Supporting Nonbinary Teens with Ivy

Jun 14, 2023

Dr. Cam talks with Ivy, a college student and artist who identifies as nonbinary. They discuss the challenges faced by nonbinary teens, including mental health issues and lack of support. Ivy emphasizes the importance of finding solace within LGBTQ+ communities and engaging in activism. The podcast explores the significance of listening without judgment and supporting kids' gender identity. It also highlights the role of open conversations and parental support in creating a safe environment for nonbinary teens.

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Introduction

00:00 • 3min

Prioritizing a Person First

02:38 • 11min

Trusting Yourself and Challenging Misconceptions

14:02 • 2min

Understanding Kids and Gender Identity

16:31 • 12min

Supporting Nonbinary Teens through Open Conversations

28:17 • 3min

Although there is still a lot that we need to learn, societal understanding and awareness of nonbinary identities is improving. Nonbinary often experience a gender identity that falls outside of the male/female binary and may choose to use gender-neutral pronouns such as "they/them" instead of he/him or she/her. Teens who identify as nonbinary may experiment with different gender expressions, including clothing, hairstyles, and accessories, to find what aligns with their authentic selves.

Research suggests that nonbinary teens may face higher rates of mental health challenges compared to cisgender (non-transgender) peers, including increased levels of anxiety, depression, self-harm, and suicidality. This has been attributed to high rates of societal discrimination, misgendering, exclusion, bullying, and a lack of supportive resources.

Many nonbinary teens find solace and support within LGBTQ+ communities, online platforms, and youth organizations. They often engage in activism, advocating for their rights, gender equality, and inclusion in various aspects of society.

In this episode, Dr. Cam talks with one of these brave advocates, Ivy, a college student and artist who also happens to identify as nonbinary. Ivy shares their story, explains what it’s like to try to be their authentic self in a world that’s not always accepting, and provides some insight into how we can best support our own children who may not identify with a traditional label.

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