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To begin, it is essential to recognize that homosexuality refers to a person's romantic or sexual attraction to individuals of the same gender. It is about an individual's innate orientation, not to be confused with gender identity. On the other hand, transgenderism refers to an individual whose gender identity differs from the sex assigned to them at birth. Gender identity is based on a want regardless of reality or truth. At least that what it has become! The threads of discourse on homosexuality and transgenderism weave a tangled tapestry, fraught with scientific uncertainties, societal conundrums, and existential queries (1. Murphy, T.F. "Our understandings of gender and health are evolving". The Conversation. 8 Jun. 2019. https://theconversation.com/our-understandings-of-gender-and-health-are-evolving-116994). Indeed, what does happen when a male body undergoes protracted exposure to estrogen? Furthermore, how do detransitioners grapple with their previous decisions? LGBT+ initiatives seldom yield precise answers, partially due to a scarcity of comprehensive research (2. Jao, N. “Lack of Knowledge About Transgender Health an ‘Epidemic,’ Study Says,” Scientific American, 24 Sep. 2019, https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/lack-of-knowledge-about-transgender-health-an-epidemic-study-says/).
Sex Hormones and Adolescence: The human adolescent process typically involves the manifestation of secondary sexual characteristics guided by endogenous hormones. When a biological boy partakes in feminizing hormones and vice versa, distinctive physical transitions may be observed. The initial alterations are usually reversing—breast growth in males and increased body and facial hair in females. However, some effects such as fertility impairment could potentially be irrevocable (3. Hembree, Wanda C, et al. "Endocrine Treatment of Gender-Dysphoric/Gender-Incongruent Persons: An Endocrine Society Clinical Practice Guideline." The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, vol. 102, no. 11, 2017, https://academic.oup.com/jcem/article/102/11/3869/4157558). Therefore, the withholding of natural puberty presents a murky, uncharted domain that raises serious physiological and psychological concerns.
The Detransition Conundrum: Recent inquiries into the psychological repercussions of detransition–the process of reverting one’s gender to align with their biological sex–have unveiled mixed findings. Some experience a cathartic release while others are teetering on the brink of regret and distress, compounding a glaring lack of accurate detransitioner statistics (4. Vrouenraets, L. J. J. J., Fredriks, A. M., Hannema, S. E., Cohen-Kettenis, P. T., & de Vries, M. C. (2020). Early Medical Treatment of Children and Adolescents With Gender Dysphoria: An Empirical Ethical Study. Journal of Adolescent Health, 67(3), https://www.jahonline.org/article/S1054-139X(20)30189-8/fulltext).
Born Vs Made - Homosexuality Vs Transgenderism: Historically, homosexuality has been regarded as an innate characteristic, comparable to skin color or IQ, due to its genetic underpinnings. Numerous studies, such as the one conducted by Sanders et al. (2015), have provided evidence of the genetic linkage and have reinforced the notion that sexual orientation is inherent and unchangeable. It is crucial that we acknowledge and respect this understanding, treating homosexuality as a natural aspect of human diversity.
On the other hand, transgenderism is a choice, as it involves the administration of hormonal treatments and surgeries. However, this perspective fails to consider the underlying psychological and biological factors that drive individuals towards gender transition. The dynamics of sex hormone intervention during the formative stages of development and the psychological effects on detransitioners remain poorly understood. Consequently, it is imperative that we approach this topic with an open mind and commitment to thorough investigation.
Our society should not be defined by a myopic perception that oversimplifies the complexities of gender identity. While homosexuality is commonly seen as immutable, like physical attributes, we must recognize that the journey towards transgenderism is not merely a matter of personal choice. It encompasses a multitude of influences, including biological, psychological, and social factors.
In light of this realization, I implore you to support robust scientific inquiry into the complexities surrounding both homosexuality and transgenderism. It is by expanding our understanding that we can break barriers and move toward a society that embraces diversity and upholds the dignity and rights of all. Through research, we can dispel myths, challenge stereotypes, and pave the way for a more inclusive future. The discussions around homosexuality and transgenderism demand our attention, empathy, and a commitment to scientific discovery. By acknowledging the genetic underpinnings of homosexuality and embracing the nuanced understanding of gender transition, we can foster an environment that celebrates diversity and supports the well-being of all individuals.
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References:
1. Murphy, T.F. (2019, June 8). Our understandings of gender and health are evolving. The Conversation. https://theconversation.com/our-understandings-of-gender-and-health-are-evolving-116994.
2. Jao, N. (2019, Sept 24). Lack of Knowledge About Transgender Health an ‘Epidemic,’ Study Says. Scientific American. https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/lack-of-knowledge-about-transgender-health-an-epidemic-study-says/.
3. Hembree, W.C., et al (2017). Endocrine Treatment of Gender-Dysphoric/ Gender-Incongruent Persons: An Endocrine Society Clinical Practice Guideline. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 102, 3869-3903. https://academic.oup.com/jcem/article/102/11/3869/4157558.
4. Vrouenraets, L. J., Fredriks, M. A., Hannema, A. E., Cohen-Kettenis, M. P., & de Vries, A. C. (2020). Early Medical Treatment of Children and Adolescents with Gender Dysphoria: An Empirical Ethical Study. Journal of Adolescent Health, 67, 549-556. https://www.jahonline.org/article/S1054-139X(20)30189-8/fulltext.
5.Sanders, A.R., et al (2015). Genome-wide scan demonstrates significant linkage for male sexual orientation. Psychological Medicine, 45(7), 1379-1387. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25399360/.
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