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

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

Introduction

The assertion that "the idea of transgenderism routes from mental illness and there is only two proper genders, ie male and female" reflects a perspective that is increasingly challenged by contemporary research and understanding of gender identity. This article aims to dissect this claim by examining the historical context of transgender identities, the evolving definitions of gender, and the current scientific consensus regarding gender dysphoria and transgender health.

Background

Historically, transgender identities have existed across various cultures for centuries, often recognized in forms that do not conform to the binary understanding of gender as strictly male or female. For instance, many Indigenous cultures in North America have long acknowledged the existence of Two-Spirit individuals, who embody both masculine and feminine qualities [1]. Furthermore, the modern terms and meanings related to transgender identities emerged primarily in the mid-20th century, indicating that the understanding of gender is not static but rather evolves over time [1].

In the realm of mental health, the classification of transgender identities has undergone significant changes. The World Health Organization (WHO) removed "gender identity disorder" from its diagnostic criteria in 2019, recognizing that being transgender is not a mental illness but rather a matter of gender incongruence [2]. This shift reflects a broader understanding that gender identity is a complex interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors.

Analysis

The claim that transgender identities stem from mental illness is rooted in outdated medical models that pathologized gender nonconformity. Historically, diagnoses like "gender identity disorder" were included in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) and the International Classification of Diseases (ICD) [3]. However, these classifications have been criticized for perpetuating stigma and misunderstanding surrounding transgender individuals.

The current understanding, as articulated in the DSM-5, focuses on "gender dysphoria," which is defined as the psychological distress that arises when an individual's gender identity does not align with their sex assigned at birth [4]. Importantly, this diagnosis emphasizes the distress experienced rather than labeling the identity itself as disordered. The American Psychiatric Association states that "gender nonconformity is not in itself a mental disorder" [4].

Moreover, the assertion that there are only two proper genders fails to account for the existence of non-binary, genderqueer, and other gender identities that do not fit within the traditional male-female binary. Many cultures recognize multiple gender identities, and contemporary discussions around gender increasingly validate these experiences.

Evidence

1. Historical Context: Transgender identities have been documented across various cultures for centuries, indicating that the binary view of gender is a relatively modern construct. For example, the hijra community in South Asia has been recognized as a third gender for centuries [1].

2. Medical Classification Changes: The WHO's decision to reclassify gender incongruence under sexual health rather than mental disorders marks a significant shift in understanding. Dr. Lale Say from the WHO noted, "It was taken out from mental health disorders because we had a better understanding that this was not actually a mental health condition" [2].

3. Current Diagnostic Criteria: The DSM-5 outlines gender dysphoria as a condition characterized by significant distress rather than a disorder of identity. This shift in focus aims to reduce stigma and improve access to necessary healthcare for transgender individuals [4].

4. Diversity of Gender Identities: The existence of non-binary and gender-diverse identities is increasingly recognized in both academic and social contexts. The Human Rights Campaign states that "gender identity is not limited to male and female" and encompasses a spectrum of identities [8].

5. Mental Health Outcomes: Research indicates that transgender individuals often experience higher rates of mental health issues, not due to their identities, but as a result of societal stigma and discrimination. The Trevor Project reports that "LGBTQ youth who are accepted by their families are 40% less likely to attempt suicide" [5].

Conclusion

The claim that transgenderism is rooted in mental illness and that there are only two proper genders is not supported by contemporary research and understanding of gender identity. The evolution of medical classifications, recognition of diverse gender identities, and historical accounts of gender variance all contribute to a more nuanced understanding of gender. As society continues to evolve in its understanding of gender, it is crucial to recognize and validate the experiences of transgender and non-binary individuals, moving away from outdated and stigmatizing narratives.

References

1. Transgender history. Wikipedia. Link
2. Transgender no longer recognised as 'disorder' by WHO. BBC News. Link
3. Gender dysphoria (GD) | Definition, History, Symptoms. Britannica. Link
4. Gender dysphoria - Symptoms and causes. Mayo Clinic. Link
5. Transgender Youth Identity & Mental Health Statistics. The Trevor Project. Link
6. Gender dysphoria - Symptoms and causes. Mayo Clinic. Link
7. Gender dysphoria. American Psychiatric Association. Link
8. Transgender and Non-Binary People FAQ. Human Rights Campaign. Link