~ Special Report ~
Sexuality and Gender
Findings from the Biological,
Psychological, and Social Sciences
Lawrence S. Mayer, M.B., M.S., Ph.D.
Paul R. McHugh, M.D.
Number 50 ~ Fall 2016 ~ $7.00……….
Number 50 ~ Fall 2016
Editor’s Note: Questions related to sexuality and gender bear on some of the most intimate and personal aspects of human life. In recent years they have also vexed American politics. We offer this report—written by Dr. Lawrence S. Mayer, an epidemiologist trained in psychiatry, and Dr. Paul R. McHugh, arguably the most important American psychiatrist of the last half-century—in the hope of improving public understanding of these questions. Examining research from the biological, psychological, and social sciences, this report shows that some of the most frequently heard claims about sexuality and gender are not supported by scientific evidence. The report has a special focus on the higher rates of mental health problems among LGBT populations, and it questions the scientific basis of trends in the treatment of children who do not identify with their biological sex. More effort is called for to provide these people with the understanding, care, and support they need to lead healthy, flourishing lives.
Preface 4
Lawrence S. Mayer
Executive Summary 7
Sexuality and Gender
Findings from the Biological, Psychological, and Social Sciences
Lawrence S. Mayer, M.B., M.S., Ph.D. and Paul R. McHugh, M.D.
Introduction 10
Part 1: Sexual Orientation 13
Abstract 13
Problems with Defining Key Concepts 15
The Context of Sexual Desire 19
Sexual Orientation 21
Challenging the “Born that Way” Hypothesis 25
Studies of Twins 26