Israel Star Chronicle

What Causes Gender Identity Disorder?

The exact cause of gender identity disorder is not known, but several theories exist. These theories suggest that the disorder may be caused by genetic (chromosomal) abnormalities, hormone imbalances during fetal and childhood development, defects in normal human bonding and child rearing, or a combination of these factors.

How Common Is Gender Identity Disorder?

Gender identity disorder is a rare disorder that affects children and adults. It can be evident in early childhood. In fact, most people recognize that they have a gender identity problem before they reach adolescence. The disorder occurs more often in males than in females.

What Are the Symptoms of Gender Identity Disorder?

Children with gender identity disorder often display the following symptoms:

• Expressed desire to be the opposite sex (including passing oneself off as the opposite sex and calling oneself by an opposite sex name).
• Disgust with their own genitals (Boys may pretend not to have a penis. Girls may fear growing breasts and menstruating and may refuse to sit when urinating. They also may bind their breasts to make them less noticeable.)
• Belief that they will grow up to become the opposite sex.
• Rejection by their peer groups.
• Dressing and behaving in a manner typical of the opposite sex (for example, a female wearing boy’s underwear).
• Withdrawal from social interaction and activity.
• Feelings of isolation, depression, and anxiety.

Adults with gender identity disorder often display the following symptoms:

• Desire to live as a person of the opposite sex.
• Desire to be rid of their own genitals.
• Dressing and behaving in a manner typical of the opposite sex.
• Withdrawal from social interaction and activity.
• Feelings of isolation, depression, and anxiety.

How Is Gender Identity Disorder Diagnosed?

Gender identity disorder typically is diagnosed by a trained professionals. A thorough medical history and psychological exam are performed to rule out other possible causes for the symptoms, such as depression, anxiety, or psychosis. Gender identity disorder is diagnosed when the evaluation confirms the persistent desire to be the opposite sex.