Glee has always been known to tackle real issues in its storyline, and the sixth season promises to discuss another controversial storyline that involves gender dysphoria.

Television, aside from entertaining, is intended to educate masses about lesser-known issues. Glee has always been a tool to disseminate awareness and the show does not shy away from incorporating these issues into their story lines. The past seasons have tackled same-sex marriages, relationships, and even death. In the latest episode of the season, Glee introduced a storyline that involved gender dysphoria.

Actress Dot Jones, who plays Coach Shannon Beiste, has always been known for her masculine looks and build, hence the reception of her character by the other characters in the show. In the series, Coach Beiste revealed that she has been diagnosed with gender dysphoria and she will have surgery to make her a fully-fledged man.

Gender dysphoria is described by Psychology Today as having feelings that do not coincide with the patient's sex. In the latest episode, Coach Beiste reveals to Sam and Sue that after years and years of being confused with herself and who she really is, she will finally do something about it and become a man. With this, the coach reveals that she will change her name from Shannon to Sheldon.

Glee made sure to distinguish gender dysphoria from homosexuality, with Sam (Chord Overstreet) asking Beiste if it meant that she is turning lesbian.

"Kiddo, this isn't about who I want to go to bed with, it's about who I want to go to bed as. I've always been attracted to men, and they say that's not going to change," says Coach Beiste.

Jones has spoken to website, Hollywood Reporter, and reveals that her character won't be seen in a couple of episodes in preparation to the change. The actress then reveals that she will be back in the sixth episode and talks about what her character will be doing.

"In this episode, I talk about what my next steps are and what I'm having done, so when I come back it's after all of that and I'm coming back as Sheldon," said Jones.