A recent study published in PLOS ONE by Marlene Stratmann and colleagues from Karlstad University, Sweden, examined the association between gender nonconformity (GNC) in 7-year-old children and various behavioral outcomes. Gender nonconformity refers to variations in gender expression from societal norms, and can manifest in several ways such as play behavior, peer relationships, clothing, and body language. While childhood GNC does not directly indicate developing gender dysphoria later in life, there is a high co-occurrence of GNC, gender dysphoria, and autism spectrum disorder.
The researchers analyzed data from 718 children enrolled in the Swedish Environmental Longitudinal, Mother and Child, Asthma and Allergy (SELMA) study, focusing on play behavior and behavioral outcomes. GNC play behavior was determined using the Preschool Activities Inventory, which assesses play with “feminine” and “masculine” toys, activities, and child characteristics. The results showed that higher levels of gender nonconforming play were associated with increased behavioral difficulties in both boys and girls.
Specifically, higher masculine play behavior scores were linked to hyperactivity and inattention in both sexes. For boys, higher feminine play scores were associated with peer relationship problems, while for girls, higher masculine play scores were linked to an increased likelihood of autistic traits and behavioral difficulties. The study highlights the potential associations between GNC and behavioral challenges in children without any formal diagnoses.
However, it is important to note that this study involved a sample of children of only one age in a single country, so caution must be taken when interpreting the results. The authors emphasize that the findings do not imply causation and that playing with toys traditionally associated with the opposite gender does not inherently lead to behavioral difficulties or autistic traits in children. It is essential to consider individual differences and the complexity of human behavior when interpreting these results.
Overall, the study sheds light on the complex relationship between gender nonconformity, autistic traits, and behavioral challenges in children. The findings suggest that GNC may be associated with difficulties in both boys and girls, highlighting the importance of further research in this area. Understanding the interplay between gender expression, social norms, and behavioral outcomes in childhood can help inform interventions and support for children who may experience challenges related to gender nonconformity.
