Discussing Gender Identity with Teens

Issues with gender identity are common in teens. Many teens struggle with self-identity, which is natural at a time when teens are coming to terms with who they are. Discussing gender identity with teens can be an important part of ensuring their overall wellbeing. Teens who often struggle with gender identity feel scared, and often hide the challenges they are facing. A recent article by NPR highlights on the importance of discussing gender identity with teens.

The Difficult Process of Gender Identity

Discussing gender identity with teens helps them understand the difficult challenges many transgender people face. It’s important to be supportive, but educate them on the process and challenges transgender people go through to make a transition to publicly present themselves as a different gender.

There are possible surgeries and hormone treatments, but the struggle that is often overlooked is the struggle to find a voice to fit a person’s identity. Voice recognition is something that is a key component of individual’s ability to recognize someone’s gender. Many transgender individuals struggle with society accepting them as their new gender due to issues with voice.

Speech Therapy for Gender Identity

There are multiple programs available that help transgender individuals work on their voice to fit their gender identity. Most of the participants are seeking to allow the world to perceive them in the way they want to be perceived. Communication and discussing gender identity with teens is a critical component. If teens wish to achieve this, they need safe places to practice and try things, and a speech therapy room can be one of those places.

Providing a safe space when discussing gender identity with teens can ensure teens feel comfortable to open up about their struggles. Gender stereotypes are also a common issues associated with gender identity. Speech, the transitioning process, and publicly announcing their transition may all create negative experiences with gender stereotypes and bullying. It’s important that teens have someone supporting them and available to discusses the issues they are having.

Elevations RTC can help

Elevations RTC is a leading residential treatment center for teens, ages 13 to 18, grappling with anxiety, depression, substance use, and other emotional or behavioral issues. As a residential treatment center for teens, we try to go above and beyond other RTC’s by having not only one on-site psychiatrist, but two practitioners who see each student weekly. We also have an academic component that uses an accredited curriculum and licensed/credentialed teachers. With all of this, we strive to give each student the most efficient and beneficial experience possible.

For more information about Elevations RTC, please call today!