Trauma and Gender Dysphoria (GD): What is Real Gender-Affirming Treatment?
Understanding Complex Trauma
Complex trauma often refers to the experiences of repeated, long-term traumatic events, often starting in early childhood or adolescence, and usually involving close relationships with caregivers. Sometimes all of this is preceded by the death of a caregiver or abandonment. These traumatic experiences can profoundly affect a person's development and mental health.
Gender Dysphoria and Mental Health
Children and teens with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are more likely to experience gender dysphoria. Those with ASD might be less aware of social norms about gender, leading them to express their gender variance more freely. Their rigid thinking could also make them interpret mild gender nonconformity as more significant.
In a study involving 95 transgender individuals, all participants experienced significant levels of gender dysphoria. The study found that 35% of participants had clinical levels of depression, over half had contemplated suicide, and nearly a third had attempted it.
Attachment, Gender Dysphoria, and Trauma
Onset and Persistence: Gender dysphoria typically begins between ages 2-4 and persists into puberty and adulthood in 2-20% of cases.
Attachment Styles: In the transgender group, 27% had secure attachments, 27% had insecure attachments, and 46% had disorganized attachments. High-risk families often have 40-80% disorganized attachments, putting individuals at risk for social and psychological issues.
Given the high exposure to trauma among those with gender or sexual minority status, it's crucial to address both traumatic experiences and gender dysphoria together to provide effective, culturally competent treatment.
Medical Treatment and Gender Dysphoria
Most gender-affirming treatments are medical, such as hormone therapy or surgery, both of which have irreversible effects. The truth is that there is no complete transformation from one biological sex to another, merely flawed cosmetic changes. There's a growing trend to skip mental health assessments before starting these treatments. However, considering trauma and mental health is vital from the start. This approach acknowledges that transgender individuals have diverse mental health backgrounds and trauma histories that require treatment.
Trauma and Gender Dysphoria Link
In some cases, sexual trauma might contribute to the development of gender dysphoria. Psychiatry and psychology are complex, and it's essential to consider each patient's unique circumstances. Ignoring potential links between trauma and gender dysphoria can lead to incomplete treatment.
Trauma Before Gender Dysphoria
Studies show that transgender individuals often have traumatic childhood experiences, including abuse by parents or caregivers. These experiences might contribute to the development of gender dysphoria as a coping mechanism. However, more research is needed to confirm these hypotheses.
Trauma During and After Treatment
Transgender and gender-diverse (TGD) youth face higher rates of abuse and rejection compared to their cisgender peers. They also experience significant stress due to identity rejection by family and society. Early and appropriate intervention can help reduce depression and suicidal thoughts, improving outcomes for these youth.
Gender Dysphoria and Trauma Treatment in Denver
It's essential to consider the role of trauma when treating gender dysphoria. A comprehensive approach that addresses both mental health and actual vs harmful medical care can provide better support for transgender individuals.
Call 720-577-5985 for a confidential 15 minute consult with your trauma therapist in Denver.
References
Attachment Patterns and Complex Trauma in a Sample of Adults Diagnosed with Gender Dysphoria - NCBI
Trauma and Transition Trajectories: The Risk of Caenisian Reversion - Psychiatric Times
Baseline Physiologic and Psychosocial Characteristics of Transgender Youth Seeking Care for Gender Dysphoria - PubMed
ADHD and Gender Dysphoria - ScienceDaily
