SFU professor's book explores challenges of growing up transgender

While human rights laws and school policies in Canadahave come a long way in protecting the rights of transgenderchildrenin recent years, the lives ofthose kids are still often exceedingly challenging.

That's the subject of SFU associate professorAnnTravers'new bookThe Trans Generation: How Trans Kids (and Their Parents) Are Creating a Gender Revolution.

"We're seeing more kids who identify as trans," said Travers, adding that'sbecause there are moretransadults visible in the world,but also because parents are becoming more accepting.

"Often this happens with children whoseparents haven't given gender a lot of thought," said Travers, whointerviewed dozens of children thatidentify as transwhile researching thebook.

"They love their kid ... And they educate themselves and come to the very wise decision that the best thing they can do is get behind their kid and advocate for them."

Societal pressures

Travers said it can devastating for a transchild when their parents don't support them and enforce gender norms.

Researchalso shows that the majority of transchildren hide their gender because of societal pressures they encounter at school and in their communities, said Travers.

"Their families, communities andschools can besuch dangerous places for people who don't conform to gender norms," said Travers.

"You're going to see incredible mental health consequences and all kinds of things."

Traverssaid one boy interviewed for the bookhad been so brutally bullied by his peers that he often had to miss school. Hewas attacked by classmates and attempted to take his own life.

Another interviewee shared the story of being called an "abomination" by their father after sharing their gender identity.

However, despite transchildren often facing discrimination,Travers said there certainly has been a recent change in society towardacceptance.

"We're seeing a significant shift, in thatmore so-called regular moms and dads are supporting trans people'srights to exist and be respected," said Travers.

"They want their child to grow up and be safe and welcome in society."

With files from The Early Edition