Children with gender identity issuesLots of young children make choices which are atypical for their gender, such as boys who like to dress up as princesses or girls who like to play what are seen as traditional boys' sports. Some children adopt different names and insist on being treated as if they were of the opposite sex.
 Where this non-conforming behaviour is very marked for periods of time, then we could describe the child as having gender identity issues. Gender identity issues are usually apparent from an early age. A boy may choose to the wear the stereotypically ‘girliest’ dress, to almost ‘outgirl’ the girls, and this is quite usual. This type of behaviour often disappears completely as a child gets older, although this is not always the case. Children with gender identity issues are often perfectly happy and may express their chosen gender identity with some relish. There is nothing wrong - this is simply part of the normal range of human diversity.
Parents often wonder how to deal with this behaviour. When a child is young, it makes sense to simply let them be who they are. Let them choose to play as they want and encourage their friendships, just as you would with any child. Trying to make them change is pointless and can only make a child feel unhappy. Younger children who do not conform to gender stereotypes are often completely accepted by their peers, but older children are vulnerable to problems. Their difference, however it is expressed, can make it harder for them to be included. In addition, having interests that are more typical of the opposite sex (such as a girl liking racing cars or a boy liking ballet) can impact on a young person’s social life and friendships from the very start of school life. These young people need support in finding like-minded friends and, like many others, need their nursery or school to create a diversity-friendly environment in which they can thrive. The important thing is for parents to discuss any problems with their child and their child's nursery or school.  Why the mermaids? Mermaids is a support group and website for children and parents of children with gender identity issues
The link between gender identity and sexualitySome lesbians and gay men will have experienced gender identity issues at an early age, but many have not. Children who do not conform to gender stereotpyes do not necessarily become lesbians or gay adults (Wilson and Rahman, 2005). Some will grow up to be straight, some will be lesbian or gay, some will be bisexual and a very small number will be transgender (what is sometimes referred to as ‘gender dysphoric’). Gender dysphoria'Gender dysphoria' is a term used to describe children who are desperately unhappy with their gender. This is very rare. About 100 young people, are diagnosed with gender dysphoria every year, about five times as many boys as girls. Some, after counselling, 'transition' to their chosen gender. At first, this may mean no more than a change of name and clothes, but medical intervention is possible once a young person is old enough and has received counselling. If you have a child who is experiencing distress about their gender identity, perhaps at puberty, then there are sources of help. The first step would be to take your child to your GP. (Please note, though, that most children who do not conform to a gender stereotype do not need to go down the medical route at all).
|
|
|
Gender Identity |