by Ram ben Ze'ev
In recent years, the concept of gender transition has gained increasing attention and acceptance. While advocating for the mental health support of individuals, we must remain vigilant in safeguarding the rights and overall well-being of children. The practice of genital and breast mutilation, whether it's on boys or girls, in aid of transition, known as 'trans-mutilation', raises ethical, medical, and human rights concerns.
Gender dysphoria is a term that describes a sense of unease that a person may have because their biological sex does not align with their perception of reality. This condition can appear severe and can lead some children and previously untreated adults to express a desire to take drastic steps to make it appear as though their external appearance aligns with their internal identity. While these feelings should be taken seriously, it is crucial to acknowledge that the prefrontal cortex, responsible for decision-making and impulse control, is still developing during childhood. This developmental stage necessitates careful consideration of the implications of any life-altering medical interventions. Untreated, these feelings can manifest during adulthood.
Trans-mutilation, also known as sex reassignment surgery or genital surgery, involves surgically altering a child's genitalia or the healthy breasts of girls and women to align with the gender they identify with. This invasive procedure poses significant risks, including surgical complications, sterilization, and long-term psychological consequences. For young children who are unable to give informed consent, this decision should not rest in the hands of parents or guardians.
Medical procedures that fundamentally alter a child's physical form should only be considered when the individual is capable of providing informed consent. Children lack the cognitive and emotional maturity to understand the full consequences of such a life-altering decision.
Reputable medical professionals must advocate for the rights of the child, ensuring that their interests are safeguarded throughout any decision-making process.
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Mutilating the genitals of boys and girls and the removal of healthy breasts in girls for gender transition pursuits raises serious human rights concerns. The United Nations and other international organisations have consistently condemned non-consensual genital mutilation, emphasising that all individuals have the right to bodily autonomy and the right to be free from torture, cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment. Such practices violate these fundamental human rights and must be stopped.
Children questioning their gender identity require appropriate mental health support and guidance. Pushing them towards irreversible medical interventions will have harmful psychological consequences. Studies have shown that a significant number of children with gender dysphoria will not persist in these feelings through adolescence and adulthood. Premature genital and breast mutilation can lead to deep regret, depression, and even suicidal ideation for those who may have otherwise desisted from transitioning.
Mutilating the genitals of boys and girls and removing healthy breasts of girls for the sake of gender transition is an ethically questionable practice that infringes upon their rights and poses significant medical and psychological risks. Instead, we should prioritise alternative approaches that focus on comprehensive mental health support. By doing so, we can ensure that every child is given the opportunity to acknowledge their identity and reality in a safe and supportive environment, free from irreversible consequences.
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Bill White (Ram ben Ze'ev) is CEO of WireNews and Executive Director of Hebrew Synagogue