This paper discusses causes and symptoms of transsexual identity in young children, especially boys. Presented are defining characteristics and possible causal factors of cross-gender behavior based on the work of Richard Green and others. Research thus far has been unable to strongly implicate either biological or psychological etiological factors, although there is some evidence which points to parenting and environmental variables as causal factors. Treatment programs, which entail family consultations and individual counseling with the child, and the ethics of early intervention with children who show cross-sexual tendencies are discussed. (Author/SB)