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Postoperative psychological functioning of adolescent transsexuals: a Rorschach study
Yolanda L S Smith1, Leo Cohen, Peggy T Cohen-Kettenis
1Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University Medical Center Utrecht, Rudolph Magnus Institute for Neurosciences, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
Archives of Sexual Behavior
|June 7, 2002
Summary
Adolescent transsexuals undergoing sex reassignment showed stable psychological functioning. Post-surgery Rorschach tests indicated reduced distorted perceptions and improved reality testing, countering fears of psychological decline.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Endocrinology
- Gender Studies
Background:
- Adolescent transsexuals often seek sex reassignment surgery.
- Psychological functioning post-surgery requires thorough assessment.
- Previous studies show mixed results on psychological outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the psychological functioning of adolescent transsexuals before and after sex reassignment.
- To investigate changes in perception and reality testing using the Rorschach Comprehensive System.
- To determine if sex reassignment leads to psychological deterioration or stability.
Main Methods:
- Utilized the Rorschach Comprehensive System for psychological assessment.
- Assessed a cohort of 22 adolescent transsexuals seeking sex reassignment.
- Collected valid Rorschach protocols from 19 subjects pre- and post-surgery.
Main Results:
- Observed an increase in X+%, indicating reduced distorted and idiosyncratic perceptions.
- Found little evidence of significant psychological deterioration in the group.
- Results suggest overall stability in psychological functioning over time.
Conclusions:
- Sex reassignment in adolescence appears to maintain psychological stability.
- Rorschach data suggests potential improvements in reality testing post-surgery.
- Findings align with previous questionnaire data, offering deeper insight into perceptual changes.