TL;DR
- New research debunks the 90% desistance myth.
- Study shows trans identity persistence rates vary.
- Legislation should be based on accurate science.
- Old studies used in claims were flawed.
- Current data supports trans youth care.
In a groundbreaking new study, researchers from Virginia Commonwealth University have thrown a wrench in the right-wing narrative that suggests a staggering 90% of trans children will simply “grow out of it.” Yes, you heard that right. This so-called “desistance” myth has been peddled for years, but it’s time to face the facts, darling.
The study, titled Desistance: A multimethod review of the literature on gender identity variability in transgender and gender diverse youth, was published in the scientific journal Psychology of Sexual Orientation and Gender Diversity. It dives deep into the murky waters of gender identity and reveals that the truth is far more complex than the simplistic claims made by some.
For years, a blog post from 2016 has been the go-to source for those arguing that a vast majority of trans youth will eventually revert to identifying as cisgender. But this new research has taken a scalpel to those claims, analyzing 11 studies that were referenced in that controversial post, along with five newer studies. And guess what? The findings are shocking!
According to the researchers, the rates of desistance—when a child who identifies as trans stops doing so—could range from as low as 0% to as high as 100%, depending on how one interprets the data. That’s right, folks! The numbers are as fluid as gender itself. And the rates of persistence, or the ongoing identification as trans, fall into the same confusing range.
Dr. Catherine Wall, the lead author of the study, made it crystal clear: “We should rely on accuracy with our science, and we should rely on accurate science to guide legislation.” Preach! The study emphasizes the importance of basing laws and policies on sound scientific evidence rather than outdated or misleading information.
Dr. Wall continued, “We were particularly interested in examining this idea of the concept of trans identity desistance because it’s a number that has been bandied about for years as if it’s 100% accurate. And we wanted to take a deeper look, especially because it’s currently being used for things like legislation and bans of best-practice gender-affirming care in 26 states.” Talk about a wake-up call!
It’s high time we put the myths to rest and start focusing on what truly matters: the well-being and rights of trans youth. The narrative that most trans children will simply abandon their identities is not only misleading but harmful. With this new research, we have the opportunity to advocate for better policies that support and affirm the identities of young people.
So, let’s raise our voices and demand that legislation reflects the reality of trans experiences. After all, science is on our side, and it’s about time we let it guide us toward a more inclusive future. 🏳️⚧️✨
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