A New Study Discovered That Close To All Children Who Socially Transition Genders Continue To Identify With That Gender
One of the main arguments against allowing transgender children the right to transition genders is the notion of “detransitioning.”
The term “detransition” refers to when a person who has already transitioned genders decides to return to their assigned birth gender.
So, despite gender identification being a highly personal decision, governmental and societal pushback to children making this choice for themselves has stemmed from the idea that they could “change their minds.”
Yet, a new study published by the American Academy of Pediatrics has found that this occurrence is extremely rare.
The study analyzed over three hundred transgender children between the ages of three to twelve years old.
The children had already transitioned socially– meaning that they changed names, adopted new pronouns, and altered their appearance to “match” their gender identity.
The researchers found that only about seven percent of the over three hundred transgender children decided to detransition within the next five years.
Thus, nearly ninety-three percent of children remained constant in their socially transitioned gender identity.
The study was led by Kristina Olson, a researcher, and professor of psychology at Princeton. Olson described how a lack of proper research and data has not allowed for informed discussions surrounding transgender children.
Natasha – stock.adobe.com – illustrative purpose only, not the actual person
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“There is a lot of discussion about early childhood social transitioning and where that is a good or bad thing,” Kristina said.
“But despite there being a lot of talk about it, there is surprisingly little data.”
Now, this study may be the first step in putting to rest the detransitional argument against transgender children that is the root of anti-transgender legislation in states such as Alabama, Texas, and Arkansas.
Aaron Devor, a co-author of the groundbreaking study, underscored this sentiment.
“Only a small number will socially transition to another gender,” Aaron explained. “Only a small number of that small number will change their minds. And, most who retransition will do so before they have made any permanent changes.”
Another important note to consider is the familial support and guidance these study participants had throughout their social transition.
The researchers point out how not all trans children will receive the same level of gender reaffirming care– another essential component in ensuring the mental wellbeing of trans children.
To read the entire study’s findings, visit the link here.
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