I responded to the homework post from week 4 (I think separate mechanism from the forum), and I noticed no one responded, so I'm posting here now. Sorry for the confusion!
1. One of my interests is in anxiety and depression within the transgender population. Two key behaviors that decrease anxiety and depression are 1) behaving in ways that are in alignment with one’s values (e.g., volunteering for a cause you are passionate about), and 2) having internal emotional and thought behaviors that are kind to oneself (less criticism and judgment). Within the transgender population, it is important that behavioral and physical expressions are in alignment with their gender identity. This might mean changing one’s gender expression, mannerisms, and physical treatments for gender dysphoria (such as hormone replacement therapy). It’s important to address any internalized thoughts and emotions about their gender identity that may be harmful (such as shame and internalized stigma). This may be done through avenues such as psychotherapy, finding community and social support, and for advocacy to raise public awareness to destigmatize transgender identities.
2. a. I could study the role of having social support on symptoms of anxiety and depression for transgender people. I could assess the quantity and quality of social support regarding gender identity and expression, and how many outlets in which people have to safely express their gender identities. This could range across family, friends, coworkers, and larger communities (online, spiritual groups)
b. I also study meditation and mind-body interventions, and I’m interested in how mind-body interventions may help transgender people with interpreting the signals of their bodies to aid gender expression, as well as increasing self-acceptance and kindness. I would measure body awareness and acceptance using mixed methods of qualitative and quantitative (self-report and neuroimaging) data.
3. Yes, we need multiple levels of understanding of the factors that influence health behaviors and health outcomes. We should understand which social determinants have the most impact on certain health behaviors for certain health outcomes. Also, even if interventions are targeted at the neighborhood, income, and/or education level, this does not necessarily mean that health behaviors are automatically changed as well. Health behaviors are rooted in social, cultural, and family structures, and they need to be observed and measured to see if interventions are changing them. Community engagement should also be used to see how people view their own health and have input on ways of changing environments and behaviors (if the communities want this).