Background

Diversity in gender identity, gender expression, and sexual orientation reflects the natural diversity of sexual and gender development that emerges over the course of childhood and adolescence. Health promotion for all youth includes the open exploration of identity topics, including sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression, according to recognized practice guidelines. In contrast, efforts to change or suppress a youth's sexual orientation and/or gender identity, including conversion therapy and reparative therapy, lack scientific support and are associated with adverse mental health outcomes, including depression and suicidality.

To ensure healthy development of all children, adolescents, and their families, the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry recommends that providers:

• Support healthy development, especially for sexual and gender diverse youth, as they integrate their sexual orientation, gender identity, and/or gender expression, into their overall identity without biasing a predetermined outcome
• Engage in curious, nonjudgmental discussion of all identity dimensions, including sexual orientation, gender identity, and/or gender expression, as relevant to the patient
• Strongly oppose any efforts to change a youth’s sexual orientation, gender identity, and/or gender expression

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The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry promotes the healthy development of children, adolescents, and families through advocacy, education, and research. Child and adolescent psychiatrists are the leading physician authority on children’s mental health.

Approved by Council October 2026