Dr. Phil McGraw expressed concerns this week about medical and education professionals encouraging children to transition genders, arguing that more research is needed on potential long-term effects.
In an interview on The Joe Rogan Experience podcast, McGraw said he found it interesting that officials use terms like “gender affirming care” to describe hormonal therapy or surgery for children. He noted that major medical associations like the AMA and AAP have endorsed these treatments for youth, but in his view they have done so with limited data on potential harms. McGraw said he asked about long-term risks and was concerned these medical groups were labeling people “transphobic” for raising questions.
McGraw pointed out some European countries have become more cautious about medical transition for minors, citing concerns about potential harm. Proponents argue these treatments can reduce suicide risk, but McGraw said that has not been proven and other mental health issues remain. He plans to cover this topic further in upcoming shows.
On schools’ involvement, McGraw argued teachers lack expertise in psychology and medicine to address gender dysphoria or provide medical advice. He objected to policies where teachers facilitate social transitions without informing parents, arguing this undermines family relationships. Advocates say this protects children from potential abuse if parents react badly, but McGraw said while rare, abuse can be addressed through child protective services.
McGraw and Rogan also discussed how children are impressionable and social media may be influencing self-perception about gender. McGraw cited research showing a sharp recent increase in girls identifying as transgender, suggesting social contagion may play a role. He disputes claims that detransition is very rare, arguing the true numbers may be underreported.
In sum, McGraw believes more research is needed on transgender medical interventions for children, and he raised concerns about the roles of both medical professionals and schools in these issues. He argues more caution is warranted to protect children’s long-term well-being.
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