New Poll: Most Americans Don't Think Kids Should Get Puberty Blockers or Hormone Treatments

By Joanna Button

New poll: A new Washington Post-KFF poll shows that a majority of Americans oppose giving minors access to puberty blockers or hormone treatments. The findings could strengthen the case for politicians seeking to pass conservative legislation regarding transgender issues.

Findings: According to the poll, only 57 percent of Americans believe gender is determined at birth. Six in 10 think biological males shouldn’t participate in women’s sports at any age. Nearly 70 percent and 60 percent, respectively, say minors shouldn’t have access to puberty blockers or hormone therapy. However, a majority of respondents believe they should have access to “gender-affirming counseling.” Most respondents said gender identity discussions are inappropriate before 5th grade but appropriate in high school.

Trans legislation: Legislation on these issues has been passed or is being discussed in many states. Twenty-one states restrict biological males from competing in girls’ school sports, and 12 have placed restrictions on gender identity discussions in the classroom. Sixteen states have also restricted “gender-affirming” care like puberty blockers and hormones for minors. In response, some blue states have vowed to pass protections for minors and parents seeking sex-change treatments.

Public perception: Many respondents expressed nuanced or even seemingly conflicting views, saying they support certain trans issues but not others. It seems most Americans are uncomfortable with children receiving medical treatments to transition, despite the efforts by the executive branch and several blue states to encourage these practices.