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Split gender identity: problem or solution? Proposed parameters for addressing the gender dysphoric patient
Cynthia Osborne1, Thomas N Wise
1Sexual Behaviors Consultation Unit, The Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.
Journal of Sex & Marital Therapy
|March 16, 2002
Summary
This study explores pronoun and name usage for gender dysphoric patients. Clinicians should adapt their approach based on patient progress and social support for gender transition.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Psychology
- Gender Studies
Background:
- Working with gender dysphoric patients presents unique clinical challenges.
- The psychiatric literature lacks guidance on pronoun and name usage for these patients.
Observation:
- This article examines the complex issue of addressing patients with either their biologically congruent or preferred-gender pronouns and names.
- Clinical examples are provided to develop a template for pronoun use.
Findings:
- Pronoun and name usage may depend on the patient's transition progress.
- Social acceptance of the patient's gender transition by family and friends influences naming and pronoun choices.
- Therapists may need to alternate between biologically congruent and preferred-gender terms based on the context and audience.
Implications:
- This framework can guide clinicians in navigating pronoun and name usage sensitively.
- Tailored communication strategies are crucial for effective therapeutic alliances with gender dysphoric individuals.
- Further research is needed to establish best practices in addressing gender identity in clinical settings.