Washington, D.C.—Whether an individual with gender dysphoria is able to meet the “high standards for service member readiness, lethality, cohesion, honesty, humility, uniformity, and integrity,” quoted in Executive Order 14183 and a subsequent memorandum issued by office of the Undersecretary of Defense on Feb. 26, is a medical, not a political decision and, like other fitness determinations, should be made on a case-by-case basis. The data do not support the general conclusion that a diagnosis of gender dysphoria precludes an individual from meeting these standards or the rigorous mental and physical demands of military service.

American Psychiatric Association

The American Psychiatric Association, founded in 1844, is the oldest medical association in the country. The APA is also the largest psychiatric association in the world with more than 39,200 physician members specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, prevention, and research of mental illnesses. APA’s vision is to ensure access to quality psychiatric diagnosis and treatment. For more information, please visit www.psychiatry.org.