Measurement/Assessment Issues in Research

Measurement and assessment of gender includes efforts to quantify or label not only the experience of gender identity but also multiple dimensions of gender such as gender expression, body satisfaction, gender dysphoria, and gender-related minority stress. Measurement of dimensions of gender (e.g., identity, dysphoria, or minority stress) may occur at one point in time or may be used to characterize trajectories of gender development over time. Precise, acceptable, and sensitive gender measurement is critical for research and clinical care with trans people and people across the gender spectrum. Multidimensional and developmentally appropriate measurement promises to support faster, more tailored, and more precise affirming care, as well as to support improved understanding of anticipated development (e.g., gender trajectories, body image) and associated support needs for trans ...