Being a girl who likes sports does not automatically mean that someone is transgender. Likewise, being a boy who enjoys traditionally feminine activities does not automatically indicate a particular gender identity.
The American Psychological Association specifically cautions against confusing gender nonconformity with being transgender. A person can express themselves in ways that do not conform to traditional gender expectations without identifying as transgender.
However, that does not establish Flavin's broader claim that celebrity children identify as transgender because they lack structure.
There is currently no evidence establishing that growing up in Hollywood causes someone to become transgender.
That is where the discussion requires careful distinction.
What Research Says About Parenting and Transgender Youth
Research does support the importance of family relationships for transgender and gender-diverse young people.
But the evidence does not support the simplistic idea that a lack of discipline or household structure creates transgender identity.
The American Academy of Pediatrics has published guidance emphasizing comprehensive care and support for transgender and gender-diverse children and adolescents. Its policy statement, reaffirmed in 2023, recognizes that these young people can experience significant health disparities and that families often need education, support and access to appropriate professional care.
The AAP has also published work examining parenting practices for transgender and gender-diverse children. Its recommendations emphasize listening to children, avoiding misgendering and providing supportive environments rather than attempting to force children into conventional gender roles.
The American Psychological Association similarly advises parents not to force gender-nonconforming children to behave in more traditionally masculine or feminine ways. Instead, parents are encouraged to maintain communication and seek qualified professional guidance when concerns arise.
The CDC has reached a similar conclusion regarding the importance of family relationships.
Its guidance on LGBTQ+ teenagers states that parents can play an important role in their children's health and well-being. A positive family environment characterized by parental support and lower conflict is associated with healthier emotional adjustment.
This evidence supports part of Flavin's broader emphasis on parenting — but not necessarily the causal explanation she offered.
Parents matter enormously.
That does not mean parents determine whether a child is transgender.
Structure and Acceptance Are Not Opposites
One of the most useful ways to understand this debate is to recognize that structure and acceptance do not have to be competing ideas.
Children need boundaries.
They also need emotional safety.
A parent can tell a child that homework must be completed, bedtime matters and respectful behavior is expected while simultaneously allowing the child to explore interests, personality and identity.
Good parenting does not necessarily mean controlling every aspect of a child's development.
Nor does accepting a child's feelings mean abandoning boundaries.
For example, a parent can say:
"You are expected to treat other people respectfully."
"You still have responsibilities at home."
"You need to attend school and complete your work."
"You can talk to me about anything."
Those principles can coexist.
The CDC's parenting guidance similarly emphasizes communication, involvement and knowing what teenagers are doing while also encouraging supportive relationships.
This is particularly relevant for children growing up under extraordinary circumstances.
Celebrity parents may need structure just as much as ordinary parents do — perhaps even more because their children face additional pressures.
The Psychological Pressure of Growing Up Famous
Celebrity children can face challenges that are difficult for outsiders to see.
They may constantly be compared with their parents.
A child whose father is a world-famous actor may feel pressure to pursue acting even if that is not what they want. Another child may feel that every career decision will be judged against a parent's achievements.
The family name can open doors, but it can also create expectations.
A child may wonder: