This interview explores the deep connection between childhood trauma and the rise in transgender identification among young people. Dr. Jennifer Bauwens, a clinical social worker specializing in trauma, joins the conversation to explain how unresolved wounds, disrupted attachments, and cultural messaging influence identity formation. Drawing on clinical experience, research, and real-life stories—including the journey of Walt Heyer—she sheds light on why compassion, truth, and proper psychological care are essential for true healing.

Dr. Jennifer Bauwens is the Director of the Center for Family Studies at Family Research
Council. She researches and advocates for policies that will best serve the health and well-being
of families and communities.
Jennifer earned her Ph.D. from New York University with an emphasis in trauma studies. She
has worked extensively as a clinician providing trauma-focused treatment to children in foster-
care and behavioral health settings and to adults who've experienced interpersonal traumas, such
as sexual abuse and assault.
Her scholarship and publications have focused on the effects of psychological trauma, including
man-made and natural disasters. Additionally, Jennifer has taught on psychological trauma and
research methods in several graduate programs, including Rutgers University and Princeton
Seminary.

https://embracethedesign.com/
Jennifer Bauwens' Book: https://a.co/d/9yLRZy0

Walt Heyer Interviews:
https://youtu.be/07_JatfRsss
https://youtu.be/0qZpwPtVNcA
https://youtu.be/6K7QgYOKThw

00:00 Understanding Gender Confusion and Its Roots
03:26 Walt Heyer's Journey: From Trauma to Transformation
07:04 The Clinical Perspective on Gender Affirming Care
23:40 Comparing Experiences: Abuse Survivors and Transgender Individuals
30:54 The Impact of Family Dynamics on Identity
37:01 The Influence of Social Factors on Gender Identity
42:46 Navigating the Complexities of Gender Dysphoria
43:33 Understanding the Trans Movement and Social Contagion
47:18 The Importance of Attachment in Development
52:51 Exploring Attachment Theory and Its Implications
01:03:27 Connecting Attachment Issues to Gender Identity
01:10:51 The Role of Family and History in Identity Formation
01:22:42 Practical Guidance for Supporting Individuals in Transition
01:29:12 Real Estate Commercial

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Press:
NC Register: https://www.ncregister.com/author/jennifer-roback-morse
Catholic Answers: https://www.catholic.com/profile/jennifer-roback-morse
The Stream: https://stream.org/author/jennifer-roback-morse/
Crisis Magazine: https://crisismagazine.com/author/jennifer-roeback-morse

Father Sullins' Reports on Clergy Sexual Abuse: https://ruthinstitute.org/resource-centers/father-sullins-research/

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