Gender identity disorder affects girls and boys equally, research shows

Experts previously believed that the rare condition, which causes young people to feel distress or discomfort about their gender and biological sex, occured more frequently in boys than in girls.

But according to research in the UK and Ireland by the Joint British Paediatric Surveillance Unit and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Surveillance System, equal numbers of male and female children are currently being treated at specialist clinics.

The ongoing study of four- to 15-year-olds has also found that 20 per cent have an Asperger syndrome diagnosis and 19 per cent suffer depression. Thirty per cent have a history of self-harm. 

Sophie Khadr, lead researcher for the project at University College London's Institute of Child Health, presented the findings at the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health annual conference this week.

“Our findings so far challenge the notion that gender identity disorder occurs more frequently among boys than girls,” said Khadr.

“Girls comprise exactly half of the 138 cases confirmed to date. However, a greater proportion of children presenting at less than 12 years of age are male.

“Our research so far corroborates the suggestion that gender identity disorder in children and young people is complex and may be associated with mental health problems like depression, anxiety and Aspergers or autism, particularly among adolescents.

“However, it is important to point out that many young people with gender identity disorder have no significant difficulties in these areas.”

Khadr added that the research had identified a delay of "several years" between when a child first experienced symptoms and when they saw a health professional.

“The earlier a child is seen, the more quickly we can make sure they get the clinical and emotional support they and their families need,” she said.

The study will end later this month when the 19-month observation period comes to an end.