Table 3.

Example of Phase II Inductive Coding

Individual Stigma Quotations	Subcategories	Generic subcategories	Main category
So that was, I knew something was up and as I say it, I didn’t learn to become a secret agent that left an alien territory. I sort of kept that other side of the self-hidden. Hidden away from everybody. Jackie, 77	Knew something was up Kept the self-hidden	Hiding as a response to constant early awareness	Constrained fearful approach to life
I kind of went into a cocoon then because by that time, my mannerisms, I couldn’t do like other children that make it work and really put on a good act, I just couldn’t. I couldn’t and I suffered for it a lot. And that’s how I just became just quiet. When we had family gatherings and stuff I would always make sure I sat somewhere and then I had done anything I had to do so I didn’t have to get up and walk. Because once I got up and walked, my ass was always high and deep. Jeannette, 55	Went into a cocoon Always aware of family watching
Yeah. I had already had people that I worked with, they could already see what was happening with me, though the choices that I made were really small. I’m often amused by what a big deal such small things are. Not to belittle that. But I think “wow, that was so fraught with fear to wear”–it’s funny to me, its often in a way too much about your clothing. Sigrid, 51	Fraught with fear	Hypervigilance of potential rejection
You know, when I was homeless, I was so afraid to tell them, ‘cause they kept saying, “Well why don’t you go to a women’s shelter,” “Well, let me give you this agency,” and they kept saying it, they kept saying it. There was this one time I was so desperately trying to save my hotel room, and it was a Friday, late, and it was like, “There’s nothing we can do,” and finally I just broke down crying. I said, “I—” and I was in the Baptist church, and I said, “There’s something I got to tell you. The reason why I’m not going to the shelters at night.” …. “Why didn’t you say something a long time ago?” And now I get you, and I’m going to talk to the senior pastor, because something needs to be done to help you.”…Rochelle, 51	Afraid to tell them Afraid to come out as trans and get needed services Fear to disclose