Document Type

Review

Keywords

Diagnosis; Gender Dysphoria; Gender Incongruence; School Age; Youth Population

Abstract

Objective: Specifically, through this review, I aim to explore the barriers influencing clinicians when diagnosing gender dysphoria in youth populations. The objective of this scoping review is to understand the extent and type of evidence in relation to this topic.

Introduction: The existing literature highlights significant uncertainty among mental health professionals in diagnosing and providing care for transgender and gender-diverse youth, posing substantial challenges for tailored support. This scoping review aims to condense the extant literature on the variables impacting clinicians’ diagnosis of gender dysphoria in children and adolescents, addressing critical gaps and providing a comprehensive resource for stakeholders.

Inclusion criteria: A study was deemed eligible if it addressed the topics of gender dysphoria diagnosis in youth populations and the involvement of clinicians. In order to refine the search, terms were defined, specifying youth populations ranging from Pre-K to College, within the ages of three to 21. The study controlled for specific population characteristics such as age, with no restrictions applied regarding race, educational status, employment status (casual, part-time, full-time, permanent, or contract), or country of origin.

Methods: Peer-reviewed articles published in English from 2013 to 2024 were included based on a systematic search across databases including APA PsycInfo, PubMed, CINAHL, ERIC, Embase, LGBTQ+, Scopus and Academic Search Elite. The search was conducted in June 2024 using predefined key terms related to clinicians diagnosing gender dysphoria in youth populations. Grey literature, such as dissertations, government reports, and policy documents, was excluded. Articles meeting inclusion criteria were uploaded to Covidence for study selection. Extracted data were analyzed through content analysis to identify key themes and patterns seen in the literature describing the variables clinicians face when assessing gender dysphoria in youth populations. An inductive approach was used and the categories were established based on the data itself. This involves synthesizing and interpreting the findings to gain insights into the barriers influencing the diagnosis of gender dysphoria in youth populations.No notable deviations from the methodological approach were encountered.

Results (For Reviews ONLY): TBD

Conclusions (For Reviews ONLY): TBD

Databases/Repositories Searched

PubMed, Embase.com, CINAHL, Scopus, APA PsycInfo (EBSCO)R, Other

ERIC, LGBTQ+, Scopus and Academic Search Elite

Funding

School of Education Dissertation Grant Award

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