Published in Children’s Voice, Volume 34, Number 1.
by Gerald P. Mallon
Transgender youth face immense challenges in today’s political climate, where anti-trans legislation and rhetoric are on the rise. From restrictions on gender-affirming health care to bans on participation in sports and limitations on discussions of gender identity in schools, trans youth are increasingly targeted by policies that undermine their rights and well-being. These challenges are not only legal but also social, psychological, and medical, creating an environment of fear, marginalization, and systemic discrimination
Legal and Political Attacks on Trans Youth
One of the most pressing issues facing transgender youth is the current wave of anti-trans legislation across the United States and other parts of the world (Trans Legislation Tracker, 2025; Harmon, 2025). Many states have passed or introduced laws banning gender-affirming care for minors, despite medical consensus that such care is essential for the mental health and well-being of trans individuals. These laws criminalize doctors who provide puberty blockers, hormone therapy, or even mental health support for transgender youth, leaving many without access to lifesaving care (Williams Institute, 2023; Park et al., 2021).
Additionally, transgender youth are being targeted in schools through restrictions on pronoun use, bathroom access, and participation in sports. Laws that require teachers to misgender students or prevent them from using facilities that align with their gender identity create hostile educational environments (Harmon, 2025). Similarly, bans on discussing gender identity in classrooms erase the experiences of transgender youth and limit access to affirming resources, further isolating them.
Social and Mental Health Consequences
Political hostility toward transgender youth makes a significant psychological impact. Studies have shown that transgender youth who experience rejection or discrimination are at a much higher risk of depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation. The Trevor Project’s national survey on LGBTQ+ youth mental health (Trevor Project, 2024) has repeatedly found that trans and nonbinary youth face disproportionately high levels of distress, particularly in states with restrictive laws.
Beyond legislation, societal stigma contributes to the challenges faced by trans youth (Olson et al., 2016). Misinformation and fearmongering from politicians, media figures, and advocacy groups frame transgender identities as threats rather than legitimate expressions of self. This fuels bullying, family rejection, and social ostracization, making it even more difficult for trans youth to find safe and supportive spaces.
Barriers to Medical and Social Support
Gender-affirming care, recognized as essential by major medical organizations like the American Medical Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics (American Medical Association, 2021; Wyckoff, 2023), is being stripped away due to political interference. In states where care is banned, families are often forced to travel long distances or even move to access health care for their children. For many, these options are financially or logistically impossible, leaving trans youth to suffer the consequences of untreated gender dysphoria (Chelliah et al., 2024; Strand & Jones, 2021; Turban & Ehrensaft, 2023; Vrouenraets et al., 2015).
Transgender youth also struggle to access affirming therapy, school counselors, and peer support networks. In many conservative regions of the United States, mental health professionals face legal and social pressure not to affirm transgender identities, leading some to avoid providing necessary care. When trans youth are denied both medical and psychological support, they are left vulnerable to extreme mental health struggles, including self-harm and suicide.
The Importance of Resistance and Advocacy
Despite these immense challenges, trans youth and their allies continue to fight for their rights. Advocacy groups, legal organizations, and grassroots activists are working to challenge discriminatory laws and provide resources for by affected families. Efforts to educate the public and counter misinformation, especially in the field of child welfare, are crucial in shifting societal attitudes and ensuring that transgender youth receive the respect and support they deserve (Shelton & Mallon, 2021; Mallon, 2021).
Additionally, some states and countries are pushing back against anti-trans sentiment and legislation by enacting legal protections and expanding access to gender- affirming care. These efforts highlight the importance of continued advocacy and political engagement to secure a future where transgender youth can live safely and authentically.
Conclusion
Transgender youth in today’s politically hostile environment face extraordinary challenges, from legal discrimination to social stigma and barriers to medical care. The rise of anti-trans legislation has placed their rights, health, and safety at risk, exacerbating mental health struggles and social isolation. However, resistance efforts and advocacy work continue to provide hope and support for trans youth and their families (Mallon, 2021). Moving forward, it is crucial for allies, policy-makers, and communities to stand in solidarity with transgender youth and fight against the systemic forces seeking to erase their existence.
Gerald P. Mallon, DSW, is the Julia Lathrop Professor of Child Welfare at the Silberman School of Social Work at Hunter College in New York City and an editor emeritus of CWLA’s Child Welfare journal. No federal, state, or local funds were utilized to write this article, and the views expressed herein are Dr. Mallon’s own, based on 49 years of child welfare experience in working with LGBTQ+ youth.
References
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