GD Abnormal Psychology

About how many U.S. adults identify as transgender according to the slides?

Over 1 million.

What older terms were previously used?

Gender identity disorder and transsexualism.

What should not be confused with being transgender?

Nonconformity with stereotypical gender roles.

What features are key in transgenderism according to the slides?

Strength, pervasiveness, and persistence of gender-incongruent behaviors.

For adolescents and adults, how long must symptoms last?

At least 6 months.

For adolescents and adults, how many criteria must be present?

At least two.

What is one diagnostic sign involving experienced identity and sex characteristics?

A marked difference between experienced or expressed gender and one’s own sex characteristics.

What is one diagnostic sign involving primary or secondary sex characteristics?

A strong desire to be rid of or prevent one’s primary and/or secondary sex characteristics.

What is one diagnostic sign involving characteristics of another gender?

A strong desire to have the sex characteristics of the other gender.

What is one diagnostic sign involving identity?

A strong desire to be a different gender.

What is one diagnostic sign involving social treatment?

A strong desire to be treated as a different gender.

What is one diagnostic sign involving feelings and reactions?

A strong conviction that one has the typical feelings and reactions of a different gender.

Do all transgender people receive this diagnosis?

No. Many more people identify as transgender than receive a diagnosis.

When is the diagnosis given?

When there is significant distress or impairment.

Do all people with gender incongruence experience distress?

No. Not all individuals experience distress from incongruence.

When is distress more likely?

When desired physical interventions, such as hormones or surgery, are not available.

What biological factor may be involved?

Genetics, including genes associated with estrogen reception.

What neurohormonal factor is mentioned?

Presence or absence of testosterone early in life.

What pattern is linked to more testosterone in females?

More masculine behavioral patterns.

What was found in males with early-onset trans identity?

They had less exposure to testosterone.

What do some studies show about hormone levels in trans youth?

Sex hormone levels were consistent with birth sex.

What social difficulties are commonly faced?

Discrimination and negative reactions.

What family-related stressors are mentioned?

Bullying or coercion against transitioning.

What community-related stressor is mentioned?

Interpersonal negativity in the community.

What public safety fear is mentioned?

Fear of physical harassment or assault, especially when using public restrooms.

What relationship-related issue is mentioned?

Isolation because of affected relationships with family and friends.

What mental health risks are higher?

Depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, suicide, and self-harm are 2–3 times more likely.

What medical options can assist with transitioning?

Gender-affirming hormone therapy and gender affirmation surgery.

What outcome is reported for gender affirmation surgery?

Studies show positive outcomes, with less than 1% regretting the decision.

What is the treatment goal for older children?

Accept and support the child’s preferred identity and help them deal with stressors related to transitioning.

What are examples of social support for children?

Using preferred names and supporting clothing choices.

What is linked to better mental health in socially transitioned children?

Support for their identity.

How do supported socially transitioned children compare to cisgender peers?

They show slightly elevated anxiety and near-typical levels of depression.