Description
306: Emerging Gender Identities: Current Controversies and Christian Considerations
Mark Yarhouse, Psy.D.
Wheaton College
501 College Ave.
Wheaton, IL 60187
Summary
Christian counselors may be familiar with recent discussions of transgender experiences and approaches to care. But what has happened in recent years regarding trends in both gender identity and care for minors? In this workshop, we will discuss emerging gender identities, such as gender non-binary, genderqueer, gender creative, and gender expansive experiences, as well as controversies in care for youth today, such as the use of puberty blockers, medical transition, and late-onset cases. We will also discuss Christian considerations for counseling youth and their families as we strive for best practice when working with youth navigating gender identity and faith.
Learning Objectives
Participants will:
• Name and describe three explanatory frameworks for understanding gender identity, transgender experiences, and emerging gender identities
• Identify three areas of current controversy in care for minors
• Formulate strategies for working with families as a psychologist or licensed mental health professional in which a young person experiences gender identity questions
