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Vance SR, Venegas L, Johnson J, Sinha A, Chaphekar AV, Sevelius J. Community-Derived Recommendations for Improving Gender Affirmation of Black and Latine Transgender/Nonbinary Youth. Ann Behav Med 2024; 58:517-526. [PMID: 38963074 PMCID: PMC11237890 DOI: 10.1093/abm/kaae036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gender affirmation is a process by which gender-diverse individuals are supported in their gender identity. Parents are critical in how gender-diverse youth, including Black and Latine transgender/nonbinary youth (BLTY), access various forms of gender affirmation-for example, social and medical transition. Culturally relevant supports are needed to bolster how BLTY and their parents navigate gender affirmation. PURPOSE This study aimed to explore recommendations for aiding BLTY and parents in navigating the youth's gender journey. METHODS Semi-structured interviews were conducted with parents of BLTY, BLTY, and BLT young adults (BLTYAs) recruited from clinics, community organizations, and social media. Interviews focused on gender affirmation and recommendations to promote BLTY's gender affirmation. Primary and secondary analysts coded transcripts using a priori and emergent codes. For this analysis, excerpts pertaining to recommended supports were analyzed to identify themes. RESULTS Ten parents of BLTY, 10 BLTY (14-18 years), and 23 BLTYAs (18-30 years) participated. Participants provided recommendations at different socio-ecological levels. On the societal level, participants recommended improvements in media representation of racial and ethnic minority gender-diverse individuals. For organizations, participants recommended more clinicians who shared minoritized identities, clinicians knowledgeable in gender-affirming care, affordability of gender-affirming services, and school-based education regarding gender diversity. On interpersonal/individual levels, they suggested culturally informed peer support among BLTY and parents, including support groups, peer mentors, and camps with individuals who share their minoritized identities. CONCLUSIONS Participants provided salient insights to supporting gender affirmation of BLTY, which can inform intervention development for BLTY and their families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stanley R Vance
- Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Luz Venegas
- Department of Medicine, Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Jack Johnson
- Department of Medicine, Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Anoushka Sinha
- Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Anita V Chaphekar
- Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Jae Sevelius
- Department of Medicine, Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
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Leonhardt A, Fuchs M, Gander M, Sevecke K. Gender dysphoria in adolescence: examining the rapid-onset hypothesis. NEUROPSYCHIATRIE : KLINIK, DIAGNOSTIK, THERAPIE UND REHABILITATION : ORGAN DER GESELLSCHAFT OSTERREICHISCHER NERVENARZTE UND PSYCHIATER 2024:10.1007/s40211-024-00500-8. [PMID: 38951367 DOI: 10.1007/s40211-024-00500-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 07/03/2024]
Abstract
The sharp rise in the number of predominantly natal female adolescents experiencing gender dysphoria and seeking treatment in specialized clinics has sparked a contentious and polarized debate among both the scientific community and the public sphere. Few explanations have been offered for these recent developments. One proposal that has generated considerable attention is the notion of "rapid-onset" gender dysphoria, which is assumed to apply to a subset of adolescents and young adults. First introduced by Lisa Littman in a 2018 study of parental reports, it describes a subset of youth, primarily natal females, with no childhood indicators of gender dysphoria but with a sudden emergence of gender dysphoria symptoms during puberty or after its completion. For them, identifying as transgender is assumed to serve as a maladaptive coping mechanism for underlying mental health issues and is linked to social influences from peer groups and through social media. The purpose of this article is to analyze this theory and its associated hypotheses against the existing evidence base and to discuss its potential implications for future research and the advancement of treatment paradigms.
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Affiliation(s)
- André Leonhardt
- Institute of Psychology, University of Innsbruck, Universitätsstraße 15, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria.
| | - Martin Fuchs
- Department for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Manuela Gander
- Institute of Psychology, University of Innsbruck, Universitätsstraße 15, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Kathrin Sevecke
- Department for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
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Li R, Liu Y, Lian Q. Nonconforming gender expression and adolescent anabolic-androgenic steroids misuse. Child Adolesc Psychiatry Ment Health 2024; 18:65. [PMID: 38845050 PMCID: PMC11157812 DOI: 10.1186/s13034-024-00761-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gender nonconformity (GNC) is an under-researched area of adolescent health that is of increasing interest to researchers and general public. However, little is known about whether it is associated with anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) misuse. We aimed to investigate the association among high school students using a cross-sectional design. METHODS We pooled the 6 school districts data from the Youth Risk Behavior Survey in 2017 and 2019. We compared the prevalence of AAS misuse among gender nonconforming and conforming students. AAS misuse was determined on the reported experience of lifetime non-prescription steroid use. GNC was derived from perceived gender expression and sex. We estimated the sex-stratified adjusted odds ratios (AORs) for the association of GNC with AAS misuse after adjusting for race/ethnicity, grade, and sexual orientation. RESULTS The study population consisted of 17,754 US high school students including 9143 (49.67%) female students. Among female students, GNC was significantly associated with moderate (AOR, 3.69; 95% CI 1.28-10.62; P = 0.016) and severe (AOR, 5.00; 95% CI 1.05-23.76; P = 0.043) AAS misuse, but not with any AAS misuse (AOR, 0.85; 95% CI 0.34-2.14; P = 0.734). Among male students, GNC was significantly associated with any (AOR, 4.75; 95% CI 2.93-7.69; P < 0.001), moderate (AOR, 4.86; 95% CI 2.66-8.89; P < 0.001) and severe (AOR, 4.13; 95% CI 1.43-11.95; P = 0.009) AAS misuse. We did not observe a dose-response relationship between GNC and any AAS misuse in female and male students. CONCLUSIONS This study suggests that AAS misuse is associated with GNC among female and male adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruili Li
- Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, China
| | - Yuexi Liu
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Qiguo Lian
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation, Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies, 779 Laohumin Road, Shanghai, 200237, China.
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Chelliah P, Lau M, Kuper LE. Changes in Gender Dysphoria, Interpersonal Minority Stress, and Mental Health Among Transgender Youth After One Year of Hormone Therapy. J Adolesc Health 2024; 74:1106-1111. [PMID: 38340124 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2023.12.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Cross-sectional studies have identified a strong link between interpersonal minority stress and mental health among transgender youth. However, very little is known about how experiences of minority stress change over time and how these changes relate to mental health. Further, few quantitative studies have examined the extent to which changes in gender dysphoria drive the improvements witnessed in mental health following gender-affirming medical treatment. METHODS Transgender youth (N = 115; age 12-18) completed measures of interpersonal minority stress (e.g., family and peer support, parent support of gender, victimization), body dissatisfaction, and mental health (e.g., depression, anxiety, psychosocial functioning) at baseline and one year after initiating medical treatment with a multidisciplinary gender-affirming program. RESULTS Significant reductions in body dissatisfaction, victimization, depression, and anxiety were found along with improvements in parent gender-related nonaffirmation and psychosocial functioning. Higher levels of baseline family support, parent gender-related acceptance, and lower levels of baseline victimization were associated with better mental health at one-year follow-up. Reductions in body dissatisfaction were also associated with fewer symptoms of depression and better psychosocial functioning and follow-up. DISCUSSION Results provide further confirmation of the broad, short-term benefits of gender-affirming hormone therapy and highlight the importance of monitoring youth's experience of dysphoria while receiving treatment. Results also continue to highlight the importance of family support and suggest some forms of minority stress improve over time; however, the relationship between short-term changes in minority stress and mental health may be more complex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priya Chelliah
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical School, Dallas, Texas
| | - May Lau
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas; Children's Health Systems of Texas, Dallas, Texas
| | - Laura E Kuper
- Children's Health Systems of Texas, Dallas, Texas; Department of Psychiatry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas.
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Esposito EC, Ellerkamp H, Eisenberg AM, Handley ED, Glenn CR. Suicide Ideation Among Transgender and Gender Diverse Adolescents: The Role of Parental Invalidation of Adolescents' Gender Identity. Res Child Adolesc Psychopathol 2024:10.1007/s10802-024-01203-y. [PMID: 38767739 DOI: 10.1007/s10802-024-01203-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Transgender and gender diverse (TGD) youth experience chronic and acute stress associated with their gender identity contributing to their increased risk of suicide and suicide ideation (SI) compared to non-TGD peers. This study examined how invalidating and accepting gender-related experiences with a parent impact SI severity among TGD adolescents cross-sectionally and longitudinally, within-person. Participants were 15 TGD adolescents with past month SI recruited across community and clinical settings. Adolescents completed a baseline assessment of validated interviews and self-report measures on parental invalidation and SI severity. Over a 14-day follow-up period, adolescents reported instances of parental gender invalidation and acceptance, relative stress of those experiences, and SI severity multiple times/day via ecological momentary assessment (EMA). Bivariate associations of parental invalidation and acceptance with SI were examined at baseline, while multilevel models examined the relationship within-person over follow-up. Cross-sectionally, greater perceived invalidation and non-affirmation by their parents was associated with more severe SI. Over the follow up, instances of perceived parental invalidation were associated with passive SI within-person. Findings partially support the minority stress theory and social safety perspective by showing that perceived gender-invalidation from parents affects SI in TGD adolescents, both cross-sectionally and longitudinally. Further research is needed to identify specific emotional and cognitive factors, such as perceived stress, that contribute to the risk of SI among TGD youth and inform the development of targeted interventions for this vulnerable population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika C Esposito
- Department of Psychology, Mt. Hope Family Center, University of Rochester, 355 Meliora Hall, Box 270266, Rochester, NY, 14627, USA.
| | - Hannah Ellerkamp
- Northwell Health Physician Partners LGBTQ Transgender Program, Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, New Hyde Park, NY, Hempstead, USA
| | - Alana M Eisenberg
- Department of Psychology, Mt. Hope Family Center, University of Rochester, 355 Meliora Hall, Box 270266, Rochester, NY, 14627, USA
| | - Elizabeth D Handley
- Department of Psychology, Mt. Hope Family Center, University of Rochester, 355 Meliora Hall, Box 270266, Rochester, NY, 14627, USA
| | - Catherine R Glenn
- Department of Psychology, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA, USA
- Virginia Consortium Program in Clinical Psychology, Norfolk, VA, USA
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Lucas R, Geierstanger S, Soleimanpour S. Mental Health Needs, Barriers, and Receipt of Care Among Transgender and Nonbinary Adolescents. J Adolesc Health 2024:S1054-139X(24)00165-4. [PMID: 38739056 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2024.03.009] [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: 10/05/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Transgender and nonbinary youth disproportionately experience adverse mental health outcomes compared to cisgender youth. This study examined differences in their mental health needs and supports, barriers to care, and receipt of mental health care. METHODS This study examined cross-sectional data from 43,339 adolescents who completed the California Healthy Kids Survey, 4% (n = 1,876) of whom identified as transgender and/or nonbinary. Chi-square test and t-test were used to compare mental health needs and supports, resilience, and barriers to and receipt of care experienced by transgender and nonbinary youth compared to cisgender youth. RESULTS Transgender and nonbinary youth were significantly more likely to experience chronic sadness/hopelessness (74% vs. 35%) and consider suicide (53% vs. 14%) and less likely to report resilience factors (school connectedness: mean score 3.12 vs. 3.52). Transgender and nonbinary youth were significantly less likely to be willing to talk to teachers/adults from school (12% vs. 18%) or parents/family members (21% vs. 43%), but more willing to talk to counselors (25% vs. 19%) regarding mental health concerns. Transgender and nonbinary youth were significantly more likely to select being afraid (48% vs. 20%), not knowing how to get help (44% vs. 30%), or concern their parents would find out (61% vs. 36%) as barriers to seeking mental health care, yet reported slightly higher odds of receiving care when needed (odds ratio: 1.2). DISCUSSION Transgender and nonbinary youth are more likely to report mental health concerns and barriers to seeking care than cisgender youth. Increasing access to care is critical for this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruby Lucas
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington; School of Medicine, Philip R. Lee Institute for Health Policy Studies, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California.
| | - Sara Geierstanger
- School of Medicine, Philip R. Lee Institute for Health Policy Studies, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Samira Soleimanpour
- School of Medicine, Philip R. Lee Institute for Health Policy Studies, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
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Hamel C, Rodrigue C, Clermont C, Hébert M, Paquette L, Dion J. Alexithymia as a mediator of the associations between child maltreatment and internalizing and externalizing behaviors in adolescence. Sci Rep 2024; 14:6359. [PMID: 38493260 PMCID: PMC10944459 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-56909-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Child maltreatment is a global concern that profoundly affects individuals throughout their lives. This study investigated the relationships between various forms of child maltreatment and behavior problems involving internalization and externalization during adolescence. Data obtained from a diverse sample of 1802 Canadians aged 14-18 years was used to examine the mediating role of alexithymia-a difficulty in recognizing and expressing emotions-in these associations. Results indicated that adolescents who experienced sexual abuse, emotional abuse, and exposure to intimate partner violence (IPV) in their childhood exhibited higher levels of alexithymia, which was correlated with elevated levels of both internalizing and externalizing problems. Physical abuse and parental neglect were only associated with externalizing problems. Gender differences also emerged, with gender-diverse adolescents reporting a higher prevalence of maltreatment, alexithymia, and behavior problems compared with their peers. However, alexithymia's mediating role was consistent across genders. Overall, this study highlights the intricate relationships between child maltreatment, alexithymia, and adolescent behavior problems. The findings of this study how different forms of child maltreatment significantly shape behavioral outcomes and indicate the importance of interventions in enhancing emotional awareness and expression in adolescents with a childhood history of maltreatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Hamel
- Département de Psychologie, Université de Montréal, Montréal, H2V 2S9, Canada.
- Research Centre On Intimate Relationship Problems and Sexual Abuse (CRIPCAS), Université de Montréal, Montréal, H2V 2S9, Canada.
| | - Christopher Rodrigue
- Research Centre On Intimate Relationship Problems and Sexual Abuse (CRIPCAS), Université de Montréal, Montréal, H2V 2S9, Canada
- École de Psychologie, Université Laval, Québec, G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Camille Clermont
- Research Centre On Intimate Relationship Problems and Sexual Abuse (CRIPCAS), Université de Montréal, Montréal, H2V 2S9, Canada
- École de Psychologie, Université Laval, Québec, G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Martine Hébert
- Research Centre On Intimate Relationship Problems and Sexual Abuse (CRIPCAS), Université de Montréal, Montréal, H2V 2S9, Canada
- Département de Sexologie, Université du Québec À Montréal, Montréal, H2L 4Y2, Canada
| | - Linda Paquette
- Département Des Sciences de La Santé, Université du Québec À Chicoutimi, Chicoutimi, G7H 2B1, Canada
| | - Jacinthe Dion
- Research Centre On Intimate Relationship Problems and Sexual Abuse (CRIPCAS), Université de Montréal, Montréal, H2V 2S9, Canada
- Département de Psychologie, Université du Québec À Trois-Rivières, Trois-Rivières, G9A 5H7, Canada
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Li J, Feng Y, Yu Y, Xu S, Wang Y. Effect of gender identity on the association between gender dysphoria and suicidality via appearance anxiety among transgender and gender-diverse young people: moderated mediation study. BJPsych Open 2024; 10:e66. [PMID: 38482718 PMCID: PMC10951840 DOI: 10.1192/bjo.2024.18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gender dysphoria is associated with suicidality among transgender and gender-diverse (TGD) people. Gender dysphoria also results in a stress on appearance. AIMS The objectives of this study were to examine: (a) whether appearance anxiety mediates the effect of gender dysphoria on suicidality; and (b) whether gender identity moderates the mediating effect of appearance anxiety. METHOD A total of 117 769 college and university students were recruited in this cross-sectional study from Jilin Province, China. After screening based on participants' gender identity, 2352 TGD young people (aged from 15 to 25 years) were divided into three subgroups: female to male (FTM), male to female (MTF) and non-binary. Self-report inventories measured gender dysphoria, suicidality and appearance anxiety. A structural equation model was run to examine the relationships among TGD gender identity, gender dysphoria, appearance anxiety and suicidality. RESULTS Among TGD young people, gender dysphoria was significantly positively associated with suicidality (β = 0.15, 95% CI = 0.11-0.18, P < 0.001). Appearance anxiety partially mediated the association between gender dysphoria and suicidality (β = 0.07, 95% CI = 0.05-0.08, P < 0.001). Gender identity moderated the mediating effects: compared with individuals with FTM identity, among those with MTF and non-binary identities, gender dysphoria showed stronger positive effects on appearance anxiety, and appearance anxiety showed greater effects in mediating the association between gender dysphoria and suicidality. CONCLUSIONS Among TGD young people, gender dysphoria is significantly associated with suicidality via appearance anxiety, with gender identity moderating the mediating effects. Diverse treatments should consider the heterogeneity of TGD subgroups, with the aim of limiting the tendency of gender dysphoria to trigger appearance anxiety, thus further buffering against the risk of suicide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaqi Li
- Key Laboratory of Brain, Cognition and Education Sciences, Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, China; and School of Psychology, Center for Studies of Psychological Application, and Guangdong Key Laboratory of Mental Health and Cognitive Science, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yi Feng
- Mental Health Center, Central University of Finance and Economics, Beijing, China
| | - Yi Yu
- Key Laboratory of Brain, Cognition and Education Sciences, Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, China; and School of Psychology, Center for Studies of Psychological Application, and Guangdong Key Laboratory of Mental Health and Cognitive Science, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shicun Xu
- Northeast Asian Research Center, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yuanyuan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Brain, Cognition and Education Sciences, Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, China; and School of Psychology, Center for Studies of Psychological Application, and Guangdong Key Laboratory of Mental Health and Cognitive Science, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
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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. [PMID: 38433429 DOI: 10.1111/jcpp.13965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [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.
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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
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Boerner KE, Keogh E, Inkster AM, Nahman-Averbuch H, Oberlander TF. A developmental framework for understanding the influence of sex and gender on health: Pediatric pain as an exemplar. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2024; 158:105546. [PMID: 38272336 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2024.105546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Revised: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
Sex differences are a robust finding in many areas of adult health, including cardiovascular disease, psychiatric disorders, and chronic pain. However, many sex differences are not consistently observed until after the onset of puberty. This has led to the hypothesis that hormones are primary contributors to sex differences in health outcomes, largely ignoring the relative contributions of early developmental influences, emerging psychosocial factors, gender, and the interaction between these variables. In this paper, we argue that a comprehensive understanding of sex and gender contributions to health outcomes should start as early as conception and take an iterative biopsychosocial-developmental perspective that considers intersecting social positions. We present a conceptual framework, informed by a review of the literature in basic, clinical, and social science that captures how critical developmental stages for both sex and gender can affect children's health and longer-term outcomes. The literature on pediatric chronic pain is used as a worked example of how the framework can be applied to understanding different chronic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katelynn E Boerner
- Department of Pediatrics, University of British Columbia, and BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
| | - Edmund Keogh
- Department of Psychology & Centre for Pain Research, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom
| | - Amy M Inkster
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, and BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Hadas Nahman-Averbuch
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Tim F Oberlander
- Department of Pediatrics, University of British Columbia, and BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada; School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, and BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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11
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Moen M, Sublette N, Alves J, Walker CM. Policy Challenges and Resiliency Related to Ending the HIV Epidemic in the Southern and Rural United States: A Call to Action. J Assoc Nurses AIDS Care 2024; 35:161-172. [PMID: 38306307 DOI: 10.1097/jnc.0000000000000454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2024]
Abstract
ABSTRACT In this commentary, we describe current policy trends and their implications for the health of populations in the Southern and rural United States. We outline policy changes that threaten the prevention, care, and treatment of people at risk for HIV or with HIV and sociopolitical factors contributing to these policy trends. We also issue a call-to-action for individuals with Southern and rural US policy expertise and lived or living experience to collaboratively engage on a systematic policy analysis to thoroughly document relevant policies and deepen our understanding of the influences behind these policies. Finally, we provide examples of individual, community, and national level resiliency and courage-strategies that inspire advocacy and hope in the face of policy setbacks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marik Moen
- Marik Moen, PhD, MPH, RN, is an Assistant Professor, University of Maryland Baltimore School of Nursing, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Nina Sublette, PhD, APRN-FNP, AACRN, SANE-P, is an Assistant Professor, University of Tennessee Health Sciences Center College of Nursing, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
- Justin Alves, MSN, FNP-BC, ACRN, CARN, CNE, is a Clinical Nurse Educator with Boston Medical Center's Grayken Center for Addiction Training and Technical Assistance, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Crystal Martin Walker, PhD, DNP, FNP-C, is an Assistant Professor, University of Tennessee Health Sciences Center College of Nursing, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Nina Sublette
- Marik Moen, PhD, MPH, RN, is an Assistant Professor, University of Maryland Baltimore School of Nursing, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Nina Sublette, PhD, APRN-FNP, AACRN, SANE-P, is an Assistant Professor, University of Tennessee Health Sciences Center College of Nursing, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
- Justin Alves, MSN, FNP-BC, ACRN, CARN, CNE, is a Clinical Nurse Educator with Boston Medical Center's Grayken Center for Addiction Training and Technical Assistance, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Crystal Martin Walker, PhD, DNP, FNP-C, is an Assistant Professor, University of Tennessee Health Sciences Center College of Nursing, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Justin Alves
- Marik Moen, PhD, MPH, RN, is an Assistant Professor, University of Maryland Baltimore School of Nursing, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Nina Sublette, PhD, APRN-FNP, AACRN, SANE-P, is an Assistant Professor, University of Tennessee Health Sciences Center College of Nursing, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
- Justin Alves, MSN, FNP-BC, ACRN, CARN, CNE, is a Clinical Nurse Educator with Boston Medical Center's Grayken Center for Addiction Training and Technical Assistance, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Crystal Martin Walker, PhD, DNP, FNP-C, is an Assistant Professor, University of Tennessee Health Sciences Center College of Nursing, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Crystal Martin Walker
- Marik Moen, PhD, MPH, RN, is an Assistant Professor, University of Maryland Baltimore School of Nursing, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Nina Sublette, PhD, APRN-FNP, AACRN, SANE-P, is an Assistant Professor, University of Tennessee Health Sciences Center College of Nursing, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
- Justin Alves, MSN, FNP-BC, ACRN, CARN, CNE, is a Clinical Nurse Educator with Boston Medical Center's Grayken Center for Addiction Training and Technical Assistance, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Crystal Martin Walker, PhD, DNP, FNP-C, is an Assistant Professor, University of Tennessee Health Sciences Center College of Nursing, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
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12
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Orr CJ, Leslie LK, Schaechter J, Williams XJ, Montez KG, Deen JF, Evans YN, Russell CJ, Webb J, Gaona AR, Mendoza FS. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Child Health, and the Pediatric Subspecialty Workforce. Pediatrics 2024; 153:e2023063678S. [PMID: 38300010 PMCID: PMC10852199 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2023-063678s] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Using multiple metrics, the diversity of the pediatric population in the United States is increasing. However, recent data suggest significant disparities in both the prevalence and management of child health conditions cared for by pediatric subspecialists. These inequities occur across multiple dimensions of diversity, including race and ethnicity, country of origin, socioeconomic status, sex and gender, and disability. Research also suggests that attending to diversity, equity, and inclusion in the medical workforce may positively affect health outcomes. High-quality pediatric subspecialty care thus requires knowledge of these data, attention to the effects of social drivers, including racism and discrimination, on health and wellbeing, and interventions to improve pediatric health equity through educational, practice, policy, and research innovations. In this article, we review data on the diversity of the pediatric population and pediatric subspecialty workforce, suggest potential strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats of current diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives in academic pediatrics, and provide recommendations across 4 domains: education and training, practice, policy, and future research. The ultimate goal of pediatrics is to improve health equity for all infants, children, adolescents, and young adults cared for in the United States by pediatric subspecialists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colin J. Orr
- Department of Pediatrics
- Sheps Center for Health Services Research, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | | | | | | | - Kimberly G. Montez
- Department of Pediatrics, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Jason F. Deen
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington
| | - Yolanda N. Evans
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington
| | | | - Jonathan Webb
- American Board of Pediatrics, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
- Association of Women’s Health Obstetric and Neonatal Nurses, Washington, District of Columbia
| | | | - Fernando S. Mendoza
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford School of Medicine, Palo Alto, California
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13
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Herrmann L, Fahrenkrug S, Bindt C, Becker-Hebly I. [Gender Experiences of Transgender Youth: How Changeable is the Gender Experience of Binary vs. Nonbinary Identifying Transgender Youth and What Factors Are Involved?]. ZEITSCHRIFT FUR KINDER- UND JUGENDPSYCHIATRIE UND PSYCHOTHERAPIE 2024; 52:12-29. [PMID: 37947191 DOI: 10.1024/1422-4917/a000957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
Gender Experiences of Transgender Youth: How Changeable is the Gender Experience of Binary vs. Nonbinary Identifying Transgender Youth and What Factors Are Involved? Abstract: Objectives: Nonbinary gender identities are becoming increasingly visible in transgender healthcare and research. However, little is known about the various gender identities of transgender adolescents - whether they are stable or fluid and which factors influence their gender experience. The present study investigates these different aspects of gender in transgender adolescents with various gender identities. Method: The sample comprised a recent cohort of 114 adolescents diagnosed with gender dysphoria (GD) attending the Hamburg Gender Identity Service for Children and Adolescents (Hamburg GIS). We used the Gender Diversity Questionnaire to assess the different aspects of gender. Results: In total, 83 % of the sample reported a binary (BI) and 17 % a nonbinary gender identity or were still questioning their gender identity (NBGQ). 15-18 % of the transgender adolescents reported gender fluidity. The NBGQ group reported significantly higher levels of gender fluidity or more often that their gender identity was still open to change, respectively, than the BI group. Puberty (79 %), physical distress (70 %), and social media (36 %) were the most frequently mentioned factors influencing their gender experience. Conclusions: The present study underscores that gender experience is not binary and fixed for all transgender adolescents, but that, in some cases, it may be nonbinary or fluid. This heterogeneity, the possible fluidity, and the puberty-related physical distress may challenge treatment decisions in transgender adolescents diagnosed with GD. This situation highlights the importance of developing individualized treatment plans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lena Herrmann
- Klinik für Kinder- und Jugendpsychiatrie, -psychotherapie und -psychosomatik, Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf, Deutschland
| | - Saskia Fahrenkrug
- Klinik für Kinder- und Jugendpsychiatrie, -psychotherapie und -psychosomatik, Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf, Deutschland
| | - Carola Bindt
- Klinik für Kinder- und Jugendpsychiatrie, -psychotherapie und -psychosomatik, Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf, Deutschland
| | - Inga Becker-Hebly
- Klinik für Kinder- und Jugendpsychiatrie, -psychotherapie und -psychosomatik, Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf, Deutschland
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14
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Coyne CA, Huit TZ, Janssen A, Chen D. Supporting the Mental Health of Transgender and Gender-Diverse Youth. Pediatr Ann 2023; 52:e456-e461. [PMID: 38049186 DOI: 10.3928/19382359-20231016-02] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/06/2023]
Abstract
Increasing numbers of youth are identifying as transgender or gender diverse (TGD), meaning their gender identity or expression do not conform to culturally defined expectations for their designated sex at birth. The mental health needs of TGD youth are diverse, and to effectively address these needs requires knowledgeable general pediatric providers, who often are families' first resource for education and support around gender diversity. To help general pediatric providers work more effectively with TGD youth, we describe the role of mental health providers working with TGD youth and how best to support TGD youth's access to gender-affirming mental health and medical interventions. [Pediatr Ann. 2023;52(12):e456-e461.].
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15
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Lai MC. Mental health challenges faced by autistic people. Nat Hum Behav 2023; 7:1620-1637. [PMID: 37864080 DOI: 10.1038/s41562-023-01718-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023]
Abstract
Mental health challenges impede the well-being of autistic people. This Review outlines contributing neurodevelopmental and physical health conditions, rates and developmental trajectories of mental health challenges experienced by autistic people, as well as unique clinical presentations. A framework is proposed to consider four contributing themes to aid personalized formulation: social-contextual determinants, adverse life experiences, autistic cognitive features, and shared genetic and early environmental predispositions. Current evidence-based and clinical-knowledge-informed intervention guidance and ongoing development of support are highlighted for specific mental health areas. Tailored mental health support for autistic people should be neurodivergence-informed, which is fundamentally humanistic and compatible with the prevailing bio-psycho-social frameworks. The personalized formulation should be holistic, considering physical health and transdiagnostic neurodevelopmental factors, intellectual and communication abilities, and contextual-experiential determinants and their interplay with autistic cognition and biology, alongside resilience. Supporting family well-being is integral. Mutual empathic understanding is fundamental to creating societies in which people across neurotypes are all empowered to thrive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng-Chuan Lai
- Margaret and Wallace McCain Centre for Child, Youth & Family Mental Health and Azrieli Adult Neurodevelopmental Centre, Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
- Department of Psychiatry, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Arts and Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
- Department of Psychiatry, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
- Autism Research Centre, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
- Department of Psychiatry, National Taiwan University Hospital and College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan.
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16
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Klinger D, Riedl S, Zesch HE, Oehlke SM, Völkl-Kernstock S, Plener PL, Karwautz A, Kothgassner OD. Mental Health of Transgender Youth: A Comparison of Assigned Female at Birth and Assigned Male at Birth Individuals. J Clin Med 2023; 12:4710. [PMID: 37510824 PMCID: PMC10381113 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12144710] [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: 06/20/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Gender dysphoric adolescents report a gender identity which is incongruent with their assigned sex at birth, whereby the experienced incongruence is accompanied by clinically relevant distress. The aim of the study was to assess and compare the mental health of transgender youth by assigned sex at birth. A total of n = 49 adolescents (n = 29 assigned females at birth, n = 20 assigned male at birth) aged 12 to 18 years with the diagnosis of gender dysphoria according to DSM-5 were included in the study. The adolescents underwent a psychological assessment in a child and adolescent psychiatry outpatient department prior to starting gender-affirming medical treatment, completing relevant mental health questionnaires. Although no differences were found in psychiatric disorders, more externalizing problems above the clinical threshold were reported by parents in assigned female at birth (AFAB) adolescents. On the other hand, internalizing problems, both in general and within the clinical range, were found to be more prevalent in assigned male at birth (AMAB) adolescents, as indicated by self-report. Our results suggest that a comprehensive assessment of mental health in gender dysphoric adolescents is crucial for understanding the diverse range of challenges they may face and tailoring appropriate interventions to address their specific needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Klinger
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
- Comprehensive Center of Pediatrics, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Stefan Riedl
- Comprehensive Center of Pediatrics, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
- St. Anna Children's Hospital, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Heidi Elisabeth Zesch
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
- Comprehensive Center of Pediatrics, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Sofia-Marie Oehlke
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
- Comprehensive Center of Pediatrics, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Sabine Völkl-Kernstock
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
- Comprehensive Center of Pediatrics, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Paul L Plener
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
- Comprehensive Center of Pediatrics, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Andreas Karwautz
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
- Comprehensive Center of Pediatrics, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Oswald D Kothgassner
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
- Comprehensive Center of Pediatrics, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
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