A Comprehensive Program for Children with Gender Variant Behaviors and Gender Identity Disorders

Abstract

This article describes a clinical program designed to address broadly defined mental health needs of children who experience stress related to not fitting into normative gender types and argues for the need for integrated services that address the spectrum of gender variance. An array of services useful to children and their families is proposed. The article describes the clinical population served, common clinical and social problems, and a rationale for the interventions provided.

Keywords:

• gender
• gender identity
• gender identity disorder
• gender identity disorder of childhood
• gender identity disorder of adolescence
• gender variance
• transgender
• transsexual
• treatment