A recent poll conducted by NORC at the University of Chicago for The Times shows a significant divide among Americans on issues relating to transgender and nonbinary children, with differing views on gender-affirming care, parental reactions, sports participation, identity privacy, and broader LGBTQ+ acceptance.
A recent nationwide poll conducted by NORC at the University of Chicago for The Times reveals a significant divide among Americans on issues relating to transgender and nonbinary children.
The poll shows that 54% of U.S. adults support laws to prevent transgender children under 18 from receiving gender-affirming care, such as surgery or puberty blockers, while 44% oppose such laws. Additionally, Americans are nearly evenly split on how they would feel if their child identified as transgender; 48% would be upset, whereas 51% would not. There’s a notable disparity in reactions based on age and political affiliation, with older individuals and Republicans more likely to be upset compared to their younger and Democratic counterparts.
Furthermore, 66% of respondents are against transgender individuals, especially women, participating in sports teams that align with their gender identity. In educational settings, 54% believe schools should respect a teenager’s wish to keep their transgender or nonbinary identity private from their parents, whereas 44% believe parents should always be informed.
The poll also sheds light on the broader acceptance of LGBTQ+ people. Although support has increased since 1985, it has not grown as significantly for transgender and nonbinary individuals.
Overall, the poll highlights the complexities and varied perspectives around gender identity issues in the United States, reflecting a nation grappling with how to support and understand its transgender and nonbinary youth.
