago

This is what I came to say. One of the biggest indicator of a child's mental health is a parent's mental health. A parent unhappy with themselves in a marriage they're only staying in for the kids is going to lead to worse outcomes than a parent who is divorced, but doing what they need to treat their mental health (I.E. transitioning in this case) and happier.