Gender identity change and mental health among U.S. youth ...

Gender identity development is a complex and dynamic process, particularly during adolescence, which is a period marked by significant psychological, emotional, and social change. This brief reports on research by PRC faculty scholar Stephen Russell and colleagues that investigated whether and how often gender identity changed over time among SGM youth, the implications of any changes in gender identity on mental health. They found that changes in gender identity were not uncommon, and changes in gender identity were not associated with depressive symptoms over time; differences in depressive symptoms across gender identity trajectory groups were driven by experiences of victimization. These findings suggest that policies and educational practices should acknowledge that gender identity exploration is a normal aspect of adolescent development by promoting affirming, inclusive environments where youth feel safe to express their identities without stigma or punishment. ...