Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Sexual refusal competence-the ability to refuse unwanted sexual acts-is central to sexual health and self-determination. To date, there has been little quantitative data available on trans and non-binary people in Germany. METHODS: The basis for this study is the participatory cross-sectional study "Sexual Health in Trans and Non-Binary Communities" (TASG). The online survey was conducted from March to July 2022. The analysis presented here included sexually active individuals living in Germany who were at least 18 years old and identified as trans and/or non-binary. A quantitative analysis was conducted. RESULTS: Of the 1421 participants, 67.7% agreed "somewhat" to "completely" with the statement that they found it easy to say "no" to unwanted sex (high level of refusal competence). These individuals reported higher sexual satisfaction more frequently. In addition, high refusal competence was associated with affirmative living conditions, that is, conditions that confirm and support one's own gender identity, such as living in one's gender identity, satisfaction with one's own body, respect for one's own gender identity, and social inclusion. Negative correlations were found with depressive and anxiety symptoms, internalized transnegativity, experiences of violence, rejection by sexual partners, and the feeling of having to prove one's gender identity. DISCUSSION: Sexual rejection competence is not only individually determined, but also linked to social, physical, and psychological factors. Health promotion and sex education should therefore pursue trans- and non-binary-affirmative as well as participatory approaches.