Gender Dysphoria

Bolstering Self-Esteem as Intervention Technique in the Management of Symptoms of Gender Identity Disorder among Adolescents

Treatment Summary: In this study, researchers screened eighty middle school students using a "Gender Identity Disorder Symptom Scales (GIDSS)" from two schools. The adolescents were divided into two groups. Those with high symptoms were the experimental group, and low scores represent the control group. Permissions for students to take part in the study was obtained from school principles. Treatment consisted of an 8-week program, which began with a pre-test management. The treatment consisted of one hour weekly sessions. The first was to lay foundation of trust and expectations. Second meeting included discussion of the nature and concept of gender identity development. Third session discussion of identification of symptoms of gender identity disorders. Fourth course involved changing self-esteem. Fifth session more discussion about using self-esteem to becoming more comfortable with themselves. Sixth session involved teaching participants how to strengthen their self-esteem. Seventh session focused on the reality and consequences of having gender identity disorder. The eighth and final involved a recap of previous sessions. Post-test was given to both the experimental and control group. The control was not provided treatment. The experimental showed a decrease in symptoms as a result of the introduction to goal setting skills, decision making; problem-solving, self-satisfaction and improvement of self-esteem. (Busari, 2013)

• Reference: Busari, A. O. (2013). Bolstering Self-Esteem as Intervention Technique in the Management of Symptoms of Gender Identity Disorder among Adolescents. Gender & Behavior, 11(2), 5535-5545. Retrieved from http://search.ebhost.com.tamuct.idm.oclc.org/login.aspx?direct=true&db=a9h&AN=92507641&site=ebhost-live
• Submitter: Jeannette Vick