Transgender individuals have been part of human history for centuries, yet their identities were not well understood until recently. In recent decades, there has been increasing awareness and acceptance of trans people's identities. This trend includes more trans children coming out to their families, seeking medical intervention at younger ages than previously thought necessary, and advocating for themselves politically.
Some argue that parents should not allow their children to change genders before reaching adulthood because it could negatively impact their mental health. What ethical principles should guide public discourse about trans minors?
One ethical principle is respecting autonomy. Trans youth who feel they are not the gender assigned at birth may seek hormonal treatment to align their bodies with their identity. Parents can support this decision without forcing it upon them. Instead, they must listen carefully, validate their child's feelings, provide accurate information about transitioning, and help find resources if needed. Respecting autonomy means allowing young people to make choices based on their own values, even when those choices differ from one's own beliefs or experiences.
Another ethical principle is nonmaleficence. Nonmaleficence involves avoiding harm while providing care. Some critics of trans youth medical interventions claim these procedures cause physical and psychological damage. While some risks exist, studies show that medical interventions are safe and beneficial for most patients.
Puberty blockers prevent unwanted changes in secondary sex characteristics while giving time for a young person to explore their identity before making permanent changes like hormone therapy or surgery.
A third ethical principle is beneficence. Beneficence requires promoting good and minimizing harm. This ethical guideline applies to both trans youth and others seeking care. Doctors should prioritize the well-being of all patients, including addressing underlying issues such as depression or anxiety that might complicate transitioning. They should also ensure that parents understand the long-term effects of treatments and how to manage them effectively.
Doctors should not prescribe unnecessary medications or surgeries just because they have access to them.
The fourth ethical principle is justice. Justice requires fairness in distributing benefits and burdens. Transgender individuals face many challenges, including discrimination in housing, employment, healthcare, education, and other areas. These disparities can lead to poverty, homelessness, violence, and mental health problems. Therefore, advocates must work towards creating equitable societies where everyone has equal opportunities regardless of gender expression.
Fidelity means being loyal to established professional standards. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) advises parents who support their child's gender identity to seek advice from qualified providers trained in caring for LGBTQ+ patients. They should avoid practitioners who are biased against trans people or who promote conversion therapy, which seeks to change sexual orientation or gender identity. Parents should also look into policies regarding school dress codes and bathroom use to protect their children's privacy and safety.
Public discussions about trans minors require ethical principles like respecting autonomy, nonmaleficence, beneficence, justice, and fidelity. By applying these guidelines, we can create a more inclusive world where all people feel safe, accepted, and supported in exploring their identities without shame or stigma.
What ethical principles should guide public discourse about trans minors?
The ethical principles that should govern public discourse on transgender minors are privacy, respect for autonomy, informed consent, non-maleficence, beneficence, justice, veracity, and social responsibility. Privacy refers to the right of individuals to maintain their personal identity without interference from others. Respecting autonomy means giving people the freedom to make decisions based on their beliefs and preferences.