Our Trans Children

Our Trans Children

Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG)

1998, PFLAG

12 Pages


From the Cover

Thank you for taking time to read this booklet, and for your interest in learning about transgenderism. Our intent is to provide an introduction to trans issues suitable for parents, family members and friends, as well as employers, counselors and anyone else interested, within or beyond PFLAG. We hope it may prove useful as well to those who are just beginning to question their own gender identity, and to assure them that there is support available to them in the larger community.

... Just as homosexuality erupted out of the closet and into mainstream consciousness in recent years, transgendered persons and issues are now attracting increasing media attention. We will address the similarities between gay and trans concerns as well as those issues unique to transgendered persons.


Table of Contents

Some Commonly Asked Questions about Trans People

What does 'Transgendered' Mean?
Who are Trans People?
What is the largest single group of Trans People?
What causes transsexualism?
What is gender dysphoria?
What is gender transition?
What is the Real Life Test?
What are the Standards of Care?
What is Sex Reassignment Surgery (SRS)?
Commonalties and Differences between Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity

What is the difference between gender identity and sexual orientation?
What is Gender Identity Disorder (GID)?
Is Gender Identity Disorder related to sexual orientation?
Do trans children exhibit gender variant behaviors in childhood?
Do gender variant children benefit from psychotherapy?
What common experiences to trans people share with other sexual minorities?
What common experiences do the families of transgendered persons share with those of other sexual minorities?
Issues of transgendered Youth

Psychological Issues
Family Issues
The Risks Faced by Trans Youth
Referral for Hormonal and Surgical Sex Reassignment
Trans People and the Law

Discrimination
Legal Protection for Trans People
Hate crimes
Re-documentation
A New Day is Dawning