Gender Dysphoria in Childhood and Adolescence

Transgender and gender nonconforming youth are an extremely vulnerable population presenting to mental health clinics; however, many mental health providers have not been trained to work with these youth and their families. This chapter will provide a comprehensive overview of the difference between sex assigned at birth and gender identity, role, and expression and discuss the prevalence rate of transgender and gender nonconforming youth. The writers also provide practical techniques that providers can use to assess gender identity, role, and expression, as well as methods to assist in making a diagnosis of gender dysphoria. Furthermore, the writers will review treatment options for gender dysphoria and the standards of care for medical and psychologic treatment for transgender and gender nonconforming youth. This chapter will also describe cooccurring mental health conditions commonly diagnosed in youth who meet criteria for gender dysphoria. Finally, this chapter will address protective factors for these youth, including the role of parental support.