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Gender identity disorder is a conflict between a person's actual physical gender and the gender that person identifies himself or herself as. For example, a person identified as a boy may actually feel and act like a girl. The person experiences significant discomfort with the biological sex they were born.
See also: Intersex
Alternative NamesTranssexualism
Causes, incidence, and risk factorsPeople with gender identity disorder may act and present themselves as members of the opposite sex. The disorder may affect:
- Choice of sexual partners
- Display of feminine or masculine mannerisms, behavior, and dress
- Self-concept
Gender identity disorder is not the same as homosexuality.
Identity conflicts can occur in many situations and appear in different ways. For example, some people with normal genitalia and sexual characteristics (such as breasts) of one gender privately identify more with the other gender.
Some people may cross-dress, and some may seek sex-change surgery. Others are born with ambiguous genitalia, which can raise questions about their gender.
The cause is unknown, but hormones in the womb, genes, and environmental factors (such as parenting) may be involved. This rare disorder may occur in children or adults.
SymptomsSymptoms can vary by age, and are affected by the person's social environment. They may include the following:
Children:
- Are disgusted by their own genitals
- Are rejected by their peers, feel alone
- Believe that they will grow up to become the opposite sex
- Have depressionor anxiety
- Say that they want to be the opposite sex
Adults:
- Dress like the opposite sex
- Feel alone
- Have depression or anxiety
- Want to live as a person of the opposite sex
- Wish to be rid of their own genitals
Either adults or children:
- Cross-dress, show habits typical of the opposite sex
- Withdraw from social interaction
The feeling of being in the body of the "wrong" gender must last for at least 2 years for this diagnosis to be made. A history and psychiatric evaluation can confirm the person's constant desire to be the opposite sex. The person's partner choices may be same sex or opposite sex.
TreatmentIndividual and family therapy is recommended for children. Individual and, if appropriate, couples therapy is recommended for adults. Sex reassignment through surgery and hormonal therapy is an option, but identity problems may continue after this treatment.
Expectations (prognosis)Diagnosing and treating this disorder early can lead to a better outcome.
Complications- Depression or anxiety
- Emotional distress
- Feeling alone
- Poor self-concept
Make an appointment with your health care provider if you have symptoms of this disorder and want help, especially with anxiety and depression.
ReferencesShafer LC. Sexual disorders and sexual dysfunction. In: Stern TA, Rosenbaum JF, Fava M, Biederman J, Rauch SL, eds. Massachusetts General Hospital Comprehensive Clinical Psychiatry. 1st ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Mosby Elsevier;2008:chap 36.
Peralta L. Gender identity disorder. In: Kliegman RM, Behrman RE, Jenson HB, Stanton BF, eds. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. 18th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier;2007:chap 13.2.
Moller B, Schreier H, Li A, Romer G. Gender identity disorder in children and adolescents. Curr Probl Pediatr Adolesc Health Care. 2009;39:117-143.
What else can I help you with?
The psychological sense of being male or female is called?
The scientific term is one's sexual identity.
What are the three aspects of sexual self-definition?
The three aspects of sexual self-definition are sexual orientation (who one is attracted to), gender identity (how one identifies their gender), and sexual behavior or practices (what one does sexually).
What do all of the psychodynamic theories of gender development have in common?
All psychodynamic theories of gender development emphasize the role of early childhood experiences, particularly interactions with caregivers, in shaping an individual's gender identity and behavior. They also generally posit that unconscious processes and unresolved conflicts play a significant role in gender development. Additionally, these theories highlight the importance of internalized gender norms and societal expectations in influencing gender identity formation.
What do you call a girl that wants to be a boy?
A girl who identifies as a boy may use terms like transgender or a trans boy to describe their gender identity. It is important to respect their preferred gender identity and use the appropriate pronouns they choose.
What are the central issues associated with biological psychology in the context of human development and psychological function Which one of these do you feel is the most important Why?
Gender identity and heredity are two central issues associated with biological psychology in the context of human development and psychological function. Gender identity may be more important since it can help people who do not feel comfortable with their gender.
What are the current statistics on gender identity disorder in children and how do these numbers impact our understanding of this condition?
As of now, the prevalence of gender identity disorder in children is estimated to be around 0.5 to 1. These numbers suggest that gender identity disorder is not as rare as previously thought, leading to a greater awareness and understanding of this condition. This increased understanding can help in providing better support and resources for children experiencing gender identity issues.
What disorder did serial killer Buffalo Bill have?
In addition to be a murderous insane person, he clearly dealt with Gender Identity Disorder.
How do you get a sexchange?
First, you need to be eligible. You need to see a gender therapist and be diagnosed with Gender Disphoria (Gender Identity Disorder). After that, your therapist is your key to hormones and surgery.
Do animals suffer from gender identity disorder?
No. This is a mental disorder and animals do not operate on a sufficiently high enough level cognitively or intellectually to be plagued with such. EDIT: GID is not a mental disorder.
Why are some boys femanine?
Sometimes people suffer from Gender Identity Disorder. And maybe they're gay.
What is your gender identity?
My gender identity is insert individual's gender identity here.
What are the diagnostic criteria for gender identity disorder of childhood?
The diagnostic criteria for gender identity disorder of childhood, now known as gender dysphoria, include a strong and persistent identification with the opposite gender, discomfort with one's assigned gender, and significant distress or impairment in social, academic, or other areas of functioning. These feelings must be present for at least six months and not be due to another medical condition or external influences.
If you are a guy and think you are too hairy and not secure about your body hair but do have not had other symptoms do you have gender identity disorder?
No, you just are insecure about your body hair.
What is gender dysfunction?
Gender dysfunction is not a commonly recognized term. It is possible that it refers to difficulties or challenges related to gender identity or expression that can lead to distress or impairment in daily functioning. It is important for individuals experiencing gender-related issues to seek support from mental health professionals or medical providers for proper evaluation and treatment.
What is my gender identity?
Gender identity is a person's sense and experience of their own gender. Normally humans are able to identify with the gender they are born with and other times they are able to identify more with a member of the opposite sex.
Is gender identity considered a protected class?
Yes, gender identity is considered a protected class under many anti-discrimination laws, which means that individuals cannot be discriminated against based on their gender identity.
What is the difference between gender dysphoria and being transgender?
Gender dysphoria is a psychological condition where a person feels distress due to a mismatch between their assigned gender at birth and their gender identity. Being transgender, on the other hand, is when a person's gender identity does not align with the gender they were assigned at birth. Gender dysphoria is a medical diagnosis, while being transgender is an identity.
