Children can already recognize the physical differences between girls and boys as early as two. They may also form glimpses of gender identity and expression by associating behaviors and preferences with these physical features. For instance, they believe being brave and stoic is more appropriate for boys while being soft and feminine is associated with girls. And while there’s nothing wrong with these associations, they may have trouble coping when they’re exposed to a more diverse expression.



They may feel distressed whenever they prefer and behave differently than what they’ve observed from others. Children may question their identities, developing gender dysphoria or depersonalization...