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

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

What We Know

The claim that "transgenderism routes from mental illness" is a misunderstanding of the medical and psychological perspectives on gender identity. Historically, gender dysphoria, which refers to the distress experienced due to a mismatch between one's gender identity and assigned sex at birth, was classified as a mental disorder in earlier editions of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). However, in the latest edition, DSM-5, gender dysphoria is recognized not as a mental illness but as a condition that requires medical attention to alleviate the distress associated with it (source-1). Furthermore, the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11) has moved the classification of gender incongruence out of the mental health section and into the realm of sexual health, indicating a significant shift in understanding (source-1).

The assertion that there are only two proper genders—male and female—does not align with contemporary understandings of gender, which recognize a spectrum of identities beyond the binary classification. This view is supported by various studies and reviews that highlight the existence of non-binary and gender-fluid identities (source-4).

Analysis

The claim conflates historical medical classifications with current understandings of gender identity. While it is true that earlier psychiatric frameworks categorized transgender identities within mental health diagnoses, this perspective has evolved significantly. The historical review by Crocq details how the understanding of gender has changed over time, illustrating that transgender identities have existed throughout history and were often recognized in various cultures long before modern medical classifications emerged (source-1).

Moreover, the prevalence of mental health issues among transgender individuals is often linked to societal stigma, discrimination, and lack of access to appropriate healthcare rather than an inherent mental illness. A study analyzing mental health diagnoses among transgender patients found that while there is a higher prevalence of psychiatric diagnoses in this population, these issues are largely exacerbated by external factors rather than being indicative of a mental disorder inherent to transgender identity (source-3).

The reliability of sources discussing gender dysphoria and transgender identities is generally high, particularly those published in peer-reviewed journals or by reputable medical organizations. The American Psychiatric Association and the World Professional Association for Transgender Health provide guidelines that reflect current scientific understanding and advocate for the health and rights of transgender individuals (source-7, source-8).

Conclusion

The claim that "the idea of transgenderism routes from mental illness and there is only two proper genders" is False. Current medical understanding recognizes that gender identity is complex and exists on a spectrum, with transgender identities not being classified as mental illnesses. The historical context of gender dysphoria has evolved, and contemporary classifications reflect a more nuanced understanding of gender that respects individual experiences and identities.

Sources

1. How gender dysphoria and incongruence became medical diagnoses - a historical review
2. Gender Dysphoria - StatPearls
3. Mental Health Diagnoses Among Transgender Patients in the Clinical Setting: An All-Payer Electronic Health Record Study
4. Mental health in transgender individuals: a systematic review
5. Gender dysphoria
6. Causes of gender incongruence
7. History and Epidemiology - Psychiatry.org
8. Gender Dysphoria Diagnosis - Psychiatry.org