A Parent Who Is Very Concerned About a 3-Year-Old Son

Multiple Choice

A parent who is very concerned about a 3-year-old son says, "He likes to play with girls' toys. Do you think he is homosexual or mentally ill?" Which response by the nurse most professionally describes the current understanding of gender identity?

A) "A child's interest in the activities of the opposite gender is not unusual or related to sexuality. Most children do not carry cross-gender interests into adulthood."
B) "It's difficult to say for sure because the research is incomplete so far, but chances are that he will grow up to be a normal adult."
C) "The research is incomplete, but many boys play with girls' toys and turn out normal as adults."
D) "I am sure that whatever happens, he will be a loving son, and you will be a proud parent."