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Gender nonconforming and transgender children/youth: Family, community, and implications for practice
1Orvis School of Nursing, University of Nevada Reno, Reno, Nevada. aramburu@unr.edu.
Insights
Healthcare providers are seeing more gender nonconforming and transgender youth. A supportive, interdisciplinary approach is key for addressing the complex needs of these children and their families.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Adolescent Medicine
- Gender Studies
Background:
- The prevalence of gender nonconforming and transgender children and youth seeking healthcare is rising.
- This demographic presents unique challenges for healthcare providers and families.
- Foundational knowledge is essential for effective patient care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To equip healthcare providers with essential knowledge regarding gender nonconforming/transgender children and youth.
- To enhance provider confidence and competence in addressing patient and family needs.
- To guide clinical practice in supporting gender diverse youth.
Main Methods:
- Literature review utilizing academic databases such as Academic Search Premier, Cinahl, and PubMed.
- Inclusion of guidelines and standards from the World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH).
Main Results:
- The identity development of gender nonconforming children is variable, necessitating a "watchful waiting" approach with ongoing family support.
- Puberty blockers are recommended if gender dysphoria persists approaching puberty, aiding identity exploration and preventing unwanted physical changes.
- Initiation of cross-sex hormones may be considered for individuals at age 16.
Conclusions:
- An interdisciplinary approach is crucial for managing the complexities of care for gender nonconforming/transgender youth and their families.
- Referral to or consultation with transgender health specialists is advised.
- Creating a safe, supportive environment where patients feel heard is paramount for effective care.
Purpose:
The aim of this article is to provide foundational knowledge on gender nonconforming/transgender children/youth. With this knowledge, providers' confidence and ability to address the needs of patients/families can increase.
Data Sources:
Academic Search Premier, Cinahl, PubMed, World Professional Association for Transgender Health.
Conclusions:
The number of gender nonconforming/transgender children/youth presenting to healthcare providers is increasing. The situation presents a myriad of challenges to families. The identity trajectory of gender nonconforming children is variable, and watchful waiting while providing support to the child and family is advised. If gender dysphoria persists as puberty approaches, treatment with puberty blockers is recommended. This provides youth time to further explore their identity, while alleviating the distress of developing unwanted secondary natal sex characteristics. For these individuals, cross-sex hormones may be started at age 16.
Implications For Practice:
The complexities of providing care to gender nonconforming children/youth and their families are best met through an interdisciplinary approach. Consultation with and/or referral to specialists knowledgeable about transgender health care is advised. Beyond a basic understanding of gender nonconformance, of primary importance to patients/families is being heard and supported by their providers. Establishing a safe and welcome environment is paramount. Resources are provided.
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