Study shows trans kids with family support have positive mental health
A groundbreaking new study has found that trans children whose families help with their transition have positive mental health outcomes.
The study by the University of Washington, is the first of its kind to look at trans children in the US on a long-term basis.
The researchers found that long-held assumptions about the mental health of young trans people were wrong.
High suicide and self-harm rates among trans children were not linked to their gender identity, the study found.
Looking at 73 pre-pubescent kids aged 3-12, the study considered that they had “socially transitioned”.
As well as changing pronouns, the kids had changed names and the way they dressed.
The study found that the children had no higher rates of depression or anxiety than siblings, or cisgender children.
The study was published on 29 February in the Pediatrics journal.
It acknowledged that, although other factors were likely involved, positive mental health was probably linked to parental support.
