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[–]BewitchedSam 10 insightful - 1 fun10 insightful - 0 fun11 insightful - 1 fun -  (3 children)

I'm guessing this comes from the researchers misinterpretation. I have ASD and no one has ever told me they could cure it. I've always been told I can be taught how to manage symptoms and build social skills. It would make sense for a clinician to try to address other mental health concerns before approving transition. I'd argue its good practice even, but I can't imagine any clinical psychologist suggesting they could cure autism or to be frank any mental health issue. They typically look for ways to treat and manage symptoms. Using the term 'cure' could set up an unrealistic expectation for treatment even with things like anxiety, depression or PTSD.

[–]slushpilot 5 insightful - 1 fun5 insightful - 0 fun6 insightful - 1 fun -  (1 child)

Using the term 'cure' could set up an unrealistic expectation

Just like using the term 'transition' and recommending that in the absence of a cure...

[–]BewitchedSam 4 insightful - 1 fun4 insightful - 0 fun5 insightful - 1 fun -  (0 children)

I agree vehemently. Telling someone that transitioning will cure their gender dysphoria which will then cure their depression and anxiety and give them self confidence sets up extremely unrealistic and unhealthy expectations. There are also unrealistic expectations with how transition will turn out. They have expectations they'll become handsome men or beautiful women and they very very rarely do. I feel bad for these people.

[–]TurtleFuzz 4 insightful - 1 fun4 insightful - 0 fun5 insightful - 1 fun -  (0 children)

I agree, any other mental health issues should be addressed, and made sure that the patient has them under control before talking about transitioning. Thanks so much for your reply and sharing your experiences!