The research process starts off with realising that there is a problem or a gap in our understanding. For example, it has been realised that transgender people may have varying experiences when they take gender-affirming hormone treatment (GAHT), and so it would be helpful to isolate the effects of GAHT, so future trans people can be well informed. The AFFIRM Relationships studies will be designed to find out more so that we can start to fill this gap in our understanding. Designing this study includes working with transgender people and members of their social circle to ensure that the research is taking an appropriate approach. Once designed, the various studies are reviewed by a group of experts to ensure that they are ethically safe for those taking part and the research team.
Most studies require the participation of a group of people who have certain characteristics. For the first AFFIRM Relationships study, it is those who are taking gender-affirming hormone treatment and who are over the age of 16 years old. Those who are interested in taking part will be provided with written information on what the study is about and what is required of them when they participate. This will also be explained again by the research team, so if a potential participant has any questions, they have the opportunity to ask these to the team member. Those interested are then asked to confirm that they are fully informed about the research and they are happy to take part by signing a consent form. Whether or not someone takes part in a research study will not affect their access to care in any way
All AFFIRM Relationships studies provide reimbursement for taking part including the cover of transport to and from any visits. The specific amount can be found on the participant information sheet for that study.
Taking part in research means that you are helping to better our understanding of well-being during gender-affirming hormone treatment. Your contributions can lead to changes in policy and practice which may improve the quality of transgender healthcare.
There may also be benefits in terms of learning more about yourself, for example by taking part in studies which ask you to reflect on certain life events and your well-being.
Generally, there are no disadvantages to taking part in ethically approved research. Please ensure that you understand what is required of you before taking part to avoid being disadvantaged in any way. Studies which invite you to reflect on your well-being may lead to feelings of psychological distress. If you experience any psychological distress whilst taking part in any AFFIRMRelationships studies, please report this to the study team.
Yes, you can always change your mind about taking part in a research study, even if you have signed the consent form. Withdrawal from any AFFIRM Relationships studies will not impact any of the care that you receive. However, if you decide to withdraw from a study after your data has been collected and included in the analysis, it is unlikely that your data can be removed at that point.
When you take part in an AFFIRM Relationships study, you will be given a participant code that your data is attached to. If you disclose any information that might identify you during an interview study (for example your family name or address), this information will be removed to maintain your privacy. Any data that is published in journal articles or elsewhere will only include non-identifiable information that you have provided for the study.
When you have finished providing data for a research study, you will receive any reimbursement that you are owed. In some cases, the research team may send you a copy of the data that you have provided. If you have previously agreed, the research team may also store your contact details and notify you of future studies that you may be interested to take part in.
Does taking part in an AFFIRM Relationships study sound like something you would like to do? Please let us know by filling out the Contact Form. A member of the research team will then get in touch to tell you more about how you can participate and what is involved.
Do you have any other questions about taking part? Please ask us by completing the Contact Form.
You can also email the research team at affirm@amsterdamumc.nl
