1
|
Mo K, Anagnostou E, Lerch JP, Taylor MJ, VanderLaan DP, Szatmari P, Crosbie J, Nicolson R, Georgiadis S, Kelley E, Ayub M, Brian J, Lai MC, Palmert MR. Gender diversity is correlated with dimensional neurodivergent traits but not categorical neurodevelopmental diagnoses in children. J Child Psychol Psychiatry 2024; 65:1223-1236. [PMID: 38433429 DOI: 10.1111/jcpp.13965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gender clinic and single-item questionnaire-based data report increased co-occurrence of gender diversity and neurodevelopmental conditions. The nuances of these associations are under-studied. We used a transdiagnostic approach, combining categorical and dimensional characterization of neurodiversity, to further the understanding of its associations with gender diversity in identity and expression in children. METHODS Data from 291 children (Autism N = 104, ADHD N = 104, Autism + ADHD N = 17, neurotypical N = 66) aged 4-12 years enrolled in the Province of Ontario Neurodevelopmental Network were analyzed. Gender diversity was measured multi-dimensionally using a well-validated parent-report instrument, the Gender Identity Questionnaire for Children (GIQC). We used gamma regression models to determine the significant correlates of gender diversity among age, puberty, sex-assigned-at-birth, categorical neurodevelopmental diagnoses, and dimensional neurodivergent traits (using the Social Communication Questionnaire and the Strengths and Weaknesses of ADHD Symptoms and Normal Behavior Rating Scales). Internalizing and externalizing problems were included as covariates. RESULTS Neither a categorical diagnosis of autism nor ADHD significantly correlated with current GIQC-derived scores. Instead, higher early-childhood dimensional autistic social-communication traits correlated with higher current overall gender incongruence (as defined by GIQC-14 score). This correlation was potentially moderated by sex-assigned-at-birth: greater early-childhood autistic social-communication traits were associated with higher current overall gender incongruence in assigned-males-at-birth, but not assigned-females-at-birth. For fine-grained gender diversity domains, greater autistic restricted-repetitive behavior traits were associated with greater diversity in gender identity across sexes-assigned-at-birth; greater autistic social-communication traits were associated with lower stereotypical male expression across sexes-assigned-at-birth. CONCLUSIONS Dimensional autistic traits, rather than ADHD traits or categorical neurodevelopmental diagnoses, were associated with gender diversity domains across neurodivergent and neurotypical children. The association between early-childhood autistic social-communication traits and overall current gender diversity was most evident in assigned-males-at-birth. Nuanced interrelationships between neurodivergence and gender diversity should be better understood to clarify developmental links and to offer tailored support for neurodivergent and gender-diverse populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kelly Mo
- University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Evdokia Anagnostou
- University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jason P Lerch
- University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Margot J Taylor
- University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Doug P VanderLaan
- University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Peter Szatmari
- University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jennifer Crosbie
- University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | | | | | | | - Jessica Brian
- University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Meng-Chuan Lai
- University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- National Taiwan University Hospital and College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Mark R Palmert
- University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Özel F, Stratmann M, Papadopoulos FC, Rüegg J, Bornehag CG. Gender-specific play behavior in relation to autistic traits and behavioral difficulties at the age of seven in the SELMA study. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0308605. [PMID: 39196870 PMCID: PMC11355531 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0308605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 07/24/2024] [Indexed: 08/30/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Childhood gender nonconformity is related to psychological distress and behavioral difficulties. Similarly, there is evidence for a link between gender nonconformity, or gender dysphoria in some studies, and autism spectrum disorder and related traits. Our knowledge on those associations mostly originates from clinical populations, which might lead to overestimation. Thus, this study aimed to assess associations between gender nonconformity and behavioral difficulties in a population-based study. METHODS In the Swedish Environmental Longitudinal, Mother and Child, Asthma and Allergy (SELMA) study, cross-sectional associations between gender-specific play behavior and behavioral outcomes and autistic traits were investigated among 718 children at 7-years of age. Play behavior was measured using the Preschool Activities Inventory; behavioral outcomes and autistic traits were measured with the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire and the Social Responsiveness Scale, respectively. Linear and logistic regression analyses were performed. RESULTS Higher composite play behavior scores (indicating either increased masculine or decreased feminine play behavior) were associated with increased autistic trait scores in girls (β = 0.13; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.00, 0.26). Furthermore, higher composite scores were shown to be associated with behavioral difficulties in both girls (β = 0.11; 95% CI = 0.04, 0.18) and boys (β = 0.10; 95% CI = 0.02, 0.19). Additionally, higher feminine scores were related with increased problems in peer relationships in boys (β = 0.04; 95% CI = 0.00, 0.07). CONCLUSIONS This study suggests a link between gender nonconforming play behavior and autistic traits as well as behavioral difficulties among children in a non-clinical population, which calls attention to the necessity of supporting children with gender nonconformity from early ages.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fatih Özel
- Department of Organismal Biology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- Centre for Women’s Mental Health during the Reproductive Lifespan–Womher, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- Department of Health Sciences, Karlstad University, Karlstad, Sweden
| | - Marlene Stratmann
- Department of Health Sciences, Karlstad University, Karlstad, Sweden
| | | | - Joëlle Rüegg
- Department of Organismal Biology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- Department of Health Sciences, Karlstad University, Karlstad, Sweden
| | - Carl-Gustaf Bornehag
- Department of Health Sciences, Karlstad University, Karlstad, Sweden
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
van der Miesen AIR, Shi SY, Lei HC, Ngan CL, VanderLaan DP, Wong WI. Gender diversity in a Chinese community sample and its associations with autism traits. Autism Res 2024; 17:1407-1416. [PMID: 38100234 DOI: 10.1002/aur.3075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2024]
Abstract
Emerging evidence suggests that gender dysphoria or gender diversity (GD) intersects frequently with autism spectrum disorder or autism traits. However, the magnitude and interpretation of this link continue to be debated. Most child studies on this topic were performed in clinical populations, and little is known about the generalizability of this co-occurrence to the broader community, especially to non-Western samples. Also, little is known about whether specific subdomains of autism are more strongly associated with GD. Therefore, we investigated GD and its association with autism traits in a Chinese community sample of 4-12-year-olds (N = 379; 51% birth-assigned girls). Parents provided information about GD characteristics using the standardized Gender Identity Questionnaire for Children and autism traits using the Chinese version of the Autism-Spectrum Quotient-Children. In addition, broader behavioral and emotional challenges were measured by the Behavior Problem Index (BPI) to account for psychological challenges other than autism traits. In this community sample of Chinese children, increased GD was associated with increased autism traits, even after accounting for the BPI. Of the four subscales, the Imagination and Patterns subscales in birth-assigned girls and the Imagination subscale in birth-assigned boys were especially associated with GD. These findings indicate that the association between GD and autism traits generalizes to a nonclinical, non-Western sample. Clinicians and researchers working with clinical as well as community children should thus pay attention to the co-occurrence of GD and autism traits, in and outside the West.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna I R van der Miesen
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sylvia Yun Shi
- Gender Studies Programme and Department of Psychology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
- Department of Psychology, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
| | - Hoi Ching Lei
- Department of Psychology, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
| | - Cho Lam Ngan
- Department of Psychology, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
| | - Doug P VanderLaan
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto, Mississauga, Ontario, Canada
- Child and Youth Psychiatry, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Wang Ivy Wong
- Gender Studies Programme and Department of Psychology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
- Department of Psychology, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Tadesse AW, Ayano G, Dachew BA, Betts K, Alati R. Exposure to maternal cannabis use disorder and risk of autism spectrum disorder in offspring: A data linkage cohort study. Psychiatry Res 2024; 337:115971. [PMID: 38788554 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2024.115971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Revised: 05/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the association between pre-pregnancy, prenatal and perinatal exposures to cannabis use disorder (CUD) and the risk of autism spectrum disoder (ASD) in offspring. Data were drawn from the New South Wales (NSW) Perinatal Data Collection (PDC), population-based, linked administrative health data encompassing all-live birth cohort from January 2003 to December 2005. This study involved 222 534 mother-offspring pairs. . The exposure variable (CUD) and the outcome of interest (ASD) were identified using the 10th international disease classification criteria, Australian Modified (ICD-10-AM). We found a three-fold increased risk of ASD in the offspring of mothers with maternal CUD compared to non-exposed offspring. In our sensitivity analyses, male offspring have a higher risk of ASD associated with maternal CUD than their female counterparts. In conclusion, exposure to maternal CUD is linked to a higher risk of ASD in offspring, with a stronger risk in male offspring. Further research is needed to understand these gender-specific effects and the relationship between maternal CUD and ASD risk in children.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abay Woday Tadesse
- School of Population Health, Curtin University, Kent Street, Bentley, WA, 6102, Australia; Dream Science and Technology College, Dessie 1466, Amhara region, Ethiopia; Department of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Samara University 132, Semera, Ethiopia.
| | - Getinet Ayano
- School of Population Health, Curtin University, Kent Street, Bentley, WA, 6102, Australia
| | - Berihun Assefa Dachew
- School of Population Health, Curtin University, Kent Street, Bentley, WA, 6102, Australia
| | - Kim Betts
- School of Population Health, Curtin University, Kent Street, Bentley, WA, 6102, Australia
| | - Rosa Alati
- School of Population Health, Curtin University, Kent Street, Bentley, WA, 6102, Australia; Institute for Social Sciences Research, The University of Queensland, 80 Meier's Rd, Indooroopilly, QLD, 4068, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Mittertreiner EJ, Ng-Cordell E, McVey AJ, Kerns CM. Research methods at the intersection of gender diversity and autism: A scoping review. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2024:13623613241245595. [PMID: 38661070 DOI: 10.1177/13623613241245595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
LAY ABSTRACT Research has increasingly focused on the intersection between gender diversity and autism. To better understand this literature, this scoping review systematically searched five databases for peer-reviewed literature on gender diversity and autism published between 2018 and 2023. Included studies (N = 84) were of English language, featured original qualitative or quantitative findings, and examined a psychosocial connection between autism and gender spectra variables. Most studies focused on measuring prevalence of autism among gender-diverse individuals. While the overall study rigor was acceptable, weaknesses in measurement, sample selection, and definition of key terms were noted. Promisingly, studies in this area appear to be shifting away from a pathologizing lens and towards research methods that engage in meaningful collaboration with the autistic, gender-diverse community to investigate how to best enhance the quality of life and wellbeing of this population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Alana J McVey
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Autism Center, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, WA, United States
| | | |
Collapse
|
6
|
Greene RK, Rutter TM, Phelps RA, Olsen EK, Harmon R, Moyer DN. Diagnostic assessment of autism spectrum disorder in transgender and gender diverse youth. Clin Neuropsychol 2024:1-22. [PMID: 38529904 DOI: 10.1080/13854046.2024.2331272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024]
Abstract
Objective: Higher prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnosis and associated traits has been observed among transgender and gender diverse (TGD) youth, and the number of TGD youth requesting evaluation for autism is growing. This study explored the demographic and clinical profiles of TGD youth evaluated in a specialty autism clinic. Method: Retrospective autism evaluation results for 41 TGD youth aged 5-18 years and 67 cisgender-matched controls were included in the study. Results: Approximately, half of TGD youth were diagnosed with autism (TGDASD+; n = 19 vs. TGDASD-; n = 22). There were no group differences in sex assigned at birth, gender identity, FSIQ, race, or ethnicity. Compared to TGDASD- (allistic) youth, TGD autistics had significantly lower adaptive functioning and were more likely to have an IEP eligibility of ASD. Anxiety and mood disorders were more common in TGD youth, whereas language disorders were more prevalent in cisgender controls. Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) was more common among TGDASD- youth (72%) than TGDASD+ youth (47%), though not significantly. Conclusions: TGD youth with school-based IEP eligibilities of ASD and lower adaptive functioning are more likely to be diagnosed with ASD upon medical evaluation. The combination of identifying as TGD and having ADHD may heighten suspicion for ASD. Asking about gender identity during autism evaluations for children middle school-aged and older is recommended.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rachel K Greene
- Department of Pediatrics, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Tara M Rutter
- Department of Pediatrics, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Randi A Phelps
- Division Psychology, Phoenix Children's Hospital, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Emily K Olsen
- Department of Pediatrics, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Raquel Harmon
- Department of Pediatrics, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Danielle N Moyer
- Department of Pediatrics, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Strang JF, van der Miesen AIR, Fischbach AL, Wolff M, Harris MC, Klomp SE. Common Intersection of Autism and Gender Diversity in Youth: Clinical Perspectives and Practices. Child Adolesc Psychiatr Clin N Am 2023; 32:747-760. [PMID: 37739632 DOI: 10.1016/j.chc.2023.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/24/2023]
Abstract
Autism and gender diversity often intersect. Many transgender youth seeking gender-related medical interventions are autistic. Clinicians serving these youth lack an autism-specific evidence base to guide gender care decisions. At present, care decisions are based on extrapolation of care models from transgender youth samples, generally. At this point, there is no evidence to suggest that autistic youth are likely to experience shifts in gender or gender-related medical requests, although this has been insufficiently studied. In this article, cowritten by expert clinicians and autistic gender-diverse collaborators, an overview of clinical care considerations and the current evidence base is provided.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- John F Strang
- Gender and Autism Program, Division of Pediatric Neuropsychology, Children's National Hospital, 15245 Shady Grove Suite 350, Rockville, MD 20850, USA; Center for Neuroscience, Children's National Research Institute, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC, USA; Department of Pediatrics, George Washington University School of Medicine, Washington, DC, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, George Washington University School of Medicine, Washington, DC, USA.
| | - Anna I R van der Miesen
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Location Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Margaret and Wallace McCain Centre for Child, Youth & Family Mental Health, Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Abigail L Fischbach
- Gender and Autism Program, Division of Pediatric Neuropsychology, Children's National Hospital, 15245 Shady Grove Suite 350, Rockville, MD 20850, USA
| | - Milana Wolff
- College of Engineering and Physical Sciences, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
8
|
Gratton FV, Strang JF, Song M, Cooper K, Kallitsounaki A, Lai MC, Lawson W, van der Miesen AI, Wimms HE. The Intersection of Autism and Transgender and Nonbinary Identities: Community and Academic Dialogue on Research and Advocacy. AUTISM IN ADULTHOOD 2023; 5:112-124. [PMID: 37346986 PMCID: PMC10280197 DOI: 10.1089/aut.2023.0042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/23/2023]
Abstract
Many transgender people are autistic. Community expressions of the autism transgender intersection abound. Some commentators have questioned the proportional overrepresentation of autism among gender-diverse people, suggesting these individuals may not be truly autistic or truly transgender. However, increasing evidence challenges assertions that deny the authenticity of co-occurring autistic and transgender identities. Specifically, research by authors of this article indicates autistic transgender people show neurophenotypes generally consistent with cisgender autistic people and implicit gender phenotypes consistent with nonautistic transgender people. This article features a dialogue between eight leading experts in the field of intersectional autism and gender diversity, including clinicians, researchers, community advocates, and experts who are themselves autistic transgender. Key topics of discussion included: how research findings on autism and gender diversity inform respectful and supportive responses to autistic transgender people; the benefits and harms of increased societal attention toward the autism transgender intersection; and research and advocacy priorities. The expert panel concluded the following: (1) it is important to respect transgender autistic people's wellness and resilience, while also acknowledging the pathologization and stigmatization they face; (2) autistic gender-diverse people are experts of their own identity and should be involved in all aspects of research and clinical care; (3) research is needed to understand the disparities autistic transgender people face; (4) attempts to restrict autistic transgender people's access to gender care are unsupported by existing research; (5) adult gender care may benefit from incorporating universal design principles and neurodiversity-affirming strategies to reduce barriers to care and improve clinician-client communication in treatment delivery and the informed consent process; (6) cross-cultural and cross-societal research will improve best care practices in diverse contexts; (7) research and advocacy must be inclusive across ethnoracial identities, including in leadership and perspectives represented; and (8) a life span developmental framework is needed for adult research in this field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - John F. Strang
- Gender and Autism Program, Center for Neuroscience, Children's National Hospital, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, George Washington University School of Medicine, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, George Washington University School of Medicine, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Minneh Song
- Gender and Autism Program, Center for Neuroscience, Children's National Hospital, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Kate Cooper
- Department of Psychology, Centre for Applied Autism Research, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom
| | - Aimilia Kallitsounaki
- Division of Human and Social Sciences, School of Psychology, Keynes College, University of Kent, Canterbury, United Kingdom
| | - Meng-Chuan Lai
- Child and Youth Mental Health Collaborative at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, The Hospital for Sick Children, and Department of Psychiatry, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Autism Research Centre, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- Department of Psychiatry, National Taiwan University Hospital and College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Wenn Lawson
- Department of Disability, Inclusion and Special Needs, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Curtin Autism Research Group, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Anna I.R. van der Miesen
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Harriette E. Wimms
- The Village Family Support Center of Baltimore, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Strang JF, McClellan LS, Li S, Jack AE, Wallace GL, McQuaid GA, Kenworthy L, Anthony LG, Lai MC, Pelphrey KA, Thalberg AE, Nelson EE, Phan JM, Sadikova E, Fischbach AL, Thomas J, Vaidya CJ. The autism spectrum among transgender youth: default mode functional connectivity. Cereb Cortex 2023; 33:6633-6647. [PMID: 36721890 PMCID: PMC10233301 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhac530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The common intersection of autism and transgender identities has been described in clinical and community contexts. This study investigates autism-related neurophenotypes among transgender youth. Forty-five transgender youth, evenly balanced across non-autistic, slightly subclinically autistic, and full-criteria autistic subgroupings, completed resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging to examine functional connectivity. Results confirmed hypothesized default mode network (DMN) hub hyperconnectivity with visual and motor networks in autism, partially replicating previous studies comparing cisgender autistic and non-autistic adolescents. The slightly subclinically autistic group differed from both non-autistic and full-criteria autistic groups in DMN hub connectivity to ventral attention and sensorimotor networks, falling between non-autistic and full-criteria autistic groups. Autism traits showed a similar pattern to autism-related group analytics, and also related to hyperconnectivity between DMN hub and dorsal attention network. Internalizing, gender dysphoria, and gender minority-related stigma did not show connectivity differences. Connectivity differences within DMN followed previously reported patterns by designated sex at birth (i.e. female birth designation showing greater within-DMN connectivity). Overall, findings suggest behavioral diagnostics and autism traits in transgender youth correspond to observable differences in DMN hub connectivity. Further, this study reveals novel neurophenotypic characteristics associated with slightly subthreshold autism, highlighting the importance of research attention to this group.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- John F Strang
- Gender and Autism Program, Children’s National Hospital, 15245 Shady Grove Road, Suite 350, Rockville, MD 20850, USA
- Departments of Pediatrics, Psychiatry, and Behavioral Sciences, George Washington University School of Medicine, Washington, DC, USA
- Division of Neuropsychology, Children’s National Hospital, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Lucy S McClellan
- Division of Neuropsychology, Children’s National Hospital, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Sufang Li
- Department of Psychology, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Allison E Jack
- Department of Psychology, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, USA
| | - Gregory L Wallace
- Department of Speech, Language, & Hearing Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Goldie A McQuaid
- Department of Psychology, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, USA
| | - Lauren Kenworthy
- Departments of Pediatrics, Psychiatry, and Behavioral Sciences, George Washington University School of Medicine, Washington, DC, USA
- Division of Neuropsychology, Children’s National Hospital, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Laura G Anthony
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Meng-Chuan Lai
- Child and Youth Mental Health Collaborative at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kevin A Pelphrey
- Department of Neurology, University of Virginia Medical School, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | | | - Eric E Nelson
- Center for Biobehavioral Health, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Jenny M Phan
- Division of Neuropsychology, Children’s National Hospital, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Eleonora Sadikova
- School of Education and Human Development, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Abigail L Fischbach
- Division of Neuropsychology, Children’s National Hospital, Washington, DC, USA
| | | | - Chandan J Vaidya
- Department of Psychology, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Bouzy J, Brunelle J, Cohen D, Condat A. Transidentities and autism spectrum disorder: A systematic review. Psychiatry Res 2023; 323:115176. [PMID: 36996732 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2023.115176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2023]
Abstract
Transidentity and autism frequently co-occur. Previous reviews have focused mainly on frequencies. Here, we conducted a systematic review to condense all the studies and themes on this co-occurrence and to offer a global view. We followed the PRISMA method and selected 77 articles (including 59 clinical studies) in April 2022. We found 5 main themes (sex ratio, theories, sexual orientation, clinical and social consequences, and care implications) in addition to frequencies. Many theories have been proposed to explain the co-occurrence. One posits that social difficulties related to autism would lead to less identification with gender norms and less pressure to conform to these norms, allowing for greater gender diversity in people with autism. Given their difficulties with social interactions and communication, the announcement of one's transidentity to one's social group is often discredited, increasing the risk of suffering and delayed care. Many reports reaffirm the importance of providing specialised care for transgender people with autism. Autism is not a contraindication for gender-affirming treatment. However, some cognitive specificities can affect the planning of care, and transgender people with autism are at high risk of discrimination and harassment. We conclude that there is a need to raise awareness about gender and autism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juliette Bouzy
- Service de Psychiatrie de l'Enfant et de l'Adolescent, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Julie Brunelle
- Service de Psychiatrie de l'Enfant et de l'Adolescent, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - David Cohen
- Service de Psychiatrie de l'Enfant et de l'Adolescent, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, AP-HP, Paris, France; Institut des Systèmes Intelligents et de Robotiques, Université Pierre et Marie Curie, Paris, France.
| | - Agnès Condat
- Service de Psychiatrie de l'Enfant et de l'Adolescent, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, AP-HP, Paris, France; UR14 "Santé et droits sexuels et reproductifs", Ined, Paris, France
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
A Gender-Based Point of View in Pediatric Neurology. J Pers Med 2023; 13:jpm13030483. [PMID: 36983665 PMCID: PMC10059661 DOI: 10.3390/jpm13030483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2023] [Indexed: 03/10/2023] Open
Abstract
While the significance of gender has only recently been recognized, gender assigned at birth has long been understood to have a significant influence on a number of illnesses. Due to the paucity of data in this regard in pediatrics, the purpose of this narrative review is to frame the most recent knowledge about the role of gender assigned at birth in the neurological development and neuropsychiatric disorders among young people. Literature analysis showed that gender disparities exist in neurologic and neuropsychiatric disorders among the pediatric population and supported the fact that new guidelines should take this into account. However, there is an urgent need for specific studies focused on gender role among children and adolescents in order to better understand how this can relate to diagnosis, development and treatment of different neurologic and neuropsychiatric diseases. Moreover, further efforts should be directed to identify unique risks linked to gender disorders and gender dysphoria as well as taking into account a gender point of view when approaching a pediatric patient.
Collapse
|
12
|
Corbett BA, Muscatello RA, Klemencic ME, West M, Kim A, Strang JF. Greater gender diversity among autistic children by self-report and parent-report. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2023; 27:158-172. [PMID: 35363085 PMCID: PMC9525458 DOI: 10.1177/13623613221085337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
LAY ABSTRACT Gender diversity broadly refers to the way in which an individual experiences (expressions and/or identities) their gender distinctly to that which would be expected based upon social norms for their gender assigned at birth. Recent research has shown a higher representation of gender diversity among autistic youth. Previous research in this area has relied on parent-report based on a single question from the Child Behavior Checklist Item-110, asking whether their child "Wishes to be the opposite sex." The Gender Diversity Screening Questionnaire Self-Report and Parent-Report were used to assess the experience of gender diversity in 244 children (140 autism spectrum disorder and 104 typically developing) between 10 and 13 years. The Item-110 was also collected. Results showed that autistic children endorsed much higher rates of Binary Gender Diversity (less identification with their designated sex and more with the other binary sex) and Nonbinary Gender Diversity (identification as neither male nor female) than typically developing children. Similarly, parents of autistic children reported significantly more gender-body incongruence experienced by their child than parents of typically developing children. Specifically, parents of autistic females-assigned-at-birth reported significantly more gender-body incongruence than autistic males-assigned-at-birth. Parent- and self-report measures were largely related. Moreover, statistical comparisons between and within the groups revealed associations between gender profiles and symptoms of anxiety, depression, and suicidality. Results extend previous reports showing increased rates of gender diversity in autistic children, now based on both self-report and parent-report, and highlight the need to better understand and support the unique and complex needs of autistic children who experience gender diversity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Blythe A. Corbett
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Department of
Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences,Vanderbilt Kennedy Center
| | - Rachael A. Muscatello
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Department of
Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences
| | - Mark E. Klemencic
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Department of
Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences
| | - Millicent West
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Department of
Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences
| | - Ahra Kim
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Department of
Biostatistics
| | - John F. Strang
- Gender and Autism Program, Children’s National
Hospital,Departments of Pediatrics, Psychiatry, and Behavioral
Science, George Washington University School of Medicine
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Ghassabian A, Suleri A, Blok E, Franch B, Hillegers MHJ, White T. Adolescent gender diversity: sociodemographic correlates and mental health outcomes in the general population. J Child Psychol Psychiatry 2022; 63:1415-1422. [PMID: 35147218 DOI: 10.1111/jcpp.13588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gender diversity in young adolescents is understudied outside of referral clinics. We investigated gender diversity in an urban, ethnically diverse sample of adolescents from the general population and examined predictors and associated mental health outcomes. METHODS The study was embedded in Generation R, a population-based cohort of children born between 2002 and 2006 in Rotterdam, the Netherlands (n = 5727). At ages 9-11 and 13-15 years, adolescents and/or their parents responded to two questions addressing children's contentedness with their assigned gender, whether they (a) 'wished to be the opposite sex' and (b) 'would rather be treated as someone from the opposite sex'. We defined 'gender-variant experience' when either the parent or child responded with 'somewhat or sometimes true' or 'very or often true'. Mental health was assessed at 13-15 years, using the Achenbach System of Empirically Based Assessment. RESULTS Less than 1% of the parents reported that their child had gender-variant experience, with poor stability between 9-11 and 13-15 years. In contrast, 4% of children reported gender-variant experience at 13-15 years. Adolescents who were assigned female at birth reported more gender-variant experience than those assigned male. Parents with low/medium educational levels reported more gender-variant experience in their children than those with higher education. There were positive associations between gender-variant experience and symptoms of anxiety, depression, somatic complaints, rule-breaking, and aggressive behavior as well as attention, social, and thought problems. Similar associations were observed for autistic traits, independent of other mental difficulties. These associations did not differ by assigned sex at birth. CONCLUSIONS Within this population-based study, adolescents assigned females were more likely to have gender-variant experience than males. Our data suggest that parents may not be aware of gender diversity feelings in their adolescents. Associations between gender diversity and mental health symptoms were present in adolescents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Akhgar Ghassabian
- Departments of Pediatrics, Population Health, and Environmental Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Anna Suleri
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Elisabet Blok
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.,The Generation R Study Group, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Berta Franch
- The Generation R Study Group, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Manon H J Hillegers
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Tonya White
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Mazzoli F, Cassioli E, Ristori J, Castellini G, Rossi E, Cocchetti C, Romani A, Angotti T, Giovanardi G, Mosconi M, Lingiardi V, Speranza AM, Ricca V, Vignozzi L, Maggi M, Fisher AD. Apparent autistic traits in transgender people: a prospective study of the impact of gender-affirming hormonal treatment. J Endocrinol Invest 2022; 45:2059-2068. [PMID: 35779204 PMCID: PMC9525411 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-022-01835-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE We evaluated differences in Autism Spectrum Quotient (AQ) scores between a sample of hormone-naïve transgender and cisgender people and the impact of gender-affirming hormonal treatment (GAHT) on AQ scores across time. Furthermore, we assessed alexithymia and social anxiety as possible mediators of changes in AQ scores. METHODS A cross-sectional comparison between cisgender and transgender people before GAHT and a prospective study on the effects of GAHT over time were performed. Transgender and cisgender people completed several psychometric tests. A total sample of 789 persons (n = 229 cismen; n = 172 ciswomen; n = 206 transmen; n = 182 transwomen) referring to the Florence and Rome Gender Clinics between 2018 and 2020 was enrolled. Of these, 62 participants referring to the Florence Gender Clinic were evaluated in a prospective study at baseline and 12 months after GAHT. RESULTS Groups showed significant differences in terms of autistic traits: ciswomen showed lower scores of AQ, while cismen reported higher scores of AQ than all other groups. Transgender individuals showed significant higher levels of Gender Dysphoria (GD), body uneasiness, alexithymia and social anxiety, compared to cisgender ones. No significant differences in general psychopathology were found between groups. Across time, transmen and transwomen showed a significant reduction in AQ scores. The decrease in alexithymia and social anxiety after GAHT did not predict the change in AQ scores. CONCLUSIONS The autistic traits in our sample may represent an epiphenomenon of GD rather than being part of an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) condition, since they significantly decreased after 12 months of GAHT.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- F Mazzoli
- Andrology, Women's Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Careggi University Hospital, Florence University Hospital, Florence, Italy
- Department of Experimental, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, Careggi University Hospital, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - E Cassioli
- Psychiatry Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - J Ristori
- Andrology, Women's Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Careggi University Hospital, Florence University Hospital, Florence, Italy
- Department of Experimental, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, Careggi University Hospital, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - G Castellini
- Psychiatry Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - E Rossi
- Psychiatry Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - C Cocchetti
- Andrology, Women's Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Careggi University Hospital, Florence University Hospital, Florence, Italy
- Department of Experimental, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, Careggi University Hospital, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - A Romani
- Andrology, Women's Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Careggi University Hospital, Florence University Hospital, Florence, Italy
- Department of Experimental, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, Careggi University Hospital, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - T Angotti
- Andrology, Women's Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Careggi University Hospital, Florence University Hospital, Florence, Italy
- Department of Experimental, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, Careggi University Hospital, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - G Giovanardi
- Department of Dynamic and Clinic Psychology, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - M Mosconi
- Azienda Ospedaliera San Camillo Forlanini, Rome, Italy
| | - V Lingiardi
- Department of Dynamic and Clinic Psychology, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - A M Speranza
- Department of Dynamic and Clinic Psychology, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - V Ricca
- Psychiatry Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - L Vignozzi
- Andrology, Women's Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Careggi University Hospital, Florence University Hospital, Florence, Italy
- Department of Experimental, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, Careggi University Hospital, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - M Maggi
- Department of Experimental, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, Careggi University Hospital, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - A D Fisher
- Andrology, Women's Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Careggi University Hospital, Florence University Hospital, Florence, Italy.
- Department of Experimental, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, Careggi University Hospital, University of Florence, Florence, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Wattel LL, Walsh RJ, Krabbendam L. Theories on the Link Between Autism Spectrum Conditions and Trans Gender Modality: a Systematic Review. REVIEW JOURNAL OF AUTISM AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISORDERS 2022; 11:275-295. [PMID: 38803560 PMCID: PMC11127869 DOI: 10.1007/s40489-022-00338-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2022] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Abstract
While research on the prevalence of co-occurring autism spectrum conditions (ASC) and trans gender modality (TGM) is available, less is known about the underlying mechanism of this association. Insight is needed to improve treatment of trans autistic people. This review provides an overview of theories on the ASC-TGM link and the available evidence for/against them published between January 2016 and October 2020. A systematic search was performed in PubMed, PsycINFO, Web of Science, and Scopus. This resulted in 36 studies, in which 15 theories were identified. Results indicate all theories lack substantial empirical support. Unlikely and promising theories were identified. The most promising theories were those on resistance to social norms and weakened sex differences. Future directions are provided.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luna L. Wattel
- Faculty of Science, University of Amsterdam, Science Park 904, 1098 XH Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Reubs J Walsh
- Department of Clinical, Neuro- and Developmental Psychology, Faculty of Behavioural and Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit, Van der Boechorststraat 9, 1081 BT Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Lydia Krabbendam
- Department of Clinical, Neuro- and Developmental Psychology, Faculty of Behavioural and Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit, Van der Boechorststraat 9, 1081 BT Amsterdam, Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Kallitsounaki A, Williams DM. Autism Spectrum Disorder and Gender Dysphoria/Incongruence. A systematic Literature Review and Meta-Analysis. J Autism Dev Disord 2022:10.1007/s10803-022-05517-y. [PMID: 35596023 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-022-05517-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The suggested overlap between autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and gender dysphoria/incongruence (GD/GI) has been much disputed. This review showed a relationship between ASD traits and GD feelings in the general population and a high prevalence of GD/GI in ASD. Our meta-analyses revealed that the pooled estimate of the prevalence of ASD diagnoses in GD/GI people was 11% (p < .001) and the overall effect size of the difference in ASD traits between GD/GI and control people was significant (g = 0.67, p < .001). Heterogeneity was high in both meta-analyses. We demonstrated that the chances that there is not a link between ASD and GD/GI are negligible, yet the size of it needs further investigation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aimilia Kallitsounaki
- School of Psychology, University of Kent, Keynes College, CT2 7NP, Canterbury, Kent, United Kingdom.
| | - David M Williams
- School of Psychology, University of Kent, Keynes College, CT2 7NP, Canterbury, Kent, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Understanding Vulnerability in Girls and Young Women with High-Functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder. WOMEN 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/women2010007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
There is a population of young women with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) who function relatively well so that their disorder is not easily recognized. If their difficulties with emotion regulation in childhood continue into adolescence they are vulnerable to the development of a number of mental disorders, treatment of which can be difficult if the presence of ASD is not understood. In this commentary, I use the example of gender dysphoria to illustrate the issues.
Collapse
|
18
|
Munoz Murakami LY, van der Miesen AIR, Nabbijohn AN, VanderLaan DP. Childhood Gender Variance and the Autism Spectrum: Evidence of an Association Using a Child Behavior Checklist 10-Item Autism Screener. JOURNAL OF SEX & MARITAL THERAPY 2022; 48:645-651. [PMID: 35107047 DOI: 10.1080/0092623x.2022.2035870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Childhood gender variance (GV) is associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnosis/traits; however, this association has mainly been investigated in clinical samples. An ASD screening measure based on 10 items from the commonly used Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) might enable investigation of this association in a wider variety of (non-clinical) populations where the CBCL and a measure of GV are available. We investigated whether GV in 6- to 12-year-olds (N = 1719; 48.8% assigned male at birth) from a community sample showed an association with the CBCL 10-item ASD screener. The Gender Identity Questionnaire for Children measured GV. The CBCL 10-item ASD screener measured ASD traits. The remaining CBCL items provided a measure of children's general emotional and behavioral challenges. Higher GV was associated with higher CBCL ASD screener scores, including when controlling for the remaining CBCL items. The CBCL 10-item ASD screener can be useful for investigating the link between GV and ASD traits in 6- to 12-year-olds. Given that the CBCL is commonly employed, secondary analyses of existing datasets that also included a measure of GV could enable investigation of how widely the association between GV and ASD applies across a variety of populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Anna I R van der Miesen
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Doug P VanderLaan
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, Canada
- Child and Youth Psychiatry, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Strang JF, Knauss M, van der Miesen A, McGuire J, Kenworthy L, Caplan R, Freeman A, Sadikova E, Zacks Z, Pervez N, Balleur A, Rowlands D, Sibarium E, Willing L, McCool MA, Ehrbar RD, Wyss SE, Wimms H, Tobing J, Thomas J, Austen J, Pine E, Griffin AD, Janssen A, Gomez-Lobo V, Brandt A, Morgan C, Meagher H, Gohari D, Kirby L, Russell L, Powers M, Anthony LG. A Clinical Program for Transgender and Gender-Diverse Neurodiverse/Autistic Adolescents Developed through Community-Based Participatory Design. JOURNAL OF CLINICAL CHILD AND ADOLESCENT PSYCHOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL FOR THE SOCIETY OF CLINICAL CHILD AND ADOLESCENT PSYCHOLOGY, AMERICAN PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION, DIVISION 53 2021; 50:730-745. [PMID: 32375521 PMCID: PMC11362985 DOI: 10.1080/15374416.2020.1731817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Objective: A series of studies report elevated rates of autism and autistic characteristics among gender-diverse youth seeking gender services. Although youth with the co-occurrence present with complex care needs, existing studies have focused on co-occurrence rates. Further, clinical commentaries have emphasized provider-centered interpretations of clinical needs rather than key stakeholder-driven clinical approaches. This study aimed to employ community-based participatory research methodologies to develop a key stakeholder-driven clinical group program.Method: Autistic/neurodiverse gender-diverse (A/ND-GD) youth (N = 31), parents of A/ND-GD youth (N = 46), A/ND-GD self-advocates (N = 10), and expert clinical providers (N = 10) participated in a multi-stage community-based participatory procedure. Needs assessment data were collected repeatedly over time from A/ND-GD youth and their parents as the youth interacted with one another through ongoing clinical groups, the curriculum of which was developed progressively through the iterative needs assessments.Results: Separate adolescent and parent needs assessments revealed key priorities for youth (e.g., the importance of connecting with other A/ND-GD youth and the benefit of experiencing a range of gender-diverse role models to make gender exploration and/or gender affirmation more concrete) and parents (e.g., the need for A/ND-related supports for their children as well as provision of an A/ND-friendly environment that fosters exploration of a range of gender expressions/options). Integration and translation of youth and parent priorities resulted in 11 novel clinical techniques for this population.Conclusions: With generally high acceptability ratings for each component of the group program, this study presents a community-driven clinical model to support broad care needs and preferences of A/ND-GD adolescents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- John F. Strang
- Gender and Autism Program, Division of Neuropsychology, Children’s National Health System, Washington, DC
- George Washington University School of Medicine, George Washington University, Washington, DC
| | - Megan Knauss
- Gender and Autism Program, Division of Neuropsychology, Children’s National Health System, Washington, DC
- Alliance of Community Health Plans, Washington, DC
| | - Anna van der Miesen
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jenifer McGuire
- Department of Family Social Science, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MD
- National Center for Gender Spectrum Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
| | - Lauren Kenworthy
- George Washington University School of Medicine, George Washington University, Washington, DC
- Center for Autism Spectrum Disorders, Children’s National Health System, Washington, DC
| | - Reid Caplan
- Autistic Self Advocacy Network, Washington, DC
| | - Andrew Freeman
- Department of Psychology, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, NV
| | - Eleonora Sadikova
- Gender and Autism Program, Division of Neuropsychology, Children’s National Health System, Washington, DC
| | - Zosia Zacks
- Hussman Center for Adults with Autism, Towson University, Towson, MD
| | - Noor Pervez
- Autistic Self Advocacy Network, Washington, DC
| | - Anouk Balleur
- Parnassia Psychiatric Institute, Gorinchem, The Netherlands
| | - D.W. Rowlands
- University of Maryland, Baltimore County, Catonsville, MD
| | | | - Laura Willing
- Gender and Autism Program, Division of Neuropsychology, Children’s National Health System, Washington, DC
- George Washington University School of Medicine, George Washington University, Washington, DC
| | - Marissa A. McCool
- Queer Indigenous and People of Color (QIPOC), Augsburg University, Minneapolis, MN
- V-Day, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | | | - Shannon E. Wyss
- Gender and Sexuality Education and Advocacy Program, Children’s National Medical Center, Washington, DC
- Transgender Leadership Initiative, AIDS United, Washington, DC
| | - Harriette Wimms
- Youth Gender Care Services, The Village Family Support Center of Baltimore, Baltimore, MD
| | | | - John Thomas
- Transgender and Autism Services, Falls Church Counseling, Falls Church, VA
| | - Julie Austen
- Carolina Converge Gender Affirming Services, Raleigh-Durham, NC
| | - Elyse Pine
- LGBT Health Resource Center, Chase Brexton Health Care, Baltimore, MD
| | | | - Aron Janssen
- Gender and Sexuality Service, Child Study Center, New York University Medical School, New York, NY
| | - Veronica Gomez-Lobo
- Gender and Autism Program, Division of Neuropsychology, Children’s National Health System, Washington, DC
- Division of Pediatric Gynecology, Children’s National Health System, Washington, DC
| | - Abigail Brandt
- Gender and Autism Program, Division of Neuropsychology, Children’s National Health System, Washington, DC
- Division of Hearing and Speech, Children’s National Health System, Washington, DC
| | - Colleen Morgan
- Gender and Autism Program, Division of Neuropsychology, Children’s National Health System, Washington, DC
- Division of Hearing and Speech, Children’s National Health System, Washington, DC
| | - Haley Meagher
- Gender and Autism Program, Division of Neuropsychology, Children’s National Health System, Washington, DC
| | - Dena Gohari
- Gender and Autism Program, Division of Neuropsychology, Children’s National Health System, Washington, DC
| | - Laura Kirby
- Gender and Autism Program, Division of Neuropsychology, Children’s National Health System, Washington, DC
| | - Laura Russell
- Gender and Autism Program, Division of Neuropsychology, Children’s National Health System, Washington, DC
| | - Meredith Powers
- Gender and Autism Program, Division of Neuropsychology, Children’s National Health System, Washington, DC
| | - Laura G. Anthony
- Department of Psychiatry, Pediatric Mental Health Institute, Children’s Hospital of Colorado, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Rosenthal SM. Challenges in the care of transgender and gender-diverse youth: an endocrinologist's view. Nat Rev Endocrinol 2021; 17:581-591. [PMID: 34376826 DOI: 10.1038/s41574-021-00535-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
An increasing number of transgender and gender-diverse (TGD) youth (early pubertal through to late adolescent, typically 9-10 through to 18 years of age) are seeking medical services to bring their physical sex characteristics into alignment with their gender identity - their inner sense of self as male or female or somewhere on the gender spectrum. Compelling research has demonstrated the clear mental health - even life-saving - benefits of gender-affirming care, but current clinical practice guidelines and standards of care are based on only several short-term and a few medium-term outcomes studies complemented by expert opinion. Nevertheless, although the relative paucity of outcomes data raises concerns, the stance of not intervening until more is known is not a neutral option, and large observational studies evaluating current models of care are necessary and are now underway. This Review highlights key advances in our understanding of transgender and gender-diverse youth, the challenges of providing gender-affirming care, gaps in knowledge and priorities for research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephen M Rosenthal
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Benioff Children's Hospital, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Manjra II, Masic U. Gender diversity and autism spectrum conditions in children and adolescents: A narrative review of the methodologies used by quantitative studies. J Clin Psychol 2021; 78:485-502. [PMID: 34553777 DOI: 10.1002/jclp.23249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Revised: 07/06/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
AIM This narrative review aimed to analyse the methodologies used by quantitative studies to evaluate their evidence for the association between gender diversity and autism spectrum conditions (ASC) in child and adolescent population samples. METHOD A systematic search was conducted for papers published between 2010 and 2020. RESULTS Fifteen papers met the inclusion criteria; all reported associations between their defined versions of gender diversity and ASC. Gender diversity was characterised as "dysphoria", "variance", and/or "diverse", and was correlated across ASC categories of "symptoms", "traits", or "empathising and systemising styles of thinking". Multiple diagnostic criteria and/or nonspecific, adult administrated measures were used to quantify youth gender experiences and ASCs. CONCLUSION Interpretations of the findings are discussed in relation to critical appraisal of methodologies used including data collection and deduction, the characteristics of the sample population, the usage of comparison groups, and the overall quality of statistical reporting amongst others.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ilham I Manjra
- Gender Identity Development Service, Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Una Masic
- Gender Identity Development Service, Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Joyal CC, Carpentier J, McKinnon S, Normand CL, Poulin MH. Sexual Knowledge, Desires, and Experience of Adolescents and Young Adults With an Autism Spectrum Disorder: An Exploratory Study. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:685256. [PMID: 34177667 PMCID: PMC8219850 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.685256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Although most persons with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) wish to have romantic and/or sexual relationships, little is known about self-report sexuality of adolescents/young adults with ASD. In this exploratory study, 172 male and female adolescents/young adults (68 with ASD and 104 without ASD) completed an online version of the Sexual Behavior Scale-Third edition. Although many more similarities than differences were observed between the groups for views and desires about romantic relationships (e.g., wishing to have a girlfriend/boyfriend), fewer participants with ASD (mostly boys) had experience with a variety of sexual/dyadic behaviors, and approximately half of girls with ASD reported negative sexual experiences. Significantly higher rates of participants with ASD felt their knowledge about sexuality was limited and found it difficult to understand sexual education compared with typically developing (TD) participants. Significantly lower rates of participants with ASD reported that they identify to their assigned gender compared with TD participants. Multiple regressions revealed that being older at first diagnosis and possessing better knowledge about sexuality were significant predictors of both positive and negative sexual experience. This study explores strengths and challenges related with the sexual health of adolescents/young adults with ASD and implications for clinical and educational practice are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christian C. Joyal
- Department of Psychology, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, Trois-Rivières, QC, Canada
| | - Julie Carpentier
- Department of Psychoeducation, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, Trois-Rivières, QC, Canada
| | - Suzie McKinnon
- Integrated University Health and Social Services Centre (IUHSSC) of Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean, IUHSSC Bas-Saint-Laurent and IUHSSC Côte-Nord, Saguenay, QC, Canada
- Intellectual Disability and Autism Spectrum Disorder Research Institute, IUHSSC of Mauricie and Centre-du-Québec, Trois-Rivières, QC, Canada
| | - Claude L. Normand
- Intellectual Disability and Autism Spectrum Disorder Research Institute, IUHSSC of Mauricie and Centre-du-Québec, Trois-Rivières, QC, Canada
- Department of Psychoeducation and Psychology, Université du Québec en Outaouais, Gatineau, QC, Canada
| | - Marie-Hélène Poulin
- Intellectual Disability and Autism Spectrum Disorder Research Institute, IUHSSC of Mauricie and Centre-du-Québec, Trois-Rivières, QC, Canada
- Department of Psychoeducation, Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue, Rouyn-Noranda, QC, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Strauss P, Cook A, Watson V, Winter S, Whitehouse A, Albrecht N, Wright Toussaint D, Lin A. Mental health difficulties among trans and gender diverse young people with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD): Findings from Trans Pathways. J Psychiatr Res 2021; 137:360-367. [PMID: 33761424 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2021.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2020] [Revised: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 03/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Recent research highlights an overlap of gender diversity and autism spectrum disorders (ASD); however, data on individuals who are trans and also on the autism spectrum are largely from clinical samples and may not be representative of individuals who are trans with ASD in the general population. In addition, there is scant literature on the mental health of these individuals and their experiences in accessing gender-affirming care. We investigated the prevalence of ASD in trans young people, their mental health (psychiatric diagnoses and self-harm and suicidal behaviors) and experiences in accessing gender-affirming care. This is an analysis of data collected in an Australian cross-sectional mixed methods survey (N = 859) of trans young people aged 14-25 years. Overall, 22.5% of participants had ever received a diagnosis of ASD from a health professional. This group was more likely to exhibit current psychopathology, have engaged in self-harming and suicidal behaviors, and was also more likely than the non-ASD diagnosed reference group to have received a psychiatric diagnosis. The ASD-diagnosed group were also more likely to experience barriers in accessing gender-affirming care. This is the first large population-based sample of trans individuals with ASD to report on mental health outcomes and experiences in accessing gender-affirming care. We highlight the necessity for clinicians working with either trans or ASD populations to have awareness of the co-occurrence, and to cultivate skills to work with individuals who are both trans and on the autism spectrum.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Penelope Strauss
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia; School of Population and Global Health, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia.
| | - Angus Cook
- School of Population and Global Health, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia.
| | - Vanessa Watson
- Youth Mental Health, North Metropolitan Health Service, Western Australian Department of Health, Perth, Australia.
| | - Sam Winter
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, Perth, Australia.
| | - Andrew Whitehouse
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia.
| | - Nicole Albrecht
- Youth Mental Health, North Metropolitan Health Service, Western Australian Department of Health, Perth, Australia.
| | | | - Ashleigh Lin
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
McPhate L, Williams K, Vance A, Winther J, Pang K, May T. Gender Variance in Children and Adolescents with Neurodevelopmental and Psychiatric Conditions from Australia. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2021; 50:863-871. [PMID: 33788061 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-021-01918-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2017] [Revised: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 01/13/2021] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Gender variance is a broad term used to describe gender non-conforming behaviors. Past studies have used the parental response to Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) Item 110, which asks whether a child "Wishes to be of opposite sex" as an indicator of gender variance. The population prevalence of gender variance in children and adolescents using this metric was found to be 1.2% in birth-assigned females and 0.4% in birth-assigned males (Achenbach & Rescorla, 2001). However, in those referred for psychiatric evaluation, it was higher (5.4% of birth-assigned females and 2.8% of birth-assigned males) (Achenbach & Rescorla, 2001). The aim of this study was to use the CBCL to estimate the prevalence of gender variance among children and adolescents with neurodevelopmental and psychiatric conditions and assess whether this was higher compared to controls. The response to the CBCL and the child's neurodevelopmental and/or psychiatric diagnosis were extracted from the clinical notes of 1553 children and adolescents referred to an outpatient psychiatry clinic in Australia. This was compared to data from 181 control participants as well as to the CBCL standardization sample of 1605 controls. Of the 1553 young people, whose mean age was 10.9 years, gender variance was reported in 3.1% compared to 1.7% in local control participants (p > .05) and 0.7% in the CBCL controls (p < .0001). Rates varied depending upon the underlying diagnosis (ASD 5.2%; ADHD 2.5%, intellectual disability 4.7%; depression 2.6%; and anxiety 4.7%). In this way, our findings support past observations that young people with neurodevelopmental and psychiatric conditions have high rates of gender variance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lucy McPhate
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Katrina Williams
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Flemington Road, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Alasdair Vance
- Academic Child Psychiatry Unit and Developmental Neuropsychiatry Program, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Jo Winther
- Academic Child Psychiatry Unit and Developmental Neuropsychiatry Program, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Kenneth Pang
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia.
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Flemington Road, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia.
- Inflammation Division, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC, Australia.
| | - Tamara May
- Department of Paediatrics, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Kallitsounaki A, Williams D. Mentalising Moderates the Link between Autism Traits and Current Gender Dysphoric Features in Primarily Non-autistic, Cisgender Individuals. J Autism Dev Disord 2020; 50:4148-4157. [PMID: 32239391 PMCID: PMC7560908 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-020-04478-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The co-occurrence between autism and gender dysphoria has received much attention recently. We found that, among 101 adults from the general population number of autism traits, as measured using the autism-spectrum quotient was associated significantly with recalled and current gender dysphoric traits. Furthermore, performance on an objective measure of mentalising, such as the “Reading the Mind in the Eyes” test was associated with current gender dysphoric traits, but most importantly it moderated the relation between number of autism traits and number of current gender dysphoric traits, such that the association was significant only when mentalising ability was relatively low. Results suggest mentalising may represent a contributing factor to the relation between autism and gender dysphoric traits in the general population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - David Williams
- School of Psychology, Keynes College, University of Kent, Canterbury, CT2 7NP, UK
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Herrmann L, Bindt C, Schweizer K, Micheel J, Nieder TO, Haaß J, Schöttle D, Becker-Hebly I. [Autism Spectrum Disorders and Gender Dysphoria Among Children and Adolescents: Systematic Review on the Co-Occurrence]. PSYCHIATRISCHE PRAXIS 2020; 47:300-307. [PMID: 32542639 DOI: 10.1055/a-1148-4873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The review systematically reviews the literature on co-occurring gender dysphoria/gender variance and autism spectrum disorder among children and adolescents. METHODS A systematic literature search was conducted for the years 1946 to December 2018. RESULTS 144 publications could be identified in the literature search. Out of these, 22 publications met the inclusion criteria for the systematic review. 4.7 to 13.3 % of the children and adolescents with primarily diagnosed gender dysphoria/variance examined in the studies also had an autism diagnosis. In samples of children and adolescents with primarily diagnosed autism gender variance was overrepresented with a prevalence of 4 to 6.5 %. CONCLUSION The results of the systematic review point towards an overrepresentation of co-occurring gender dysphoria/variance and autism spectrum disorder. Methodological and clinical implications are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lena Herrmann
- Klinik für Kinder- und Jugendpsychiatrie, -psychotherapie und -psychosomatik, Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf
| | - Carola Bindt
- Klinik für Kinder- und Jugendpsychiatrie, -psychotherapie und -psychosomatik, Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf
| | - Katinka Schweizer
- Institut und Poliklinik für Sexualforschung und Forensische Psychiatrie, Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf
| | - Jan Micheel
- Klinik für Kinder- und Jugendpsychiatrie, -psychotherapie und -psychosomatik, Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf
| | - Timo Ole Nieder
- Institut und Poliklinik für Sexualforschung und Forensische Psychiatrie, Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf
| | - Judith Haaß
- Klinik für Kinder- und Jugendpsychiatrie, -psychotherapie und -psychosomatik, Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf
| | - Daniel Schöttle
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie, Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf
| | - Inga Becker-Hebly
- Klinik für Kinder- und Jugendpsychiatrie, -psychotherapie und -psychosomatik, Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf
- Institut und Poliklinik für Sexualforschung und Forensische Psychiatrie, Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Warrier V, Greenberg DM, Weir E, Buckingham C, Smith P, Lai MC, Allison C, Baron-Cohen S. Elevated rates of autism, other neurodevelopmental and psychiatric diagnoses, and autistic traits in transgender and gender-diverse individuals. Nat Commun 2020; 11:3959. [PMID: 32770077 PMCID: PMC7415151 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-17794-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 176] [Impact Index Per Article: 44.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2019] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
It is unclear whether transgender and gender-diverse individuals have elevated rates of autism diagnosis or traits related to autism compared to cisgender individuals in large non-clinic-based cohorts. To investigate this, we use five independently recruited cross-sectional datasets consisting of 641,860 individuals who completed information on gender, neurodevelopmental and psychiatric diagnoses including autism, and measures of traits related to autism (self-report measures of autistic traits, empathy, systemizing, and sensory sensitivity). Compared to cisgender individuals, transgender and gender-diverse individuals have, on average, higher rates of autism, other neurodevelopmental and psychiatric diagnoses. For both autistic and non-autistic individuals, transgender and gender-diverse individuals score, on average, higher on self-report measures of autistic traits, systemizing, and sensory sensitivity, and, on average, lower on self-report measures of empathy. The results may have clinical implications for improving access to mental health care and tailoring adequate support for transgender and gender-diverse individuals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Varun Warrier
- Autism Research Centre, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Douglas House, 18B Trumpington Road, Cambridge, CB2 8AH, UK.
| | - David M Greenberg
- Autism Research Centre, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Douglas House, 18B Trumpington Road, Cambridge, CB2 8AH, UK
- Interdisciplinary Department of Social Sciences and Department of Music, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, 5290002, Israel
| | - Elizabeth Weir
- Autism Research Centre, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Douglas House, 18B Trumpington Road, Cambridge, CB2 8AH, UK
| | - Clara Buckingham
- Autism Research Centre, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Douglas House, 18B Trumpington Road, Cambridge, CB2 8AH, UK
| | - Paula Smith
- Autism Research Centre, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Douglas House, 18B Trumpington Road, Cambridge, CB2 8AH, UK
| | - Meng-Chuan Lai
- Autism Research Centre, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Douglas House, 18B Trumpington Road, Cambridge, CB2 8AH, UK
- Child and Youth Mental Health Collaborative, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health and The Hospital for Sick Children, Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, 80 Workman Way, Toronto, ON, M6J 1H4, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, National Taiwan University Hospital and College of Medicine, No. 7, Zhongshan South Rd., Taipei, 10002, Taiwan
| | - Carrie Allison
- Autism Research Centre, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Douglas House, 18B Trumpington Road, Cambridge, CB2 8AH, UK
| | - Simon Baron-Cohen
- Autism Research Centre, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Douglas House, 18B Trumpington Road, Cambridge, CB2 8AH, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Baetens L, Dhondt K. Psychosocial challenges and hormonal treatment in gender diverse children and adolescents. A narrative review. Int J Impot Res 2020; 33:217-227. [PMID: 32366985 DOI: 10.1038/s41443-020-0291-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2020] [Revised: 04/10/2020] [Accepted: 04/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Gender dysphoria (GD) in children and adolescents is a condition that is characterized by an incongruence between the assigned and experienced gender. Despite the diversity in clinical presentation, literature demonstrates that GD might lead to poor mental health and high rates of co-occurring psychopathology. Due to the overlap of physical aspects as well as psychological needs in these children, a multidisciplinary approach is highly desirable. The aim of this narrative review is to give an overview of recent literature on several topics relevant in this domain. Guidelines on psychological counseling and hormonal treatment are given and challenging topics subject to controversy are explained. Furthermore, attention is drawn to the risks and protective factors in psychological functioning, including the growing evidence of a frequent co-occurrence with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Finally the psycho-sexual development in these children, the impact on fertility and fertility preservation are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Baetens
- General Psychiatry Department, Sint-Lucas, Bruges, Belgium, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Karlien Dhondt
- Dept Child & Adolescent psychiatry, Center for Gender and Sexuology, Pediatric Gender Clinic, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium.
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Strang JF, Klomp SE, Caplan R, Griffin AD, Anthony LG, Harris MC, Graham EK, Knauss M, van der Miesen AIR. Community-Based Participatory Design for Research that Impacts the Lives of Transgender and/or Gender-Diverse Autistic and/or Neurodiverse People. CLINICAL PRACTICE IN PEDIATRIC PSYCHOLOGY 2019; 7:396-404. [PMID: 33767942 DOI: 10.1037/cpp0000310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Objective Research addressing the co-occurrence of autism (and/or neurodiversity) and gender-diversity (A/ND-GD) has been conducted largely without the perspectives and voices of the A/ND-GD community. Including A/ND-GD community advocates as research partners may be a critical next step for advancing research initiatives on the co-occurrence given the apparent complexity and alterity of the A/ND-GD experience. Method Consistent with the community-based participatory research (CBPR) model we propose herein, our authorship team includes a partnership between clinician researchers and diverse A/ND-GD community collaborators. Multiple facets of the A/ND-GD lived experience are examined, including through narratives provided by our A/ND-GD community partners. Results Based on our experience conducting A/ND-GD-related research and our lived experience as A/ND-GD self-advocates, we highlight challenges in this line of research, including risks of conducting studies without the involvement of the A/ND-GD community. And given that many A/ND-GD youth present with gender-related urgency during the teen years, we provide a developmental framework for how CBPR-informed methods may enrich our understanding of the care needs of these young people and provide context for the apparent heterogeneity in their gender needs and trajectories over time. Conclusions Integrating CBPR methodologies in A/ND-GD research initiatives has the potential to optimize the relevance of the research questions asked and the interpretation and contextualization of study findings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- John F Strang
- Gender and Autism Program, Center for Autism Spectrum Disorders, Children's National Medical Center, Washington, DC USA.,George Washington University School of Medicine, George Washington University, Washington, DC USA
| | | | - Reid Caplan
- Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN), Washington, DC USA
| | | | - Laura G Anthony
- Pediatric Mental Health Institute, Children's Hospital of Colorado, Aurora, CO USA.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO USA
| | | | - Elizabeth K Graham
- The Arc of Prince George's County, Largo, MD USA.,The Arc of the United States National Council of Self-Advocates, Washington DC USA
| | - Megan Knauss
- Gender and Autism Program, Center for Autism Spectrum Disorders, Children's National Medical Center, Washington, DC USA.,Alliance of Community Health Plans, Washington, DC USA
| | - Anna I R van der Miesen
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Center of Expertise in Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
|
31
|
Hisle-Gorman E, Landis CA, Susi A, Schvey NA, Gorman GH, Nylund CM, Klein DA. Gender Dysphoria in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. LGBT Health 2019; 6:95-100. [DOI: 10.1089/lgbt.2018.0252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Corinne A. Landis
- Department of Family Medicine, Fort Belvoir Community Hospital, Fort Belvoir, Virginia
| | - Apryl Susi
- Department of Pediatrics, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Natasha A. Schvey
- Department of Medical and Clinical Psychology, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Gregory H. Gorman
- Department of Pediatrics, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, Maryland
- Department of Pediatrics, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Cade M. Nylund
- Department of Pediatrics, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, Maryland
- Department of Pediatrics, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - David A. Klein
- Department of Pediatrics, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, Maryland
- Department of Family Medicine, Fort Belvoir Community Hospital, Fort Belvoir, Virginia
- Department of Family Medicine, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, Maryland
| |
Collapse
|