In order for children to be assigned the diagnostic category of gender dysphoria under DSM-5 criteria, they must explicitly verbalize their desire to become another gender, in addition to experiencing persistent distress or dysfunction.

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Gender dysphoria is a condition listed in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) that is characterized by an individual feeling distress due to their gender identity being different than their sex assigned at birth.

Gender Dysphoria

Spielman, R. M., Jenkins, W. J., & Lovett, M. D. (2020, April 22). Psychology (2nd ed.). OpenStax. https://openstax.org/books/psychology-2e/pages/1-introduction

OpenStax Psychology (2nd ed.) Textbook

To meet the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for gender dysphoria, an individual's dysphoria must persist for at least six months and result in significant distress or dysfunction. Furthermore, for children to be assigned this diagnostic category, they must explicitly verbalize their desire to become another gender.

DSM-5 Diagnostic Criteria for Gender Dysphoria

In 2019, the World Health Organization reclassified the condition previously known as 'gender identity disorder' to 'gender incongruence,' categorizing it under sexual health rather than a mental disorder. This change reflects the ongoing debate over its psychological diagnostic categorization. Nevertheless, health and mental health professionals note that maintaining a diagnostic category helps ensure that individuals who need treatment or assistance can receive support.

Gender Incongruence

Although the diagnostic categorization of gender dysphoria as a mental disorder is not universally accepted and has been subject to reclassification, health and mental health professionals point out that its presence is practical. The diagnostic category is instrumental in providing necessary support and facilitating treatment for individuals who need professional help.

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