Emerging Gender Identities: Understanding the Diverse Experiences of Today's Youth by Mark Yarhouse

Emerging Gender Identities: Understanding the Diverse Experiences of Today's Youth Reviews

• 
  Josh

  In my opinion, this book represents a decidedly mixed bag. Yarhouse and Sadusky have quite a bit of experience in counseling and this emerges clearly in the writing. Yet I question the overall framework of the integrationist counseling model, especially as applied to this topic. The authors repeatedly speak about the need to "validate a teen's gender experience" by listening and walking with them. Well and good, as it stands. Yet are all experiences equally "validation-worthy"? Is there ever a point at which faithful ministry requires more than validation?
  
  I have similar reservations about their three lenses for viewing gender identities: the creational lens, the disability lens, and the diversity lens. Are all equally valid, as long as they are balanced proportionally? Is Christian ministry reducible to the golden mean between worldly and "fundamentalist" options?
  
  There are things I learned from this book - their use of Ian Hacking's looping model to describe the complex interaction between society and expert medical/psychiatric labels was new to me, and exceedingly helpful. But the flaws mentioned above make it impossible for me to recommend this book as a faithful guide to navigating emerging gender identities.
• 
  Conrade Yap

  The issue of gender identities is one of the most controversial topics in our cultures today. With political lobbying, gender identity is increasingly becoming a political tool. Some even use science to prove their point of view. Others blame it on psychological profiles while still others point to genetic makeup, questioning links between chromosomes and emotional well-being. It is becoming a confusing array of opinions and arguments. What used to be clearly male and female is not so clear today. There are accusations of liberal gender-switching as well as confusion over what exactly is gender. Some take the scientific approach to try to make sense of gender confusion. This may pass the chromosomal tests raises doubts about their direct relevance to emotional attachments. The notion of gender being classified either binary or not is increasingly challenged even as society grows more tolerant with gender definitions that transcend conventional thinking. For authors Yarhouse and Sadusky, they call it nuancing gender identities. One of the key ideas is "gender dysphoria" which zooms out of gender identity discussions and zooms into the "distress experienced" by the persons. In other words, the authors propose addressing the emotional distress so that we could discuss "alternative gender" instead of "assigned gender." They cite studies about such emerging gender identities to highlight the need to go beyond mere binary assumptions. Research suggests distinguishing "biological sex, gender identity, and sexuality." Gender identity is sometimes not assigned per se but applied using political force to the point that transgenderism has become an umbrella term to cover all non-binary interpretations of gender. In order to clarify what gender identities are, one needs to be free from the political pressure to conform to certain expectations. This means we need to understand how political pressure leads to public identity; and factors such as the sexual revolution, feminist movements, deconstruction of sex, and others.
  
  How should Christians view this matter of evolving or emerging gender identities? For Yarhouse and Sadusky, they propose a three-part framework to help with our discussion. Part One begins with definitions of terms we use so liberally and casually. What is transgenderism? What is agender? What about "essentialist?" There are many different reasons why there is an uptick in number of people acknowledging their transgender identity. Reasons such as undetected in the past and misdiagnosing what is gender dysphoria; and more specialty studies pertaining to different types of transgender as language, science, or culture would fit. For some, transgender identity could very well be used to say one does not belong to the norm. We learn about the looping effect; the gender identity disorder; "new storylines," and how to distinguish between transfer and emerging gender identities. This is crucial as there are implications for care and mental health. Should one presume gender based on biological sex? What about changing sexualities? What if one feels differently later on in life? The authors caution us from adopting any extremes. One way into the care approach is to focus on "alleviating suffering" instead of conventional cold turkey treatments, etc.
  
  In Part Two, they urge us to look beyond labels toward seeing the person as they are. This is especially so for teenagers and young people who are in search of their own sense of identity. We need to be aware of the pressures from above and from below. The former hems the person in based on their assumptions of sexual labels. The latter lets the person evolves toward a label they are more comfortable in. The authors suggest progression through science, social acceptance, and sociocultural influences. In terms of theological perspectives, the authors propose the Integrity lens; the disability/differences lens; and diversity lens, and compared with the three main theological perspective views. The Ultraconservative/fundamentalist position is firmly binary and most rigid in terms of clear distinctions. The liberal position pushes back against the fundamentalist by putting their understanding of God's affirmation and one's inclination ahead of one's chromosomes. The orthodox view avoids taking either extremes and chooses to begin with complexity and hesitates on immediate labeling. They ask for more dialogues and studies first. This middle position is most appropriate for nuancing the gender dysphoria the authors talked about. the authors also give readers a fascinating overview of the different "chapters" of a young person's search for identity. This is also called the "narrative-developmental perspective" which outlines the search according to physical stages:
  
  1) Early Childhood (Ages 2-4): Awareness of their boy or girl experiences of "ignorance" and "innocence."
  2) Subsequent Conflict (School age): Conflicts about what is normal
  3) Christian Faith (Youth): Identity and faith matters as followers of Christ
  4) Revisiting Gender Identity (Adulting): Faith and gender conflicts
  5) Learning to Cope (Growing): Coping with gender identity.
  
  After the description of the various nuances we can adopt to understand the emerging gender identities, the authors lead us through some ministry structures for ministry to youths as well as how to interpret Christian hope in the light of such developments.
  
  My thoughts
  =============
  I believe the authors start off well by telling us that gender matters are increasingly complex. The old ways of seeing gender as binary is not shared by many in the younger generation. With their focus on the young, Yarhouse and Sadusky wants to create an environment for maximum participation and mutual acceptance. The person is more important than the position. By outlining the different approaches to view sexuality and gender matters, they convince readers that they understand the wide spectrum of views without dumbing down on any of them. For the most part, they are respectful. In moving from the middle line, they try to show both extremes that there is room for everyone to dialogue and remain in conversation. Nothing is clearcut from the start. Understanding needs time. Such an approach is probably most appropriate when dealing with younger members of the population. Many among the previous generation would not be able to understand the rapid cultural changes and wider acceptance of non-traditional interpretations of sexuality. While I appreciate the care and caution presented by the authors, I wonder if there are limits to being too open. Calling something complex should be applauded to avoid adopting any simplistic solutions. Unfortunately, it can also be another way of letting things be or avoiding tackling the issue altogether. Perhaps, it is more about buying time to create a larger space for honest interactions.
  
  I wonder how many people would be able to nuance like the authors. How many would know how to tolerate dissent like God would? Yarhouse and Sadusky tell us that there is hope because God will walk with us even in our wrong choices. That same argument could also be applied the other way, that God will also walk with us if we choose otherwise or refuse to choose at all! So the argument might very well become superfluous eventually. The reality of our world is that we cannot please everybody. If we try, we will end up pleasing nobody. That is why I feel that the weakest part of this book is actually the last chapter on hope. It reads like a hastily put together afterthought on love. The authors try to address the different sectors of life: pessimism among the older folks; disillusionment among the young; and the fear of making erroneous decisions in many. In particular, I feel this book is aimed at the people who are fearful of coming out. While I acknowledge the perspective of gender dysphoria and the wisdom to alleviate suffering as a priority, one question remains critical: Do we obey God or people?
  
  The part about ministry structures for youth is most redemptive. Love is essentially about connecting. If one insists on using words like "mentally ill," "abomination," or even "sin," that might put off the persons we want to reach out to. I appreciate the use of the term "beloved," which essentially looks beyond any hurtful labels toward seeing the person instead of the choices they make. If we truly want a community of tolerance and love, people from different ends of the continuum must meet somewhere in the middle. If this book could facilitate that, it would be an immense help.
  
  In summary, this book equips us with new tools for understanding a new generation.
  
  Mark Yarhouse (PsyD, Wheaton College), a licensed clinical psychologist, is the Dr. Arthur P. Rech and Mrs. Jean May Rech Chair of Psychology in the School of Psychology, Counseling, and Family Therapy at Wheaton College in Wheaton, Illinois, where he leads the Sexual & Gender Identity Institute. Yarhouse has authored or coauthored several books, including the well-received Understanding Gender Dysphoria.
  
  Julia Sadusky (PsyD, Regent University) works as a clinical psychologist in Denver, Colorado. She also serves as a youth and ministry educator, offering trainings and consultations on the intersection of sexuality, gender, and theology. Her research experiences and clinical training have focused on the study of sexual and gender identity, including providing individual, family, couples, and group therapy for those navigating sexual- and gender-identity concerns. She is an advisor for the Center for Faith, Sexuality & Gender.]
  
  Rating: 4.25 stars of 5.
  
  conrade
  This book has been provided courtesy of Brazos Press and NetGalley without requiring a positive review. All opinions offered above are mine unless otherwise stated or implied.
• 
  Colette Brennan

  As a teacher in a busy main stream secondary school (High School) I wanted a deeper understanding of the issues some pupils encounter in our society. I found this book helpful as it gave me a deeper understanding of the complex nature of the issues, not least the sense of isolation and vulnerability of pupils experiencing the issues. The book also explores Christianity and its response to the issues. it was a helpful read.
• 
  Caitlin Waits

  I really appreciate this text! I keep bookmarking sections to return to. Sadusky and Yarhouse present a common-sense approach to understanding gender identity through a religious lens that is non-judgemental and supportive.
  
  They begin the book by situating the discussion of gender in current psychological understanding and diagnosis of gender, centering on trans identity and gender dysphoria. The book defines the terms well and gives an unbiased report of the current science. From there, the authors move on to a faith-based response grounded in love and support. They do a great job of pointing out the strengths and weaknesses of various traditional responses (literal understanding of the Bible, liberal interpretation of the Bible, orthodox approach, etc) and offering advice for how people coming from each viewpoint can best share God's love with those questioning and exploring gender. The book offers scenarios to demonstrate ways to engage with trans and questioning people in ways affirming God's love for those people first and foremost, then seeks to alleviate suffering as best as possible.
  
  I like the pragmatic and caring tone of the book- it's not too preachy, it does not judge, and it offers simple facts. The book is easy to read and has really helped me understand how I can move forward in love, building strong relationships.
• 
  Kara

  This book was helpful as it is written in a more clinical perspective (as a comparison to Sprinkle’s “Embodied” book). The authors are both psychologists, so this is to be expected, but I think they did a great job of also including the relational aspect as well. It was very practical, and both authors espouse the traditional, biblical view of sexuality. I appreciate the calling on the church community to learn more, listen better, and work to find common ground and allow for space/questioning without having all the answers, or looking to have the quick answer of our opinions. This isn’t an easy topic, and there aren’t easy answers, but as a church we must be willing to engage, listen, and remain humble as we do so as we seek to balance grace (love) and Truth in these conversations.
• 
  Amy Morgan

  If you haven’t been keeping up with the way gender is experienced and categorized these days, this is a must-read. Yarhouse and Sadusky also provide a great framework for thinking through how to pastorally care for people who experience gender dysphoria and/or use modern gender identities.
• 
  Jeremy

  Balanced, offering different frameworks for people of different perspectives on emerging gender identities. Nuanced and careful, helpful for people with differing perspectives on trans identities.
• 
  Tim Franks

  There is a lot that was important to learn and study here. A lot of the new gender terms and studies were very helpful for all to know about. For Youth Pastors there was a lot to chew on and prepare for in the future of our ministries. The main issues I have here are the authors conclusions to how to handle these situations. I agree Christians need to be more graceful in their approach and building relationships with people that struggle with these things. We do have a message of hope and biblically equipped tools to help these people walk through these struggles like anything else. I just thought the allowance within your own homes and ministries will be more harmful to those attending and for the Gospel message to speak to these issues effectively. The authors are entitled to function with this the way they feel led, but I don't believe the Bible and my own conscience with allow the tolerance of some of the things talked about in this book. There is a line crossed of sin with gender identity and the Bible is clear on gender issues of that WE need to be clear on as well. It is a good book to interact with, but it is also very technical especially up front.
• 
  Brad Sargent

  How do we show Christlike hospitality to gender sojourners? On that question, we all could use constructive frameworks and practical wisdom …
  
  As a futurist, I am always scouring the horizon for resources that focus in on paradigms, paradigm shifts, and the most preferable ways forward in the midst of what is possible. As a Christian who strives to be a person of peace, I seek resources that display hospitality and dignity toward all people; advocate for social righteousness/justice and against abuse of power; and promote mutual, Christward transformation in our relationships. As a Christian futurist, my radar is tuned in to what provides people genuine hope and meaning in the midst of suffering and change. Emerging Gender Identities scores high on all those counts.
  
  This book fills a unique need created by an era of cultural polarization and cancellation--to rise above the fray in order to analyze fairly what’s happening on the ground with opposing views, then find a peaceable pathway in between these paradigms that seeks for common ground. Creating an accessible, intermediate introduction like this calls for a saturation of knowledge from multiple academic disciplines, skilled ministry practices, and sophisticated processing to ensure it is both orthodox in approach and irenic in tone.
  
  The team of Mark Yarhouse and Julia Sadusky already showed their skill set for responding to this need by their presentation and responses to other authors in the book, Understanding Transgender Identities: Four Views (Baker Academic, 2019). They role-model listening and processing that is active, empathic, and critical. In the case of emerging gender identities, this task requires familiarity with both personal and social realms: (1) the range of people whose lives have been affected; and (2) historical events, social dynamics, language changes, and cultural trends that have influenced the trajectory that got us to this point.
  
  • Relating with individuals navigating gender dysphoria and that represent a range of pathways to and through their sense of not fitting conventional versions of masculine and feminine, and whose identity is primarily at the private, public, or political level.
  • Relating with others in the circles of connection with those navigating gender dysphoria: parents, other family members, friends, ministry workers, counselors.
  • Identifying their typical questions and concerns, and responding with theological and psychological resources that will be of particular help to inform, equip, and encourage them.
  • Engaging with representatives from the range of competing views about gender dysphoria and transgenderism that we encounter in church and community.
  • Listening to adherents of these views carefully, to describe their assumptions, beliefs, and values accurately.
  • Sharing the critiques those from various views have with their polar opposite view.
  • Analyzing the set of views for where each falls short of or goes counter to biblical orthodoxy and orthopraxy, scientific and social research standards, and common courtesies for a civil society.
  
  This gives them a solid base of information to develop a credible, biblically integrated approach that emphasizes relationship, discipleship, and mentoring—and demonstrates "wisdom, prudence, and discernment"--terms they mention repeatedly. Equipping elements include stories of different kinds of people and how they deal with gender issues; lists of real-world questions that help draw out personal narratives; and powerful metaphors (like navigating and being a trail guide) that bring together abstract principles with concrete practices.
  
  Yes, it’s messy, because these are complex issues with difficult questions and personal discomforts to deal with. But Drs. Yarhouse and Sadusky ultimately developed a reasoned and workable process for customizing how we accompany any particular individual in their navigating of emerging gender identity concerns, while acknowledging our own level of discomfort, for the purposes of mutual learning and growth.
  
  I believe they’ve presented a template for embodying Christlike love in our interactions with image-bearers on what are some of the most contentious of culture-current issues. Even if we may disagree with some of the authors' analyses and conclusions, I don't know where else we'd find such a comprehensive catalog with careful treatment on views, relevant questions for reflection and action, and wide-ranging knowledge for effective ministry. Emerging Gender Identities provides a valuable resource for polarized times that can help bring clarity, elicit compassion, and defuse contempt on gender dysphoria and emerging identities.
  
  NOTE: I received a digital Advanced Readers Copy of this title in exchange for my commitment to post a review, and no compensation or print copy of the book.
  
• 
  Josh Olds

  Gender identity has become one of the most contentious social issues in contemporary culture. Unfortunately, the conversation that tends to exist about the issue is always in the realm of hyperbolic extreme. They’re conversations that generate a lot of heat, but not much light. Emerging Gender Identities is a thoughtful, nuanced, introductory guide to understanding various gender identities. The book especially speaks to parents who may be navigating the tricky waters of gender identity with their children.
  
  The two authors are Mark Yarhouse and Julia Sadusky. Yarhouse has been in the field and has more experience than any other Christian psychologist in the realm of sexual and gender identity. He serves as the head of the Sexual and Gender Identity Institute. Sadusky is a clinical psychologist and a youth and ministry educator whose professional researching focuses on sexual and gender identity. She serves as an advisor for the Center for Faith, Sexuality and Gender. In other words, Yarhouse and Sadusky have the credentials: they are traditionally conservative Christians with an extensive professional experience in sexual and gender identity issues. They are a professional, competent voice that can speak with clinical precision, scientific accuracy, and biblical foundations. Yarhouse in particular stands out as the best example of compassionate, academic conservative evangelical thinking on the issue.
  
  Emerging Gender Identities represents, in a way, a progression of thought for Yarhouse since his 2015 book Understanding Gender Dysphoria. In that book, Yarhouse seemed to imply that emerging gender identities stemmed from gender dysphoria. This book clarifies that emerging gender identities are separate from dysphoria, which is an important perspective change, moving the conversation from mental illness to sociological norms.
  
  The first part of Emerging Gender Identities defines terms, provides case studies, explores the histories, and explains the controversies. Yarhouse and Sadusky do an excellent job of being academically precise while remaining accessible to laypeople. Many of the arguments that are had on issues of gender identity would be resolved if only people understood what was being argued. In particular, they are able to explain why these issues are only now emerging rather than having been understood earlier in history. While some would cry “liberal indoctrination,” they suggest that changes in culture and language are simply giving people the words and the safety to talk about how some segments of the population have always felt.
  
  The second part of the book moves from the issue to the person. This movement is critical, because it treats transgender, nonbinary, genderfluid, agender, and any other individual in the spectrum as people first rather than focusing on how they are different from majority culture expectations. Yarhouse reiterates his “three lens” theory of perspectives on gender identity: the disability/difference lens, the diversity lens, and the integrity/sacred lens. The first lens views nontraditional gender identities as sin or as a mental illness. The second lens sees these identities as part of a natural diversity. Yarhouse advocates for the integrity/sacred lens, which acknowledges differentiation and diversity, but also emphasizes “creational intent.”
  
  From this, Emerging Gender Identities walks readers through how to best relate to individuals experiencing emerging gender identities. They go well beyond the traditional conservative response of “sex equals gender and get over it,” but not so far as the “anything goes” attitude of the liberal perspective. While not everybody will be happy with the balanced position that Emerging Gender Identities settles on, it remains an important work for evangelical Christians coming from non-affirming backgrounds, showing them how to affirm the humanity and the God-imagedness of all people regardless of gender identity. To put it most crassly, it’ll probably not move people toward being more conservative, but it should hopefully move people toward being more liberal. As Yarhouse and Sadusky’s audience is primarily Christian conservatives, that’s precisely the effect it should have. They move the issue from “culture war” to “love your neighbor.”
  
  While I wish that Emerging Gender Identities would go just a bit further in pushing evangelicals toward acceptance, I’m satisfied with where Yarhouse and Sadusky end up. They acknowledge the issue is complex and multi-faceted, that individuals might experience atypical gender identities for any number of legitimate reasons, and encourages the church to understand others with nuance and care—because there’s assuredly someone in your life who may identify in this way.
• 
  Randy Rasa

  Going in to this book, I was a bit apprehensive. The phrase "measured Christian response" in the synopsis sounded like an attempt to justify discrimination. But I was pleasantly surprised; this is a measured, and mostly reasonable and fair-minded, look at gender identity, and it offers a valuable snapshot of the understanding of, and medical and ministerial care for, people experiencing what the authors label "emerging gender identities", but what could perhaps more accurately be described as the "emerging language of gender". It's not so much that people are experiencing gender in new ways, but that we're rapidly developing new ways to describe those experiences. Although the language in this book occasionally feels a bit dated, overall the book does a good job of explaining some of the science, and relating some of the ways counselors and church leaders have tried to respond (often in ways that have caused great damage to both the individuals affected, and the church as a whole). Although I'm not sure I agree with some of the authors suggestions, I do appreciate the honesty, generosity, and humble spirit with which they make their case.
  
  They do offer one suggestion that I love, in discussing the words we use to describe those experiencing gender issues:
  
  The word we are drawn to when we think of teens navigating gender identity questions is "beloved". We like this word because it has less to do with how we think about the emerging gender identity and more to do with how we think of the teen as a whole person. It reminds us of how God sees the people we minister to (regardless of the name and pronouns they use, the apparel they choose, etc.). Not only that, but it also offers an identity for the teen to live into, one that will likely inform every aspect of their life and open them up to life-giving community, meaning, and purpose.
• 
  Brier Stucky

  An excellent introduction to the topic of gender identity and gender dysphoria. It should be noted that while the authors come at the issue from an explicitly Christian perspective, they go to great lengths to be fair to all sides of the debate and rarely tip their hats toward their own views. This is aided by the fact that, unlike many other books on the topic, the subject is not treated like an issue to be debated but in the context of relationships. To that end, the authors help the reader to consider their own relationship to the topic and stress the importance of forming relationships with those experiencing gender dysphoria rather than treating them according to one's views on the matter. Yarhouse and Sadusky strike an excellent balance between the poles of a incredibly polarized spectrum of views that stresses treating a person holistically and with great care. My only problem with the book is that the intended audience seems a bit unclear. Some chapters read as a primer on relevant issues for a general audience while others focused on issues related to youth ministry. As someone studying psychology and counseling, I was a bit let down that the book did not delve deeper into the psychological aspects of the subject, but rather focused most of its space on treating gender dysphoria and gender identity concerns as sociological phenomena.
• 
  Dom

  I didn’t know what to expect going into this book, but I definitely think it’s a must read -especially for those who do any sort of ministry work, though it should not be limited to them.
  
  The most interesting part about this book was that it was less prescriptive and more conversation focused. The authors very evidently sought to acknowledge the multiple challenges that ministries and Christians face when it comes to addressing this issue but did not present solutions so much as offered an important look at this subject that can often be overlooked. Each point was often framed as a discussion which acknowledged various parts of this subject and asked the reader to consider what influence such things should have on their practice on both individual and corporate levels.
  
  This was not a theology book, so readers should not go into it expecting answers regarding what’s okay or not. However, this book was an in-depth discussion on an incredibly timely subject and maintained a high-view of Scripture throughout. I seriously cannot recommend this book enough.
• 
  Jason

  Whilst admittedly this is my first foray into the subject, nonetheless I found the measured tone and compassion at the heart of this book make for powerful reading.
  
  The book is initially dry reading, tracing the history, development, and response to transgenderism, but then moving into a consideration of how theology might intersect with this issue. After this the bulk of the book focuses on our response in both in the public and the private sphere. There are thoughts and questions for parents, pastors, youth workers and anyone who finds themselves working with teens struggling with their gender identity.
  
  The book resists the temptation to tell its readers what to do or not to do, but offers a framework for asking the right questions before taking action.
  
  If there was one central takeaway though it is this: teens struggling with their gender identity need to be treated with the same compassion and care with which we should treat any young person, and that relationship must come first before anything else.
  
  
• 
  Ian Ritchie

  Such a hopeful and encouraging book. Also very challenging. The authors offer practical, pastoral wisdom for listening to those with gender identity questions and and accompanying them on the journey, even if it's messy, even if we don't have all the answers, even if it takes a lifetime of questions and wrestling. This book is full of radical grace without sacrificing conviction. At first I was disappointed that there wasn't really a positive theology of gender presented, but that's not what the book is about. The book is about caring for people, and it seemed like the authors were intentional about making such care relevant for people of many different perspectives, including what the authors describe as "fundamentalist/hyperconservative, orthodox, and liberal." This seems like a good book for parents, pastors, counselors, youth leaders, or anyone who loves (or will love) someone for whom gender identity is experienced as complicated or an area of question or concern.
• 
  Isaac Goodspeed Overton

  This is a wonderfully thoughtful and academic response to emerging gender identities, while also remaining compassionate and loving. This book is a much needed voice in the conversation for pastors and leaders within the American Church. As culture wars rage and fear drives response on both the left and the right, this book offers a way of thinking about complex issues affecting real people (particularly young people) that more fully aligns with scriptures command to love and not fear. This book practical and insightful drawing from their experiences working with gender minorities and those experiencing varying degrees of dysphoria, as well as from extensive research and biblical study.
  
  While this isn’t the book written to those experiencing gender dysphoria or those wrestling with their gender identity, I would highly recommend anyone in Church ministry to read this. Particularly those who are leading youth, and parents of youth.
• 
  Andy

  I found Mark Yarhouse's previous book on gender dysphoria incredibly helpful. This present book authored along with Julia Sadusky was equally very insightful and helpful. I don't claim to have any expertise but it struck me that the approach they offer is one deeply rooted in the love of Christ whilst drawing upon psychological understanding, good therapeutic practice experience and societal dynamics.
  At no stage did it feel like they were writing about nameless persons or disconnected theory. Rather there was real compassion expressed for individuals.
  Not do they ignore the questions, reservations, different approaches that others might have in learning that someone they know is exploring about their gender identity. This includes the authors looking at how different Christian theological outlooks might shape the way we interact and journey with others.
  Glad I read this.
• 
  Mattie Vandiver

  An important read for Christian leaders walking alongside young people in any capacity. If nothing else, chapter 8 is such a great resource. This book says so much of what I have believed and thought for so long but could never articulate. In a conversation that must be had so delicately, I appreciate how much nuance the book is able to have.
  
  Cons: The first few chapters are very dense, especially for those not familiar with terms associated with the LGTBQ+ community. You definitely should take these slow if that is you. I also think that the language used around the 3 lenses and terming one a “disability lens” is already a bit outdated with new ways the disability community has begun to reframe disability.
• 
  Adam Bloch

  Good book for Christians to think through the gender issues of the 20-teens and 2020s. It might push the envelope farther than conservative Christians will be ok with (but still not as far as progressive Christians will want), but this book’s strength is that it provides a paradigm for thinking through how to talk to people who might believe or wonder whether they identify with atypical genders.
  
  This book is kind of a sequel to Yarhouse’s earlier book on gender dysphoria; you don’t need to have read it first, but it will help.
• 
  Радостин Марчев

  Ярхаус пише като специалист, което е рядко срещано по темата. Както и другите ми книги тази е написана премерено, разумно и най-вече със загриженост за реалните хора, за които говори. Последното е най-голямото й достойнство и си заслужава да бъде чуто от всеки.
  Лично аз бях предпочел той да заеме по-ясна лична позиция. Макар да намеква ясно накъде клони Ярхаус се опитва да пише по начин, който да угоди на всички. Аз разбирам целта, но ми се струва, че по този начин доста остава недоизказано.
• 
  Tamara Milanovic

  Dr. Mark Yarhouse's voice on gender-related topics is one that speaks the truth with kindness, grace and eagerness to understand and help. This book is just another proof of that.
  If you are interested in the topic of gender dsyphoria, and understanding the 'hype' behind the gender conversations and how to help those that are going through it - this book is an excellent, practical guide with a lot of wise insight.
  Highly recommended.
• 
  Kristel Acevedo

  This is a wonderful book that guides Christ followers (particularly student/youth ministry workers and parents) on how to engage with youth who are struggling with gender identity. The book is well-researched and filled with compassion. I appreciate how the authors navigate such a difficult topic and remind us that ALL people are made in God’s image and worthy of dignity, respect, fellowship, and love.
• 
  Marlise

  I learned some things here and I appreciate it. It’s very clearly explained - a bit clinical but I appreciate the unbiased approach. A book about 🏳️‍🌈 without extreme judgement, polarization, or angst is a refreshing change to the many angry books out there (both from the 🏳️‍🌈 community and against it). I’m always willing to learn, especially when our culture and language are changing so rapidly.
• 
  Rachreads

  If you know a teenager, you need to read this book. This book is a must-read for parents and anyone who works with teenagers. The authors give deep research and insight into the experiences of today's generation so that we can know and care for them.
• 
  Dave

  Clear, well-presented frameworks for engaging with discussions around gender identity. Even if I did not agree with every premise, the decidedly *human* tone of this entire was book was refreshing to read in grappling with complex issues.
• 
  Adam Ziarnik

  DNF notes: Setting this aside for now - not because of any problems with the text, but because the subject matter is not terribly relevant to me at this moment in time and there’s other stuff I’d rather be reading.
• 
  Henry Hoekstra

  Simply put, every pastor and seminarian must make themselves aware of emerging gender identities and the proper way to shed the light of the gospel on it.
  This book is a great starting place.
• 
  Kendra

  Good read but difficult for someone not in the mental health field to understand all the jargon.