Intersexuality and Psychology: systematic review of theses and dissertations

Résumé

The article aims to reflect on the conceptions of intersexuality in Brazilian theses and dissertations, aiming to contribute to discussions on the subject and highlight its relevance. This is a Systematic Review, carried out through five stages: exploration, cross-referencing, refinement, description and interpretation. Seven descriptors were inserted (Intersex); “Intersex”; “Intersexuality”; “Genital Ambiguity”; “Sex Differentiation Disorder”; “Sex Differentiation Disorder”; “Ambiguous Genitalia”) in the “Catálogo de Teses e Dissertações da CAPES”, without time frame or filters. The search indicated 328 productions; after the cross-referencing and refinement process, only 14 met the inclusion criteria. The results indicate that the productions are concentrated between 2007 and 2023, in states of the Southeast, Northeast and South. There is a prevalence of case studies, case reports and theoretical studies. There is a small number of postgraduate studies on intersexuality, which highlights the need for expanded studies. There is a prevalence of studies that highlight the importance of clinical psychology with intersex people and the use of depathologizing perspectives. The panorama indicates the importance of professionals prepared to provide humanized and welcoming care, allowing intersex people access to health services and psychological care without suffering stigma and discrimination.