What proportion of trans kids regret transitioning?

1. Summary of the results

The proportion of trans kids who regret transitioning is a complex and multifaceted issue, with varying estimates depending on the study and population sampled ^[1]. Some studies suggest that regret after adult gender-affirming surgery is rare, with estimates ranging from 0.3-0.6% in Dutch cohorts ^[1]. However, more recent studies of youth and recent adults show higher rates of detransition or regret, with estimates ranging from 5-12% or higher ^[1]. A commentary notes that the true proportion of trans-kid regret is unknown due to methodological limitations, including short follow-up periods and biased measurement ^[2]. In contrast, a survey of 220 transgender teens found that only 4% expressed regret about any aspect of their gender-affirming care, while over 50% rated their satisfaction at the maximum level ^{[3] [4]}. Another study found that 13.1% of transgender and gender diverse people reported a history of detransition, often due to external pressures such as family rejection and societal stigma ^[5].

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints

A crucial aspect missing from the original statement is the context of regret and detransition, which can be influenced by various factors such as external pressures, societal stigma, and individual experiences ^{[5] [6]}. The analyses highlight the importance of considering the diversity of experiences among trans kids and the need for long-term follow-up studies to accurately estimate regret and detransition rates ^{[2] [6]}. Additionally, the definition of regret and detransition can vary across studies, which may impact the estimates and comparisons between different populations ^{[1] [6]}. It is also essential to consider the satisfaction rates among trans kids, which can be high, as reported in some studies ^{[3] [4]}. The role of external factors, such as family rejection and societal stigma, in influencing regret and detransition rates should not be overlooked ^[5].

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement

The original statement may be misleading due to its lack of context and nuance, as it does not account for the complexity and variability of regret and detransition experiences among trans kids ^{[1] [2]}. The statement may also perpetuate biases by implying that regret is a common or inevitable outcome, which is not supported by all the analyses ^{[3] [4]}. The absence of long-term follow-up data and the influence of external pressures on regret and detransition rates may be downplayed or overlooked, which could benefit those who oppose gender-affirming care for trans kids ^{[2] [5]}. On the other hand, the statement may also underestimate the satisfaction rates among trans kids, which could benefit those who advocate for gender-affirming care ^{[3] [4]}.