Fact Check: The idea of transgenderism roots from mental illness and there is only two proper genders, ie male and female.

The Claim: "The idea of transgenderism roots from mental illness and there are only two proper genders, i.e., male and female."

Introduction

The assertion that "the idea of transgenderism roots from mental illness and there are only two proper genders" is a contentious claim that reflects a misunderstanding of gender identity and the complexities of human sexuality. This article aims to dissect this claim by providing a comprehensive analysis of transgender identities, the concept of gender, and the relationship between mental health and transgender experiences.

Background

Historically, transgender identities have often been pathologized, with early psychiatric classifications labeling them as mental disorders. The term "gender identity disorder" was used in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) until it was replaced by "gender dysphoria" in the DSM-5 in 2013. This change aimed to reduce stigma and focus on the distress associated with the incongruence between one's gender identity and assigned sex at birth, rather than labeling the identity itself as a disorder [3][9].

The World Health Organization (WHO) has also moved away from classifying transgender identities as mental disorders, reflecting a broader understanding of gender diversity [10]. The current understanding recognizes that gender identity is a complex interplay of biological, environmental, and cultural factors, and not merely a manifestation of mental illness [4][9].

Analysis

The Concept of Gender

The claim that there are only two proper genders—male and female—relies on the gender binary, a traditional view that categorizes individuals strictly as either male or female based on their biological sex. However, contemporary understandings of gender recognize a spectrum of identities beyond this binary framework. According to the Mayo Clinic, "the terms 'transgender' and 'gender diverse' cover a range of gender identities and gender expressions," which move past the idea that all people can be classified as only one of two genders [4].

Nonbinary, genderqueer, and other gender identities challenge the binary classification and highlight the diversity of human experience. As noted in the literature, "gender identity is the internal sense of being male, female, neither, or some combination of both" [4]. This understanding is crucial in recognizing the validity of transgender and nonbinary identities.

Mental Health and Transgender Experiences

While it is true that transgender individuals may experience higher rates of mental health issues compared to their cisgender counterparts, this is largely attributed to societal stigma, discrimination, and minority stress rather than an inherent aspect of being transgender. Research indicates that "transgender and nonbinary people have an increased burden of psychiatric problems compared with the general population" [2]. This increased prevalence of mental health issues is not indicative of a mental illness related to gender identity itself, but rather a response to the societal pressures and challenges faced by transgender individuals.

The American Psychiatric Association emphasizes that gender dysphoria is characterized by "distress arising from an incongruence between a person's felt gender and assigned sex" rather than the identity itself being a disorder [3][9]. This distinction is critical in understanding the mental health landscape for transgender individuals.

Evidence

Historical Context: The transition from "gender identity disorder" to "gender dysphoria" in the DSM-5 reflects a shift in understanding that aims to reduce stigma and focus on the distress experienced by individuals rather than pathologizing their identity [3][9].
Gender Spectrum: The Mayo Clinic states that "gender identity is the internal sense of being male, female, neither, or some combination of both," which highlights the inadequacy of a binary classification system [4].
Mental Health Statistics: Studies show that transgender individuals are at a higher risk for mental health issues, with one survey indicating that "40% of transgender and nonbinary people reported a lifetime prevalence of suicide attempts" compared to 4.6% in the general population [2][6]. This disparity underscores the impact of societal stigma rather than a direct correlation between transgender identity and mental illness.
WHO Classification: The WHO's decision to remove "gender identity disorder" from its list of mental disorders further supports the understanding that being transgender is not a mental illness but a valid aspect of human diversity [10].

Conclusion

The claim that transgender identities are rooted in mental illness and that there are only two proper genders is fundamentally flawed. It overlooks the complexities of gender identity and the significant impact of societal stigma on the mental health of transgender individuals. Current research and clinical guidelines emphasize the importance of understanding gender as a spectrum and recognize the distress associated with gender dysphoria as a response to societal pressures rather than an inherent aspect of transgender identity.

As society continues to evolve in its understanding of gender, it is crucial to foster an environment that respects and validates diverse gender identities, ensuring that all individuals can live authentically and without stigma.