Caitlin Middleton, PhD

Project Title: Autism and Gender Identity Development: A Path Toward a Better Understanding of Transgender Autistic Youth
Institution: University of Colorado School of Medicine and Children’s Hospital Colorado

Project Overview

Summary: This study aims to better understand the gender identity development of transgender autistic youth compared to their non-autistic peers. The project will explore the patient population referred for gender-affirming care, analyze parent and youth perspectives on gender identity, and assess parental support. The goal is to identify the challenges faced by autistic transgender youth in accessing care and to inform future interventions and guidelines.

Methods: The study will be conducted in two phases. Phase 1 involves a chart review of patients seen at the TRUE Center for Gender Diversity to collect demographic and clinical data. Phase 2 includes qualitative interviews with gender-diverse youth and their caregivers to explore experiences and perspectives on gender identity development and care. Framework Analysis will be used to analyze the qualitative data.

Deliverables and Timeline: The study aims to produce a peer-reviewed manuscript, present findings at conferences, and develop training resources for clinicians. The timeline includes IRB submission, community collaborator meetings, and data collection, with the project concluding in August 2025.

Project Mentors and Contributors:

• Project Advisor: Laura Graham Holmes, PhD
• Co-Investigators: Lindsey DeVries, PhD, and Jonna Finocchio, LCSW
• Career Mentor: Natalie Nokoff, MD
• Community Collaborators: Up to four autistic, gender-diverse adults will be involved in refining methodology, recruitment, and developing the interview guide.