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Semin Reprod Med 2012; 30(05): 443-452
DOI: 10.1055/s-0032-1324729
Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Psychological Aspects of the Treatment of Patients with Disorders of Sex Development

David E. Sandberg
1   Division of Child Behavioral Health, Department of Pediatrics & Communicable Diseases, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
,
Melissa Gardner
1   Division of Child Behavioral Health, Department of Pediatrics & Communicable Diseases, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
,
Peggy T. Cohen-Kettenis
2   Division of Gender and Sexuality, Department of Medical Psychology and Medical Social Work, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
› Author Affiliations
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Publication History

Publication Date:
08 October 2012 (online)

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Abstract

Research on the psychological development of persons with Disorders of Sex Development (DSD) has focused on understanding the influence of atypical sex hormone exposure during steroid-sensitive periods of prenatal brain development on the process of psychosexual differentiation (i.e., gender identity, gender role, and sexual orientation). In contrast, analysis of clinical management strategies has focused on gender assignment and the desirability and timing of genital surgery.

This review focuses on the psychological issues that confront clinicians managing the care of persons born with DSD and their families. Particular attention is paid to processes and factors that potentially mediate or moderate psychosocial and psychosexual outcomes within and across developmental stages.

Keywords

disorders of sex development - DSD - psychosocial - psychosexual - gender identity - gender role - sexual orientation
 

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