Homosexuality was removed from the DSM-III list, inserted in DSM-III-R list (as two sub-disorders, namely ego-dystonic and ego-syntonic homosexuality). It was also inserted in the DSM-IV-TR list as a single disorder. Most of the people felt that homosexuality was basically removed due to the politics prevalent at that time (in the 1970’s). At that time it was difficult to demonstrate certain constant psychiatric stereotypes that existed in homosexuals.
However, recently after conducting advanced studies, certain constant psychiatric stereotypes have been identified in homosexuals, which have enabled them to reinsert it into the DSM-IV-TR list. 2. How do you think this may impact gender identity disorders (GID)? 3. How different are homosexuality and GID? Discuss. In a GID, the individual’s image of one-self’s sex is distorted. In homosexuality, the tendency to be attracted towards the opposite sex is distorted. The individual is attracted towards individuals belonging to the same sex.
In GID, the cross-gender identification is distorted. An individual can be a homosexual and also have a GID. GID is different from homosexuality. GID may frequently falsely manifest as homosexuality especially during the childhood and the adolescent stage. Homosexuality is the orientation towards the other sex, whereas GID is the self-image of oneself. A psychologist would have to conduct specific mental tests and examinations in order to distinguish between both, as both are separate conditions.
Besides, the treatment for GID and homosexuality is different. Counseling, surgery and hormone therapy could be utilized to treat GID. 4. Discuss how these differences have impacted the inclusion of GID, and not homosexuality, in the DSM-IV-TR Homosexuality can be considered within the normal range of sexual behavior. The individual’s ability to function at school, home, workplace or in social settings is usually not affected.
On the other hand, GID is characterized by intention of being the opposite sex or feeling that one is not the sex that they are born. The individual experiences persistent physical and mental symptoms in GID. Besides, the ability to function normally at school, home, workplace or in social settings is seriously affected. Hence GID is classified as a disorder in DSM-IV-TR and not homosexuality.
References: Moser, C. (2003). “DSM-IV-TR and the Paraphilias: An Argument for Removal.