Repercussions of gender nonconformity
Children in the U.S. whose activity choices, interests, and pretend play before age 11 fall outside those typically expressed by their biological sex face increased risk of being physically, psychologically, and sexually abused, and of suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) by early adulthood, according to a new study led by researchers at Harvard School of Public Health (HSPH). It is the first study to use a population-based sample to look at gender nonconformity as a risk factor for abuse. The study was published online Feb. 20 and will appear in the March 2012 print issue of Pediatrics. Parents need to be aware that discrimination against gender nonconformity affects one in 10 kids, affects kids at a very young age, and has lasting impacts on health. — Andrea Roberts “The abuse we examined was mostly perpetrated by parents or other adults in the home. Parents need to be aware that discrimination against gender...