Showcase Magazine Summer 2026 - Flipbook - Page 16
EQUALITY &
DIVERSITY
GENDER
DYSPHORIA
Gender dysphoria is a term that describes a sense of unease or dissatisfaction that an individual may
have because of confusion between their biological sex and gender identity. Our gender identity refers
to how we see and describe ourselves. Most people identify as either male or female based on their
biology; this is referred to as 8binary9 identities. However, some individuals may feel that their gender
identity is different to their biological sex and this is sometimes described as 8non-binary identities9 or
8transgender9. On the other hand, some people do not define themselves as having a binary identity as
they believe that the concept of gender is not relevant to their identity, or may feel they move between
genders. Whilst gender dysphoria is not always a negative, it can have a harmful impact on daily life
and an individual9s sense of self.
Causes and Symptoms
The exact cause of gender dysphoria is not known or
entirely understood. However, several factors may
play a role such as genetics, hormonal influences
during prenatal development, and environmental
reasons. At a young age, children may start to show
interest in clothes or toys that are often associated
with the other gender. Society tells us what is
considered 8boys9 and 8girls9 toys and clothes. As they
get older, this could cause severe distress as they
realise that their gender identity does not match their
physical appearance. This could lead to bullying or
harassment for being different from friends,
classmates and colleagues. Relationship difficulties
are also common; this can result in loneliness or
isolation from others.
Here are some of the symptoms of gender dysphoria:
Belief that their gender does not match with their
physical body
Desire to be rid of their genitals and other traits
Deep urge to have the sex characteristics of the
gender with which they identify
Strong desire to be treated as a different gender
Wanting to wear the clothing of the gender with
which they identify
Strong rejection of toys, games, and things that
are associated with their birth-assigned gender
Treatment
There are many different treatment options
available for gender dysphoria. For some,
psychological treatment is available through
therapy and counselling. For others, it may involve
changing their appearance to confirm their
identity.
Below are some treatment options:
Puberty blockers: These refer to hormones that
suppress physical changes of puberty. For
example, blocking the growth of breasts.
Hormones: Teens or adults may take the sex
hormones oestrogen or testosterone to develop
traits of the sex that they identify with.
Surgery: Some people choose to have a sexchange operation. Experts recommend surgery
only after age 18 and after the person has lived
in their desired gender for 2 years.
Overall, those with gender dysphoria may just want
to feel acceptance from others. Many support
groups offer advice and guidance and allow them
to talk to others with similar experiences. It is
important to spend time exploring your identity and
the ways of expressing it that feel right for you. Your
GP and the NHS is available for specialist advice
and support.
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Showcase Training 16
