What does it mean? It is a condition where a person feels trapped within a body of the wrong sex. People who suffer from the condition are often referred to as transsexuals.
The condition occurs in people at a very young age. However, an inclination to dress up in clothes intended for the opposite sex or refusal to take part in typical boys' or girls' activities is common in very young children. Therefore, dysphoria often does not become apparent until young adulthood.
The Gender Identity Development Service, established in 1989 and based at the Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust, is the only service in the UK for young people up to the age of 18 who believe they may have been born the wrong sex. Treatment includes psychological observation, assessment and support, possible suspension of puberty to allow children more time to decide what they want, and hormonal medication.
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