"At one table Kirk could choose between what were considered masculine toys like plastic guns and handcuffs, and what were meant to be feminine toys like dolls and a play crib. At the other table, Kirk could choose between boys' clothing and a toy electric razor or items like dress-up jewelry and a wig. According to the case study, Kaytee Murphy was told to ignore her son when he played with feminine toys and compliment him when he played with masculine toys. "They pretty much told him he wasn't right the way that he was, but they never really explained it to him what the issue was. They did it through play," Maris said. Rekers wrote that Kirk would cry out for attention, even throwing tantrums, but Kaytee Murphy was told to keep going. At home, the punishment for feminine behavior would become more severe. The therapists instructed Kirk's parents to use poker chips as a system of rewards and punishments. According to Rekers' case study, blue chips were given for masculine behavior and would bring rewards, such as candy. But the red chips, given for effeminate behavior, resulted in "physical punishment by spanking from the father."" - Paul Buchheit

That is so heartbreaking :(( - WoH: Professor MOTHRA

Sounds like someone read about animal training and didn't consider the fact that kids aren't pets. - Heather

Sigh. :( - Derrick

Wow. Poor guy. :( - Rochelle

So messed up. Guessing this was about not raising a gay kid? I've known very masculine gay guys and very feminine straight guys. - iTad

This is just abuse. - AJ Kohn

either way.. treating ones kids as an experiment is a no no - for any decent parent ! - Peter Dawson

The guy who did the study is this douchebag: http://www.miaminewtimes.com/2010-05... - Gabe