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Gender identity development in adolescence
Thomas D Steensma1, Baudewijntje P C Kreukels, Annelou L C de Vries
1Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands. t.steensma@vumc.nl
Hormones and Behavior
|September 4, 2013
Summary
Adolescent gender identity development is complex, influenced by psychosocial and biological factors. Puberty and social changes during adolescence appear critical for developing non-normative gender identities.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Endocrinology
- Genetics
Background:
- Gender identity development is a key aspect of adolescent psychology.
- Understanding normative and gender variant identity trajectories is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline current knowledge on gender identity development in adolescence.
- To explore psychosocial and biological factors influencing gender identity.
- To highlight research gaps in understanding these influences.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing research on gender identity.
- Historical overview of gender identity concepts.
- Discussion of psychosocial factors (child/parental characteristics) and biological factors (hormonal, genetic).
Main Results:
- Individual psychosocial and biological factors influence gender identity formation.
- The complex interplay between these factors and individual contributions is poorly understood.
- Adolescence, marked by puberty and social changes, is a critical period for non-normative gender identity development.
Conclusions:
- Research on adolescent gender identity development, both normative and variant, requires further investigation.
- Adolescence is a pivotal stage for the emergence of gender identity.
- Further research should explore the intricate interactions of factors shaping gender identity.
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