Understanding Transgender Kids: A Biological Imperative

It's a deeply rooted societal belief in many parts of the world that transgender children can be 'created' or 'taught' to identify as a gender different from the one assigned at birth. However, the reality is far more complex. Transgender people are not made, but rather they are born this way. The term 'create' in this context is misleading and perpetuates harmful stereotypes. This article aims to shed light on this issue with a comprehensive look at the biological and psychological underpinnings of transgender identity, as well as the steps and conditions required for medical intervention in children.

Transgender by Birth, Not Choice

The notion that transgender people 'choose' their gender identity is a misconception. Being transgender is an inherent aspect of one's identity, much like being gay, straight, or any other sexual orientation. Transgender people experience a disconnect between their gender and the sex they were assigned at birth. This profound discomfort, known as gender dysphoria, is a powerful and compelling force that cannot be dismissed in the same way as a choice.

Why Does Labeling Transgender Kids Wrong?

When someone uses the term 'create' in reference to transgender children, they misunderstand the nature of gender dysphoria. It's not a choice or something that can be taught. Transgender identity is often deeply rooted in biological and psychological factors. Several studies have pointed to genetic and hormonal influences that can contribute to a transgender identity. For instance, certain genetic mutations can predispose individuals to gender dysphoria. These factors often emerge well before a child is even conceived, making the idea of 'creating' a transgender child a fallacy.

It's indeed akin to asking why someone is gay or why they are attracted to people with a particular hair or eye color. These are innate aspects of a person's identity, not something they have control over or chose. The notion of 'creating' a transgender child is often rooted in misunderstanding and fear, rather than factual knowledge.

Medical Interventions for Transgender Youth

When it comes to medical interventions for transgender children, the process is tightly regulated and geared towards ensuring the child's well-being. Medical intervention generally involves careful evaluation, parental consent, and ongoing psychological support. Here’s an overview of the steps and conditions for such interventions:

Eligibility Criteria:

For a 12-year-old child to be considered for medical treatment, they must meet several key criteria:

History of behavior that indicates gender dysphoria. Publication status as determined by a physician. Completion of 6 months of psychological counseling. Supportive parents. A letter of support from a mental health professional.

Only after fulfilling these prerequisites can the patient be assessed comprehensively for the possibility of medical intervention. This evaluation must confirm that the child has strong and persistent gender dysphoria, with no severe untreated psychiatric conditions. Furthermore, parental involvement and the child's agreement to ongoing psychological counseling are crucial.

Medical Interventions:

For children who are over 12 and at the beginning to middle stages of puberty, medical intervention may include:

Pubertal Suppressive Therapy:

This treatment stops the progression of puberty and has no permanent effects. The patient can resume normal puberty once the medication is stopped. The purpose is to halt the irreversible effects of puberty such as height changes, breast development, etc., and provide the child with a period to further consider their transition.

Cross-Sex Hormones:

At 16, if the patient is psychologically ready and with the support of their mental health provider, they can begin taking cross-sex hormones. If they are not psychologically ready, they continue with puberty-suppressing hormones.

Surgical Interventions:

Surgical operations are usually considered for those 18 years or older, provided they have a supportive environment and meet all other prerequisites.

Supportive Factors:

For children under the age of 12, the decision to introduce medical interventions is approached with caution. They may undergo gender clarification with a psychotherapist. Several factors are taken into consideration, including severe gender dysphoria, the physical safety of the child, factors like depression and suicidality, the family dynamics, and the school system and community support.

By approaching the issue with a multidisciplinary and holistic approach, the medical community aims to provide the best possible care to transgender youth, ensuring their emotional, psychological, and physical health are all considered.

Conclusion

The term 'transgender kids' being 'created' is a misunderstanding that ignores the complex and multifaceted nature of transgender identity. This identity is deeply rooted in biological and psychological factors, and it is not something an individual can choose or create. Recognizing and supporting transgender youth with appropriate medical and psychological interventions is crucial for their overall well-being.

References

[1] Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). American Psychiatric Association.

[2] Safer, M. D., Tuthill, E. C., Cestero, L. A. (2012). Ethical issues in treating gender nonconforming youth. Journal of Sexual Gender Minority Health, 2(1), 43-51.

[3] Wallien, M. S. C., Cohen-Kettenis, P. T. (2008). Gender-dysphoric children: a review of psychological, medical, and endocrine treatment outcomes. Journal of Psychosomatic Research, 65(4), 291-300.

Keywords

transgender kids gender dysphoria medical intervention