A study of transgenders in Kerala Extent of exclusion and their socio economic outcomes

Abstract

Transgender individuals in Kerala face persistent social, economic, and institutionalexclusion, which significantly influences their socio-economic outcomes. This studyinvestigates the extent, nature, and consequences of exclusion experienced by trans-menand trans-women across six domains: family, housing, education, employment, health care,and law and order. The study analyzes experiences of exclusion across multiple domains tounderstand their impact on the socio-economic outcomes of transgender individualsA quantitative approach was employed, collecting data from 351 respondents usingstructured surveys that captured experiences of exclusion at both access and functioninglevels. Domain-specific indices were computed to measure exclusion, while descriptivestatistics and chi-square tests were applied to identify patterns and differences betweentrans-men and trans-women. Socio-economic exclusions from family, housing facilities,educational institutions, healthcare institutions, employment sector, and law and orderinstitutions were analyzed to assess their impact on overall socio-economic outcomes.Findings reveal that trans-women experience higher levels of exclusion, particularly in themoderate to high range, while trans-men report relatively better outcomes in financial andasset ownership dimension and also in social networks and community inclusion. Theanalysis highlights the critical role of family, housing, education, and employment inmediating exclusion, and underscores how intersecting factors such as gender, and socialindicators intensify vulnerability.Importantly, in most domains, exclusion is more significant during functioning within thedomain rather than at the point of access. Factors such as social stigma, discriminatorybehavior by peers and officials, inadequate inclusive infrastructure, and limited legalrecognition contribute to these socio-economic disadvantages. In contrast, in the familydomain, exclusion is notably higher at the point of access due to prevailing social stigma.The study contributes to the literature by providing a comprehensive and evidence-basedunderstanding of exclusion among transgender populations in Kerala. It emphasizes theneed for targeted policies and inclusive interventions that address structural discrimination,enhance capabilities, and promote equitable socio-economic outcomes. The findings arerelevant for policymakers, civil society organizations, and stakeholders working toward theempowerment and inclusion of transgender communities.