Biological and social explanations for gender dysphoria
Psychologists disagree about what causes gender dysphoria. Some point to biological factors like genes and hormones. Others argue that social experiences during childhood shape a person's gender identity.
Real World
Research on individuals with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) — where female foetuses are exposed to elevated androgens — shows higher rates of gender dysphoria, supporting a biological, prenatal hormonal explanation.
Exam Focus
Present both biological and social explanations, then evaluate using evidence quality — examiners reward balanced arguments over one-sided accounts.
Evaluation Scaffold
A four-step framework for high-quality evaluation. Use this for 'assess', 'evaluate', and 'to what extent' questions.
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