Research Information
Why is the research being conducted?
This research is being conducted as part of the requirements for a research Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Psychology by Mr. Ashley van Houten. This study will build on previous research. Furthermore, the study develops a theoretical framework to assist our understanding of the experience of mental health distress in transsexuals after they have commenced living in their preferred gender. The results are expected to provide information that will guide the development of best psychological practice in treating transsexual clients.
Participants are eligible for a draw of 6 prizes if they wish to provide their names for a draw. The prizes are 6 beauty packs containing a range of beauty products each valued at approximately $100.00 AUD.
What you will be asked to do
If you agree to take part, you will be asked to fill in some questionnaires which will take about 60 minutes. The questionnaires are to be completed online and returned online. The instructions for each questionnaire are given at the beginning of each separate questionnaire. If you do not understand any of the instructions you may contact the research scholar Mr. Ashley van Houten on 0403194566.
The basis by which participants will be selected or screened
Participants will be included in the research if they are transsexuals who consider themselves to be living in their preferred gender. Transsexuals who do not consider themselves as currently living in their preferred gender will be excluded from the study as the study is focused on experiences of those who are living in their preferred gender. A person is considered to be living in his/her preferred gender if the person him or herself believes that to be the case.
The expected benefits of the research
It is anticipated that the research will be of benefit to the broader transsexual community by providing a profile of the Australian and New Zealand transsexual communities. There has been limited research on the transsexual communities in these two countries. Additionally, the results may assist in the development of a set of standards in relation to the psychological care of transsexuals and it may invoke further research in this valuable under researched area.
Risks to you
Some people may find filling in the questionnaires mildly distressing. The distress would possibly be similar to the distress you encounter when talking about your transsexual status to an understanding friend.
Most of the questionnaires have been used in many previous studies and are usually found to be quite quick and easy to complete. If needed, you may take a break from the questionnaire at any time. Please keep in mind this is not in any way a test. There is no right or wrong answers. Answer the questions honestly as they relate to you. You may take your time in completing the questionnaires.
If you at any time after completing the questionnaire feel distressed you may contact your local Sexual Health Centre, your local transsexual support group, the Gender Center nearest to you or ask your doctor for a referral to see a Psychologist.
Your confidentiality
Your confidentiality will at all times be respected. You are not required to provide your name or any other details that may identify you, No data will be collected that could identify you. All questionnaires are stored securely.
Your participation is voluntary
Your participation in this research is voluntary. You may stop at any time if you do not wish to continue.
Mechanism for distribution and return/web backend.
The questionnaires are available online where the participants can complete the questionnaires in comfort and in confidence.
Questions / further information
If you would like further information, please contact Dr Heather Green or Mr. Ashley van Houten. (Contact Us)
The ethical conduct of this research
Griffith University conducts research in accordance with the National Statement on Ethical Conduct in Human Research (2007). If you have any concerns or complaints about the ethical conduct of the research project you should contact the Manager, Research Ethics, Office for Research, Bray Street, Nathan Campus, Griffith University (ph 3735 5585 or research-ethics@griffith.edu.au.).
Feedback to you
As no identifying information will be collected, it will not be possible to give feedback on individual results. A summary of the results will be available from the research team when the research is completed. In addition feedback will be provided through national and international conferences, and the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender Press where appropriate.
Expressing consent
If you select I agree, you will be deemed to have consented to participate in the research. Please print this sheet and retain it for your reference. To continue with the questionnaires please tick the box “I Agree” that says you have read this information sheet, understand what it says, and agree to participate in the research. This will take you to the screen where the questionnaires may be accessed.
Terms and Conditions of Prize Draws
Terms and Conditions of Entry
- When you enter the competition, you accept these terms and conditions of entry.
- Members of the research team and their immediate family are ineligible to enter.
- Entry into the competition is by emailing your details on the separate form available once you have completed all the tests.
- The first six random drawn entries will receive each, a gift pack of beauty products valued at approximately $100 AUD each.
- The decision of the University is final and no correspondence will be entered into.
- The prize is not transferable and the beauty packs cannot be redeemed for cash. The prize is not refundable.
- The winner releases the University from any and all causes of action, losses, liability, damage, expense (including legal expenses) cost or charge suffered, sustained or in any way incurred by the winner as a result of any loss or damage to any physical property of the winner, or any injury to or death of any person arising out of, or related to or in any way connected with the University or the prize.
- Any winner drawn for the prize who is unable to fulfill all of these terms and conditions will forfeit the prize and another winner will be drawn.
- The winner will be notified by email, or phone by no later than a week after the draw.
- The competition opens to entries at 9am 18th September 2009 and the competition closes when the research is completed. The competition will be drawn at Griffith University, Gold Coast Campus. You do not have to be present at the draw to win.
- The prize will be posted to the winners after the draw if the winner cannot claim it in person.
If you wish to be eligible for the draw of prizes there is a separate form to complete at the end of all the tests.
Thank you for your time and for participating in this research.
Expressing consent
If you complete and return the questionnaires, you will be deemed to have consented to participate in the research. Please print this sheet and retain it for your reference. To continue with the questionnaires click on the “I Agree” link below that says you have read this information sheet, understand what it says, and agree to participate in the research. This will take you to the screen where the questionnaires may be accessed.