Sex and Gender
Discussion Topic
View the videos (you may have to watch a 30 second commercial first). What are your thoughts on the “Princess Boy” & the “Girl Scout” videos? How do you think the parent(s) handled the situation? How do you think the parent’s messages about gender will influence the children’s gender identity? Do you think the children will be teased by their peers or is the reaction of the adults what sets the tone? The first, Princess Boy Video may require you to have flash downloaded, if you cannot view it, please just review the interview and respond based on that.
The Princess Boy Video
Interview with Princess Boy’s Parents
The Girl Scouts
At least 250 words, APA Format
The “Princess Boy” and “Girl Scout” videos are both powerful examples of how parents can support their children’s gender identity. In the “Princess Boy” video, we see a young boy who loves to dress up in princess dresses. His parents are supportive of his interests, and they allow him to express himself in whatever way feels right to him. This kind of support is essential for children who are exploring their gender identity. It helps them to feel safe and accepted, and it allows them to develop a positive sense of self.
In the “Girl Scout” video, we see a young girl who wants to join the Girl Scouts, but she is worried about being teased because she is not a “typical” girl. Her parents reassure her that she can be a Girl Scout no matter what her gender identity is. They also encourage her to be proud of who she is, and to stand up to anyone who tries to make her feel bad about herself. This kind of support is also essential for children who are exploring their gender identity. It helps them to feel confident and empowered, and it allows them to be themselves.
The parent’s messages about gender will have a significant impact on the children’s gender identity. If parents are supportive and open-minded, their children will be more likely to develop a positive sense of self and a healthy understanding of gender. However, if parents are closed-minded or judgmental, their children may be more likely to experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health problems.
It is important to remember that gender is a spectrum, and there is no one right way to be a boy or a girl. Children should be allowed to express themselves in whatever way feels right to them, and they should be supported by their parents and loved ones.
It is also important to note that children may be teased by their peers for their gender expression. However, the reaction of the adults in their lives can play a big role in how they handle this teasing. If the adults are supportive and understanding, the children are more likely to be able to cope with the teasing. However, if the adults are dismissive or judgmental, the children may be more likely to internalize the negative messages and develop low self-esteem.
Parents play a critical role in supporting their children’s gender identity. By being supportive, open-minded, and understanding, parents can help their children to develop a positive sense of self and a healthy understanding of gender.
References
“Gender Identity Development in Children.” American Psychological Association, 2019, www.apa.org/topics/lgbt/gender-identity.aspx.
“Supporting Children’s Gender Identity.” The Trevor Project, 2020, www.thetrevorproject.org/resources/supporting-childrens-gender-identity/.
“Gender Affirming Care for Children and Adolescents.” WPATH, 2023, www.wpath.org/publications/soc/soc_trans_children.pdf.
