How this Affects Society
As briefly mentioned in the political articles, the misuse of the terms 'gender' and 'sex' can lead to many mental health problems for those who are affected, which are primarily those who identify as different genders than their biological sexes, or are intersex (which make up approximately 2-3% of the United States population). Though such a small percentage of our society, it is about 6,802,000-10,203,000 individuals who are negatively impacted.
An example of the psychological harm that is possible from the confusion of these terms comes from Gabe, a 14-year-old transgender boy. He hoped that gender-affirming medical care would help him present more like himself.
When strangers saw him in public, they often addressed him using male pronouns, until he spoke. His voice did not reflect who he was, and this caused people to misgender him, which only added to the anxiety and dysmorphia that began when he started puberty.
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“Even when I wasn’t sure why the changes felt wrong, I just knew they were,” Gabe said, reflecting on his experience attempting to navigate his changing body.
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To treat his dysphoria, Gabe’s parents consulted a doctor who explained how testosterone could help him feel more comfortable in his body. Gabe knew it was right for him. “I want to be in a grown-up male body when I’m older,” he says. “I want the choice to tell people, not to be revealed by my voice.”
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Gabe hoped to begin testosterone treatments in March 2025, but the administration’s new actions and policies put his plans at risk. Gabe is now fearful that he won’t have the choice to present as he truly is.
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Though this is only one example, there are many instances where the new policies and regulations have lead individuals to severe depression, stress, anxiety, and have resulted in individuals going down self-harm routes. This is the essential reason why it is extremely important to be aware of the difference between 'sex' and 'gender.'