Many adults with gender identity issues describe difficulties in childhood. Often they complain of having been very unhappy teenagers, and that their suffering had not been recognised early enough by parents and professionals. If this suffering can be recognised early in life, then with the right help, support and treatment young people can be helped to tolerate living in these distressing conditions until, having found a solution to the identity conflict, they approach a happier and less traumatic adulthood. A child becomes aware of its gender identity before or around the age of five years. Gender Role Gender role can be defined as the way someone behaves in terms of maleness or femaleness and the role they take in society.
Gender role is variable, valuable and dependant on the cultural values of a society.
Mermaids recognises that awareness of gender identity issues at an early age should be promoted, and help provided to families or individuals in order to alleviate any problems that might arise. It is often helpful to talk to others who have gone through, or are going through, similar problems to, one s own. Contact with others, whether it is by telephone, letter, or in person, can alleviate the feelings of loneliness and alienation that can arise. Discovering that one is not alone can bring strength and understanding. They hold meetings in the Reading, Newbury, and Basingstoke area.