A 16-year-old natal girl has expressed a strong desire to be a boy for the past 2 years, insists on using a male name and he/him pronouns, prefers boys' clothing and short hair, and consistently states she is a boy. She shows persistent dislike of feminine anatomical features. According to DSM-5, what is the minimum duration required for a diagnosis of Gender Dysphoria in children?
- A 3 months
- B 6 months ✓
- C 12 months
- D 18 months
Correct answer: B. 6 months
Explanation
DSM-5 specifies that Gender Dysphoria in children requires a duration of at least 6 months, evidenced by at least six criteria including a strong desire to be of the other gender, strong preference for cross-gender roles in play, and strong preference for toys and activities stereotypically associated with the other gender. The 6-month duration applies across all age groups, though the required number of criteria and specific manifestations differ between children and adolescents/adults.
Reference: Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.