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In this edition, Focus Point features three articles reflecting some of the diversity of opinion that exists around the issue of gender identity, a diversity which is also reflected elsewhere in this edition and in other articles in recent editions. As a sociologist, Finn Mackay's article provides a perspective from outside the field of psychoanalytic and Jungian thinking and practice. Mackay draws our focus to the gendered culture in which we live, questions whose lives and what is under scrutiny and argues for a reconsidered discussion on gender, informed by more awareness of that context. Wayne Full, Director of Academic and Strategic Development at the British Psychotherapy Foundation, presents research findings related to being transgender and issues of gender identities. His interviews with psychoanalytic, psychodynamic and Jungian practitioners provide detailed information and insight into some of the range of views, concerns and reflections of clinicians working currently. Psychoanalytic psychotherapist Susan Evans draws on her clinical experience working with adults, children and families with gender identity issues in an account of the complexities of such work. Highlighting recent legal and policy developments, Evans questions the appropriateness of medicalised approaches and advocates for a cautious, holistic framework, including a thorough psychological assessment, in addressing gender dysphoria.
Anne Kane
Association for Group and Individual Psychotherapy, London, UK
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