What's behind HHS claims that gender-affirming care 'may' radicalize
Experts are questioning the methodology and political motivations behind a recent HHS report suggesting gender-affirming care may radicalize individuals. Critics argue the report lacks peer review and promotes a biased narrative against transgender people.
Why it matters
The report reflects a broader political conflict over the legitimacy of gender-affirming care and the role of federal health agencies in shaping cultural narratives.
AFP and Bloomberg via Getty Images/Collage by Javier Palma for NPR Since announcing Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as his pick for Health and Human Services secretary last year, President Trump and Kennedy have touted their dedication to " Gold Standard Scientific Research" and making federal health agencies "beacons of Transparency."
But a recent report released by the agency has left some experts with substantial doubts about its researchers' methods, its claims about its findings and its authors' political intentions. The report , titled "Where the Clinic Meets the Movement: Does Gender Ideology Arm Left-Wing Authoritarian Psychology?" was not peer reviewed and its underlying data and funding have also not been made available. All are common best practices for research. (One author says its data will be released "soon.")
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