[ preliminary analysis of the 12 transsexual patients with regards to their adaptation in means of role and gender identity after a sexual reassignment surgery]

ABSTRACT

Gender identity disorder consists of the patient's consistent desire to identify with the opposite sex and feels significant discomfort or the inability to deal with this condition. In patients resistant to treatment [Individual Psychotherapy, Psychoanalysis] operational procedure has been utilized and has been authorized in Iran through a religious decree issued by the country's late leader, Ayatollah Khomeini since 1964. A study into the instances of surgery procedures in the country has proven positive results. The procedure consists of cross-sectional study in small scale on 12 transsexual individuals consisting of 9 men and 3 women. All of the participants had sexual reassignment surgery at an average of six years prior to the study. They all were from middle class families and held an average age of 25. The participants were subjected to MMPI-1 questionnaire, [MF] MMPI-2, The Bem Sex-Role inventory and the Bem Gender Traits Test. The study showed that the patients have responded positively to the treatment in psycho-social dimension and had obtained a normal grade at the MMPI-1 test. According to the results of the Bem and MF tests they have also accepted their new identity and role. Results of Semi structural interview included all of sample agreed with their decision. Neither of the patients has expressed regret of undertaking the surgery. Multiple factors include economic status of the patients, satisfying interpersonal relationships, efficient support system, sexual partners and satisfactory sexual life, suitable familial reactions and possibility of extra surgery have prominent role to adjust them with their new identity and role in the society