3. How Jennifer Helped Her Daughter Desist

When her impressionable 10-year-old daughter claimed to be transgender, Jennifer recognized it as a cry for help, and did everything in her power to understand the issue. With the help of her therapist, family, and community, Jennifer was able to identify and provide the type of support her daughter truly needed. Today, Jennifer’s daughter accepts herself just as she is, and doesn’t want the medical alterations so many parents fear could damage their children’s health permanently. Listen as Jennifer shares her insights about what helped her family. 

Along the way, we discuss ethical issues in therapy and education. What is the Karpman Drama Triangle? Why is it important that therapists watch out for our own savior complex? What psychological motives might someone have for adopting a certain narrative or identity? And why is it such a problem that “conversion therapy” has been redefined?

Jennifer co-founded Partners for Ethical Care. She hosts and produces The Witness Podcast, in which volunteers read anonymous stories of children and families who have been affected by gender identity, including parents and detransitioners. They welcome hearing from others as well, including teachers and doctors. If you have a story to share, or a question to ask, get in touch: support@partnersforethicalcare.com. You can also follow Jennifer and PEC on Twitter @ethical_care.

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Show notes & transcript provided with the help of SwellAI.

Special thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our theme song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude and permission.

Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care (our medical ethics documentary, formerly known as Affirmation Generation). Stream the film or purchase a DVD. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation or Instagram at @affirmationgeneration.

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