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Pseudotranssexualism: iatrogenic gender dysphoria
Journal of Homosexuality
|January 1, 1981
Summary
A woman seeking gender reassignment developed gender dysphoria during therapy. Eroticized transference, particularly when her therapist became pregnant, triggered this shift, leading to active pursuit of sexual reassignment.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Psychology
- Gender Studies
Background:
- Understanding the clinical entities influencing gender dysphoria is crucial for individuals seeking sexual reassignment.
- This case examines a complication in intensive psychotherapy for a woman experiencing dissatisfaction with her biological sex.
Observation:
- A 32-year-old homosexual woman presented for depression treatment with a female therapist.
- Initially, she showed no gender dysphoria, despite occasional fantasies of impregnating her therapist.
- The patient's gender dysphoria emerged and intensified when her therapist became pregnant.
Findings:
- The patient began to consciously desire being male and devalued her homosexuality.
- During a treatment separation, she actively pursued sexual reassignment.
- Eroticized transference is proposed as a key factor in the emergence of her gender dysphoria.
Implications:
- This case highlights the complex interplay between transference dynamics and gender identity.
- It underscores the importance of considering eroticized transference in the psychotherapeutic treatment of gender dysphoria.
- Further research into the specific triggers and manifestations of gender dysphoria within therapeutic contexts is warranted.