Variations in Sex Development: Medicine, Culture and Psychological Practice

Intersex variations are misunderstood by the wider public, and this book discusses psychological practice in healthcare for people and families impacted by them. It highlights the dilemmas facing individuals and their loved ones and exposes the contradictions in medical management. It provides valuable theoretical and practice tools for psychosocial care providers to navigate these challenges.

Format: Hardback
Length: 200 pages
Publication date: 08 December 2022
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Biological variations in sex development, also known as intersex, are widely misunderstood by the general public. This unique book delves into the psychological practice in healthcare for individuals and families affected by a diverse range of intersex variations. It sheds light on the challenges faced by individuals and their loved ones in the social context, exploring the physical and psychological complexities of irreversible medical interventions aimed at aligning with societal norms for bodily appearance and function. It exposes the inconsistencies in medical management and offers valuable theoretical and practical tools for psychosocial care providers to navigate these complexities effectively.

The book uniquely incorporates theory and research-informed practice vignettes, delving into interpersonal work on the most pressing psychosocial themes. These include grief work with impacted caretakers, as well as sex therapy with impacted adults. It serves as an indispensable resource for healthcare specialists, as well as those affected by variations in sex development and their families and communities, empowering them to work ethically, pragmatically, and creatively in their endeavors.

Weight: 640g
Dimension: 235 x 158 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781316518373