Introduction
The article explores the life of a young boy-Brandon Simms-who believes he is a transgender (Rosin, par. 5). The author explains the confusion that the boy faces in different social settings and as a participant observer; she relates the Boy’s parent’s assimilation process in regards to their son transgender identity (Rosin, par.7). Rosin’s thesis is that transgender children in the society are becoming more acceptable to their parents though still rejected by conservative families and social institutions.
Discussion
I think Rosin wrote this article following the gay and antigay movements that characterized a transforming American society hence the correct timing expected for the topic. The intended audience is general and even though controversial; it captures the intention of many want to acknowledge the reality that many transgender children experience in reaction to gendered patterns of communication (Rosin, per. 10).
Rosin’s article is convincing because therapist can assist transgender children using hormone blockers to control the process of puberty that occur during adolescence such as breast size in girls and facial hairs in boys. For conservative families, other therapists suggest that transgender behavior is a social disorder that professional therapy can control. Her examples are also convincing because the scientific terms and social issues illustrated are simple and do not attract confusion. She quotes the works of many professional in the field of transgender therapy and surgical procedures such as Dr. Money and Dr. Richard Green and presents the article from a neutral point of view (Rosin, par. 17-25).
Conclusion
The transgender issue is rapidly being acknowledged in the United States hence the need for teachers, parents and psychologists to deviate from the old fashioned taboos of transgender identity and familiarize themselves with the available resources suitable for their families and children (Rosin, par.26). It is evident “the Atlantic” magazine is on the forefront to disclose negative stereotypes that intimidate transgender children in the society while advocating for new research and therapeutic alternatives as strategies to minimize suicidal rates among the special kind amongst us.
Work cited
Rosin, Hanna. The Atlantic: A Boy’s Life. November 1, 2008. Retrieved from http://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2008/11/a-boys-life/307059/ on 20/05/2013.
