Shifting Trends in Gender Identity Among Young Americans
A significant shift in gender identity trends among Generation Z in the United States has emerged, according to a recent report by Eric Kaufmann, a professor of politics at the University of Buckingham in the United Kingdom. Titled 'The Decline of Trans and Queer Identity among Young Americans,' the report from the Centre for Heterodox Social Science reveals a notable drop in transgender identification among college-age students. Drawing on data from over 60,000 U.S. undergraduates surveyed by the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE), the study found that the percentage of students identifying as a gender other than male or female peaked at 6.8 percent in 2023 but has since fallen to 3.6 percent in 2025.
This decline marks a reversal of a trend that saw steady increases in transgender identification over the past decade. Kaufmann's analysis, which incorporates seven distinct data pools, indicates that in three of five key data sources, the number of students identifying as 'nonbinary'—neither male nor female—also dropped by nearly half since the 2023 peak. The report suggests that this shift may reflect changing cultural attitudes or social influences among young Americans.
Underlying Factors and Broader Implications
While the report does not pinpoint a single cause for the decline, it raises questions about the factors driving this change. Some data points, as noted in Kaufmann's findings, align with an observed improvement in student mental health—the first sustained positive trend in over 15 years. This correlation has sparked discussions about whether social pressures or mental health challenges previously contributed to higher rates of transgender and nonbinary identification among Gen Z.
The Centre for Heterodox Social Science, which promotes open inquiry within academic circles, emphasizes that these trends vary by age group. While transgender identification has declined among college students, reports suggest that rates remain higher among younger teenagers, indicating that the shift may not be uniform across all youth demographics. This discrepancy highlights the complexity of gender identity trends and the need for further research into generational and cultural influences.
Looking Ahead: What This Means for Society
The decline in transgender identification among young Americans could have broader implications for educational institutions, policy debates, and social discourse. As colleges and universities adapt to evolving student demographics, this trend may influence discussions around gender-inclusive policies, support services, and campus culture. Additionally, the data could inform public health approaches to youth mental health, given the potential links between identity expression and well-being.
Eric Kaufmann's report underscores the dynamic nature of identity among Generation Z, suggesting that societal attitudes toward gender may be entering a new phase. As more data becomes available, researchers and policymakers will likely continue to explore how these shifts shape the experiences of young Americans in the years to come.