Jocelyne Robert has departed from her profession as a sexologist.
In a series of recent developments, Quebec sexologist Jocelyne Robert has found herself at the centre of a controversy over her public statements on transgender issues. Despite resigning from the Ordre professionnel des sexologues du Québec (OPSQ) in 2023, questions remain about her departure and the investigations that followed.
At the heart of the controversy is Robert's self-proclaimed identity as a "sociosexologist" or "sexopedagogue," a role she has assumed for nearly a year. Critics have taken issue with her statements, which they argue lack a scientific basis and are at odds with the transgender community.
In May 2023, Robert co-signed an open letter denouncing a policy of the Ministry of Education that recommended changing the gender of children in their files without informing parents. This move sparked a strong reaction from over a hundred professionals and defenders of trans rights, who contested the open letter.
Robert, however, has defended her position, asserting that there is no scientific consensus on the matter and that she has not committed any deontological fault. She has emphasised the importance of taking the time to accompany children and explore all the reasons that push them to want to change their gender identity, warning against playing with the body.
The OPSQ, which relies on the standards of care of the World Professional Association for Transgender Health, has called for caution and competent interventions regarding gender identity, emphasising the importance of proper evaluation and adequate intervention to avoid hasty conclusions.
In a surprising turn of events, an investigation was opened against Robert by the OPSQ, but it did not reach the disciplinary council as she signed a confidential agreement and resigned at the end of the investigation conducted by the Syndic's office. It is not possible to confirm or deny whether a complaint has been filed against a member, nor to reveal the nature of the complaints or the conclusions of the investigation, as these are confidential.
Robert has also been vocal about feeling "muzzled" and resigning due to being asked to align with a school of thought she does not adhere to. Another sexologist has been the subject of a request for an investigation in connection with a public statement on trans issues, adding to the ongoing debate.
As the controversy continues to unfold, the OPSQ has published several documents on best practices regarding gender identity, underscoring their commitment to providing competent and ethical care in this complex area. The validity of certain scientific studies, including one on "social contagion," remains contested, further fuelling the ongoing debate.
In light of these developments, it is clear that the issue of gender identity and the role of professionals in this area continues to be a topic of intense discussion and debate. As the situation evolves, it is essential that all parties involved approach the issue with sensitivity, respect, and a commitment to the well-being and best interests of those involved.
In the midst of the ongoing debate, concerns have arisen about the role of 'mental-health' professionals and their approach towards 'sexual-health' issues, particularly those related to transgender individuals. The controversy surrounding Quebec sexologist Jocelyne Robert, who has questioned certain transgender policies, has highlighted the need for a more comprehensive understanding of 'health-and-wellness' issues in this area, based on scientific evidence ('the science'). Despite the investigation launched against her, Robert continues to advocate for thorough and deliberate discussions on the topic, emphasizing the significance of preserving the 'health-and-wellness' of all parties involved.
