Research published in 2026 in Communications Psychology (Nature Portfolio) examines how knowledge about the development of gender identity influences support for the autonomy of transgender minors and for policies related to their identity.
What was studied
In three studies, the authors measured perceptions of when minors reach different milestones of gender identity development and analyzed their relationship with support for gender identity autonomy and for certain legislation.
Main results
Participants tended to believe that transgender minors reach identity development milestones later than cisgender minors, often by a year or more. The authors found an association between correcting that perception and greater support for gender identity autonomy.
The work provides evidence on how outreach and education can influence public attitudes, a relevant aspect for science communication and public debate.
Bibliographic reference: Education about gender development predicts support for transgender youth’s gender identity autonomy. Communications Psychology, 2026. DOI: 10.1038/s44271-026-00510-y.
View the publication: Article on Nature
