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Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Mental Health
Published in: Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Mental Health 1/2015

Open Access 01-12-2015 | Research

Two years of gender identity service for minors: overrepresentation of natal girls with severe problems in adolescent development

Authors: Riittakerttu Kaltiala-Heino, Maria Sumia, Marja Työläjärvi, Nina Lindberg

Published in: Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Mental Health | Issue 1/2015

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Abstract

Background

Increasing numbers of adolescents present in adolescent gender identity services, desiring sex reassignment (SR). The aim of this study is to describe the adolescent applicants for legal and medical sex reassignment during the first two years of adolescent gender identity team in Finland, in terms of sociodemographic, psychiatric and gender identity related factors and adolescent development.

Methods

Structured quantitative retrospective chart review and qualitative analysis of case files of all adolescent SR applicants who entered the assessment by the end of 2013.

Results

The number of referrals exceeded expectations in light of epidemiological knowledge. Natal girls were markedly overrepresented among applicants. Severe psychopathology preceding onset of gender dysphoria was common. Autism spectrum problems were very common.

Conclusion

The findings do not fit the commonly accepted image of a gender dysphoric minor. Treatment guidelines need to consider gender dysphoria in minors in the context of severe psychopathology and developmental difficulties.
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Metadata
Title
Two years of gender identity service for minors: overrepresentation of natal girls with severe problems in adolescent development
Authors
Riittakerttu Kaltiala-Heino
Maria Sumia
Marja Työläjärvi
Nina Lindberg
Publication date
01-12-2015
Publisher
BioMed Central
Published in
Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Mental Health / Issue 1/2015
Electronic ISSN: 1753-2000
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/s13034-015-0042-y

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