The cultural underpinnings of transnegativity: Understanding the role of traditionality and modernity in the contemporary Chinese context

Prejudice and discrimination against transgender and gender diverse individuals are pervasive in contemporary Chinese societies. However, there remains a limited understanding of the factors and processes contributing to transnegativity in this context. Building upon theoretical and empirical literature suggesting that traditional beliefs in Chinese culture may fuel transnegativity, the present study aimed to investigate the influence of traditionality and modernity on transnegativity. Employing a two-wave longitudinal design, the study explored the mechanisms underlying the relationships between traditionality, modernity, and transnegativity. A total of 373 participants were included in this study. More than 40% expressed skepticism toward individuals who identify outside the traditional binary categories of woman or man. The results indicated that traditionality was indirectly associated with higher levels of transnegativity over time, mediated by a stronger endorsement of traditional gender role beliefs and the internalization of gender norms, after controlling for baseline levels of transnegativity. Similarly, the negative association between modernity and transnegativity was mediated by traditional gender role beliefs and the internalization of gender norms. These findings offer valuable insights for researchers and practitioners working to eradicate transnegativity in China. The study underscores the importance of considering the influences of traditionality and modernity within Chinese culture when designing educational programs and awareness campaigns to address transnegativity effectively.