Application: Sexual Reassignment

A person does not wake up randomly one morning and suddenly decide that he or she wants to be a different sex.

Rather, the decision to undergo sex reassignment surgery typically follows a lengthy-often lifelong-journey of reflection and careful decision making.

(Note: This Assignment focuses on individuals who are transsexual, not intersex.)

There are three general phases once the decision has been made to undergo sex reassignment surgery. First, there is a lead-up process during which the client prepares for the surgery and often is required to seek counseling to ensure that this decision has been made very carefully.

Second, the actual surgery is performed. Third, the client faces a post-reassignment surgery adjustment period in which the client reorients to his or her new life.

The Assignment (2- to 3-page paper):

For each of the three phases of sex reassignment surgery:

Explain two challenges a client might face.

Explain two strategies a helping professional might use to address each challenge.

Support your Assignment with specific references to all resources used in its preparation. You are to provide a reference list for all resources, including those in the resources for this course.