Children
Trans children face constant pressure to conform, and even rejection by parents and bullying or violence in school. The media frequently condone, praise and even act as cheerleaders for such discrimination.
Most trans people know that something’s ‘not right’ at an early age. Research shows that most conceal this incongruence early on, and internalise their feelings. This may lead to psychological problems. 35% per cent of trans adults have made at least one suicide attempt – way above the national average. Many cite the media as a major factor in not addressing their gender issues sooner. Watching trans people ridiculed and condemned by the media, throughout one’s childhood, can have that effect.
Medical therapy has been successfully pioneered which, working within careful, international guidelines, enables children to delay their puberty with blockers. In the media, young children are frequently said to have had surgery or hormone therapy. In fact, blockers are entirely reversible and are the only medical therapy recommended for prescription to children. Parents who support their children are frequently accused by the media of child abuse, and subjected to huge amounts of unnecessary stress. This misinformation colours the preconceptions of family members, parents of other children and teachers. How can such misinformation be challenged?
Next Problem: Media & Headlines
Trackbacks