If You Had A Child Who Said That They Didn't Want To Be A Boy But Wanted To Be A Girl, Or Vice Versa, What Would You Do?

[Atheist]

Would you seek to understand them? Or forbid them from ever mentioning it again? Or explain that religion didn't allow such thoughts? Or say that human beings are allowed to think whatever they wish?

[Maydup]

I would seek to understand them and talk about it. Depends on their age as to what to do next, but none of the negative options for sure.

[Bobbisox1]

I’d never forbid them talking about it and religion wouldn’t enter into it,I’d try hard to be supportive and find out as much as I could about what it entails , what else could a parent do?

[naomi24]

I would listen and say wait and see how you feel when you’re older. What we want as a child - or even as an 18 year old - often turns out to be very different at 30.

[ClareTG0ld]

I'd support Maydup and Bobbisox's approach. Talk to them, let them know they're loved no matter what, and give them the space needed to explore this feeling.

[Deskdiary]

I would say...

"If you still the same in way in five years time, we'll address it".

[Atheist]

2 out of 5 responses so far refer to the child possibly changing their mind as they mature. I think that's quite possible and that the child should hear that sort of advice, as long as it's done sensitively.

[Old_Geezer]

Obviously you'd talk it over. Explain that we all have things in life we would prefer to be different, and that accepting oneself is one key thing to being happy in life. That he may well feel differently when he gets to adulthood, or maybe even sooner.

[Atheist]

I'm pleased to receive replies that are not based on deep-rooted dogma which allows no nuance. It cheers me to see decent people making thoughtful comments which respect the feelings of youngsters who are facing up to life's questions. No politics here,

[douglas9401]

A great man once wrote:

I was once like you are now
And I know that it's not easy
To be calm when you've found
Something going on
But take your time, think a lot
Think of everything you've got
For you will still be here tomorrow
But your dreams may not

[Atheist]

Dougie. Who was that great man?

[douglas9401]

Cat Stevens/Yusuf Islam/Yusuf

[Atheist]

Thanks, Doug...

[elliemay1]

[jourdain2]

Depends on their age. I have, effectively, been in this situation with a genuine case of gender dysmorphia - the numbers are vanishingly small.