Just to correct any misinformation out there: The APA’s decision to change the name of Gender Identity Disorder to Gender Dysphoria, is just that. It is a change in name. It is not the “elimination” of disordering trans* or otherwise gender variant identities. It is also not being removed from the list of mental illnesses. It is still listed in the DSM, and still classified as a mental illness, and a pathology.
The new wording for Gender Identity Disorder, now to be Gender Dysphoria, changes very little of the overall diagnosis and changes even less about the “treatment” of trans* “patients.” Gender Dysphoria, like Gender Identity Disorder, is not based on identity affirming, harm-reduction models. It is based in non-trans identified speculation on what trans* people need, and what they should want according to normative gender standards. The “flexibility” that Gender Dysphoria is supposed to bring, is better phrased as “over-inclusivity” allowing even more false positives than before, especially in children. What no one is talking about is the other trans* disorder, Transvestic Fetishism, which is not only being relisted in the DSM but has been grossly expanded.
The wording being used by the APA to discuss this change is deliberate. Gender Dysphoria is little more than a bone being thrown to GID removalists/reformists, and possibly a pathetic attempt for the APA to keep up with savvy countries like Cuba, Brazil, France, and Spain who have already denounced trans* pathologization in both word and deed. It does not increase access, address oppression, require training for professionals, or bring societal recognition to our community. It does not aid in the fight against stigma of mental illnesses overall, or within trans* communities, and it does not lessen the impact of mandated therapy and problematic transitional requirements. It does not increase the likelihood of insurance coverage, or help people afford the unaffordable trans* health care.
On a personal note: Please educate yourself on trans* pathologization, and do not reblog information if you don’t truly understand the issue. This is serious and has major impacts on our community. That is best way you can support us. A couple suggestions: Stop Trans* Pathologization and GID Reform.org
FYI: New Diagnosis Gender Dysphoria Does NOT Equal the Elimination of Trans* Pathologization: