LGBTQ youth are those who identify themselves as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning, or another non-heterosexual or gender-nonconforming identity. They are often subject to stigma, prejudice, and discrimination due to their sexual orientation and/or gender identity, which can have significant impacts on their self-esteem, mental health, and resilience. One important factor that has been studied is parental acceptance or rejection. This article will explore how parental attitudes towards LGBTQ youth affect these areas.
Parental acceptance refers to parents who acknowledge, support, and affirm their child's sexual orientation and/or gender identity, while rejecting it means the opposite. Parental rejection may manifest through verbal abuse, physical violence, social isolation, denial of access to resources and opportunities, or even disownment. These actions can result in feelings of shame, guilt, low self-worth, and loneliness among LGBTQ youth, leading to negative outcomes such as increased risk for depression, anxiety, substance use, suicidality, and school dropout. On the other hand, accepting parents provide a safe space for exploration and expression, allowing their children to develop positive identity formation, better coping skills, and stronger social support networks. According to a study by Cochran et al., "acceptance appears to be particularly protective for LGB youth in terms of internalized homophobia, depressive symptoms, and substance use."
Not all LGBTQ youth experience parental rejection; some may have no contact with their biological family or find support elsewhere.
Research shows that some LGBTQ youth report higher levels of resilience than heterosexual peers due to their experiences with adversity, enabling them to cope effectively with stress and challenges.
Interventions aimed at supporting parents and families in understanding and accepting LGBTQ identities can help reduce rejection and improve mental health outcomes.
Parental acceptance or rejection has significant implications for the well-being of LGBTQ youth, affecting self-concept, mental health, and resilience. Accepting parents create a nurturing environment where their children feel validated and supported, while rejecting parents can cause emotional distress and negative consequences. Resilient LGBTQ youth may draw strength from overcoming obstacles and finding community despite difficult circumstances.
Addressing these issues requires societal attitudes towards sexual orientation and gender identity to change, as well as providing resources and support for LGBTQ individuals and their families.
How does parental acceptance or rejection influence self-concept, mental health, and resilience among LGBTQ youth?
Parental acceptance or rejection has been found to significantly impact the development of self-concept, mental health, and resilience among LGBTQ+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning) youth.