Age Specific Patient Care Related

Review Age Specific Patient Care related questions and content

A parent who is very concerned about a 3-year-old son says, 'He likes to play with girls' toys. Do you think he is homosexual or mentally ill?' Which response by the nurse most professionally describes the current understanding of gender identity?

  • A. A child's interest in the activities of the opposite gender is not unusual or related to sexuality. Most children do not carry cross-gender interests into adulthood.
  • B. It's difficult to say for sure because the research is incomplete so far, but chances are that he will grow up to be a normal adult.
  • C. The research is incomplete, but many boys play with girls' toys and turn out normal as adults.
  • D. I am sure that whatever happens, he will be a loving son, and you will be a proud parent.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because it accurately reflects the current understanding of gender identity. Children's interests in activities typically associated with the opposite gender are not unusual and are not indicative of sexual orientation or mental illness. Most children who exhibit cross-gender interests do not carry these into adulthood. This response emphasizes the normalcy of such behavior and provides reassurance to the parent.

Choice B is incorrect because it implies uncertainty based on incomplete research, which goes against the established understanding that cross-gender interests in childhood are common and not predictive of future outcomes.

Choice C is incorrect because it focuses on incomplete research and uses the term "normal as adults," which can perpetuate stigmas surrounding gender expression.

Choice D is incorrect because it does not address the parent's concerns about the child's behavior and does not provide accurate information about gender identity development.