Psychiatric characteristics in transsexual individuals: multicentre study in four European countries. (February 2014)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Heylens, Gunter; Elaut, Els; Kreukels, Baudewijntje P. C.; Paap, Muirne C. S.; Cerwenka, Susanne; Richter-Appelt, Hertha; Cohen-Kettenis, Peggy T.; Haraldsen, Ira R.; De Cuypere, Griet
• Is Part Of: British journal of psychiatry. Volume 204:Number 2(2014)
• Page Start: 151
• Page End: 156
• Publication Date: 2014-02
• Subjects: Psychiatry -- Periodicals; Psychology, Pathological -- Periodicals; 616.89005
• DOI: 10.1192/bjp.bp.112.121954
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0007-1250

Abstract

Abstract : Background: Research into the relationship between gender identity disorder and psychiatric problems has shown contradictory results. Aims: To investigate psychiatric problems in adults fulfilling DSM-IVTR criteria for a diagnosis of gender identity disorder. Method: Data were collected within the European Network for the Investigation of Gender Incongruence using the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview – Plus and the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV Axis II Disorders ( n = 305). Results: In 38% of the individuals with gender identity disorder a current DSM-IV-TR Axis I diagnosis was found, mainly affective disorders and anxiety disorders. Furthermore, almost 70% had a current and lifetime diagnosis. All four countries showed a similar prevalence, except for affective and anxiety disorders, and no difference was found between individuals with early-onset and late-onset disorder. An Axis II diagnosis was found in 15% of all individuals with gender identity disorder, which is comparable to the general population. Conclusions: People with gender identity disorder show more psychiatric problems than the general population; mostly affective and anxiety problems are found.