Gender dysphoria and intellectual disability: Presentation, diagnosis and course

Abstract

Objectives: What are the differences in presentation and course in gender dysphoria (as defined by DSM-5) in people with ID compared to the general population? Methods: A literature search was carried out from 1966 to 2014 of all major medical databases. Experts in the field were contacted for unpublished results. Results: The papers found through the literature search will be discussed, including Parkes et al 2009 and Bedard et al 2010. Conclusions: People with intellectual disability often present later in life, sometimes after a change in circumstance e.g. a parent dying or moving out of a long stay institution. Mode of presentation can be cross dressing, challenging behaviour. The cross dressing itself can be seen as a challenge to networks. Some as adults show delayed development in gender constancy and also mistaken beliefs. There can be late remissions. People may experience stigma, victimisation or abuse.