Week 6 Flashcards
What does “intersex” mean?
Intersex refers to individuals born with physical sex characteristics (such as genitalia, gonads, or chromosome patterns) that don’t fit typical definitions of male or female.
How are intersex individuals treated in medical settings historically?
Historically, intersex individuals have often been subjected to surgeries and hormone treatments in infancy or childhood to make their bodies conform to typical male or female characteristics, often without their consent.
What is the current medical and ethical debate surrounding intersex treatment?
There is a growing movement against non-consensual surgeries and treatments in infancy, advocating for individuals to decide for themselves when they are old enough to understand their own bodies and identities.
What is the difference between intersex and transgender?
Intersex refers to physical sex characteristics that don’t fit typical definitions of male or female. Transgender refers to a person whose gender identity doesn’t align with the sex assigned at birth.
What is gender diversity in children?
Gender diverse children express their gender in ways not consistent with socially prescribed gender roles or identities, often showing preferences for toys, clothing, and activities not typically expected based on their sex assigned at birth.
How do transgender children typically express their gender?
Transgender children consistently, persistently, and insistently express a cross-gender identity, feeling that their gender is different from their assigned sex, and may show dissatisfaction with their genitals.
What is a common characteristic that differentiates transgender children from gender diverse children?
A pervasive, consistent, persistent, and insistent sense of being the other gender, along with gender dysphoria, is unique to transgender children.
What is gender dysphoria?
Gender dysphoria is the discomfort or distress a person feels when their physical body does not align with their internal sense of gender.
At what age do children typically begin to identify their gender?
Children usually start identifying with a gender around the age of 2
What is the prevalence of cross-gender behavior in children according to clinical samples?
Studies suggest that 5-12% of girls and 2-6% of boys exhibit cross-gender behavior, with boys being more likely to be referred for gender dysphoria treatment.
How can societal reactions affect gender diverse children?
Negative societal reactions to gender presentation can lead to functional impairments in social, family, and school life for gender diverse children.
What is the link between gender diversity and autism spectrum disorders?
Studies have found higher rates of autism spectrum disorders in gender diverse and transgender children, though no clear explanation has been found.
What is the “gender affirmative” approach in psychological interventions?
The gender affirmative approach supports gender diverse children without attempting to change their gender identity or expression, helping them build resilience and comfort with themselves.
What role does family support play in the well-being of gender diverse and transgender children?
Family support and a sense of a positive future are resilience factors that help protect against negative health and psychosocial outcomes for gender diverse and transgender children.
What is recommended for early intervention with gender diverse children?
Comprehensive biopsychosocial assessments by interdisciplinary teams trained in working with gender diverse and transgender children are recommended.
When should a child be referred for medical intervention related to gender dysphoria?
The earliest referral for medical treatment, such as puberty blockers, is recommended just before the onset of puberty if the child desires a different puberty than their assigned sex would typically experience.
Why is language important when talking with LGBT2SQ children and youth?
Using respectful and understanding language helps create safer and affirming spaces for LGBT2SQ children and youth.
What should you do if you are unsure how to address someone’s identity?
Ask the individual how they wish to be identified, showing support and respect for their identity.
What does the term “assigned sex” refer to?
It refers to the classification of a person as male, female, or intersex based on biological characteristics at birth.
What is sexual orientation?
Sexual orientation is a person’s emotional, romantic, or sexual attraction to others, often based on their sex or gender.
