Examining the Benefits of Cisgender Allyship Behavior for Allies of Transgender and Gender Non-conforming Individuals

Minority stress theory states that unique stressors contribute to more mental health disparities in minority populations, including among gender minority individuals (i.e., trans* individuals). Allyship has been proposed as a potential buffer for these negative experiences encountered by trans* individuals. Helping others has been shown to not only benefit the people in need, but also the person doing the helping. Thus, the present study examined how engaging in allyship behaviors supportive of the trans* community impacts cisgender allies’ health and well-being. Participants who identify as cisgender allies completed a baseline and weekly, online survey entries to assess allyship behaviors, physical health, mental health, and additional markers of functioning. Multilevel regression models were utilized to test the hypothesis that cisgender allies will report greater health and well-being on weeks when engaging in more allyship behaviors than is typical for them, especially when being an ally is an important social identity. Results indicate that allyship identity centrality moderates the relationship between weekly allyship behaviors performed and participants’ weekly levels of depression, anxiety and insomnia, psychological well-being, self-esteem, and educating others. Additionally, the performance of weekly allyship behaviors was significantly associated with participants’ weekly levels of depression, upholding values of justice, and educating others. Policy recommendations include group-based counseling sessions to facilitate identity development for allies, as well as to promote mental and physical health practices. This study informs future work that will benefit cisgender allies to protect and improve their health, so that they may continue to advocate for the trans* community.