Scottish Schools Face Controversy Over Pupils Identifying as Animals

 

In a controversial development, a second Scottish council has admitted that at least one primary school pupil has been permitted to identify as an animal, citing a condition referred to as "species dysphoria." This term describes individuals who feel their body belongs to the wrong species.

The council acknowledged that "one or more [primary school] pupil(s)" have been recognized with this condition, although experts argue there is no scientific foundation for species dysphoria. The situation follows a report from the Daily Mail last month, which revealed that a secondary school student in another region had been allowed to identify as a wolf.

Clinical neuropsychologist Dr. Tommy MacKay, based in Dunbartonshire, has dismissed the concept of species dysphoria, asserting that it does not exist and suggesting that children should be encouraged to "snap out of it." He believes schools accommodating such behavior are not providing the proper support.

Chris McGovern, chairman of the Campaign for Real Education, echoed these concerns, stating that schools should not support what may be a mental health issue or mischievous behavior, as it could undermine discipline and order within schools.

In response to a Freedom of Information request, the council involved in the recent case declined to specify which animals the pupils identified as, citing privacy concerns, given the small number of cases. The council has also not issued any specific guidance for teachers regarding species dysphoria, but stated that advice would be sought from educational psychologists if necessary.

Documents uncovered last month by the Daily Mail revealed that the first known case of a school allowing a pupil to identify as an animal in Scotland involved a student who identified as a wolf. This pupil was part of a group called "furries," individuals who adopt an animal persona.

The trend of young people identifying as animals, including foxes, birds, and snakes, appears to be growing. Some students have posted videos online expressing their "true" animal identities, while others have shared guides on how to reveal their animal personas to their parents.

While these cases have raised concerns, Dr. MacKay insists that species dysphoria is not a valid condition, warning against accommodating such behavior in schools. He believes a "common sense" approach is needed, urging children to "get to grips" with their true identities rather than adopting animal personas.