Childhood abuse and depressive vulnerability in clients with gender dysphoria

Abstract

Background: Childhood abuse in the early lives of gender variant people has been under-reported, although higher psychiatric morbidity, particularly depression and suicidality, than in the general population is more widely recognised. There are increasing numbers of people seeking advice and treatment for gender dysphoria (GD) some of whose experiences of depression and childhood abuse may be additional treatment considerations. Aim: To illuminate the issues relating to childhood abuse, depression and GD via case examples underpinned by a summary review of the relevant literature, for their combined relevance to therapeutic practice and service provision. Methods: A review of relevant online literature was conducted and two case examples were developed subsequently to capture the core review themes from a practice perspective. Results: Nine studies met the inclusion criteria. Gender variant children and adolescents may experience abuse by peers and teachers, as well as parents and caregivers. Emotional abuse and neglect may have more adverse consequences than more active forms of abuse. Conclusions: This is an under-researched area, and inconsistencies of design, definition, measurement and controls were evident in the literature. While no clear association between depressive vulnerability and childhood abuse could be found, prevalence of such abuse was high. A case is made for clients with GD to have the opportunity to explore the influence and meaning of their adverse childhood experiences on their social and psychological development, and for additional training and education for practitioners.

Keywords:

• gender dysphoria
• childhood abuse
• mental health
• depression

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Malcolm T. Firth

Biography

Malcolm Firth is a Psychosexual Therapist in Central Manchester. Formerly he was a mental health social worker responsible for developing services in primary and secondary care health settings, with academic attachments to Manchester University and, more recently, Salford University. His range of publications mainly addresses practice issues in mental health, primary care services, psychosocial assessment, psychosexual therapy and childhood sexual abuse.