Caring for gender diverse children and adolescents in Italy: A mixed-method investigation of clinicians’ knowledge and approach to clinical practice

In today's Italy, gender diversity has assumed a remarkable resonance and visibility in both scientific and popular literature, which has facilitated the development of studies regarding treatments and support for children and adolescents with gender-related issues. The aim of this study was to conduct a preliminary evaluation of how Italian clinicians (psychologists and pediatricians) perceive gender variant children and adolescents, evaluating their approach to clinical practice. An online questionnaire directed to clinicians their experience with, was used for the research. This study highlights the increase of gender variant children and adolescents seen by professionals, but also the poor awareness of Italian professional about gender diversity and their care, as well as an absence of a network model of intervention.