A 1991 study examining the relationship between mothers of boys with gender dysphoria (GD) and borderline personality disorder (BPD) has resurfaced, sparking renewed discussion in the context of today's social climate. The original study, published in the Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, found that a significant percentage of mothers of sons with GD met the criteria for BPD. This has led to questions about whether similar findings would emerge if the study were replicated today.
Experts offer differing perspectives on this question. Dr. Nina Silander suggests that similar results might be observed, possibly even more pronounced due to increased social incentives surrounding non-cisgender identities. However, she emphasizes the need to address the limitations of the original study, such as the small sample size, exclusion of fathers, and lack of focus on daughters with GD.
Dr. Robert D. Mather, on the other hand, believes that a contemporary study might yield weaker results. He attributes this to the diverse and potentially socially influenced origins of GD cases today, which could introduce more statistical noise. However, he acknowledges the possibility of a stronger effect if the original study's proposed symbiosis between mother and child holds true.
Protestors supporting trans-identifying minors during a rally.
A protester at a rally holding a sign about gender as a social construct.
Transgender Pride flag with the slogan "Trans Lives Matter."
The discussion around this study unfolds against a backdrop of increased visibility and activism related to transgender issues. Recent controversies, such as transgender activists displaying their bodies at the White House Pride event and parents documenting their children's gender transitions on social media, have further fueled the debate.
Dr. Mather notes the study's unique perspective, conducted before the current cultural and political landscape surrounding gender. He acknowledges the small sample size but considers it understandable given the rarity of GD at the time.
Dr. Silander points out the potential social currency associated with sexual minority identities today, suggesting that psychologically vulnerable parents might be more susceptible to pursuing this status for their children. She also raises concerns about negative attitudes towards masculinity within some feminist circles, potentially influencing parental discomfort with traditional masculine traits in their sons.
Attempts to reach the original study authors and relevant organizations for comment were unsuccessful.
