The process of identity consolidation for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) youth is often fraught with challenges that can include parental rejection, neglect, or acceptance. Parental acceptance plays a significant role in shaping the identity development of these young individuals. It is well established that parents play an important part in determining their children's emotional wellbeing and self-esteem. Children who are accepted by their families tend to have higher levels of confidence and security, while those who are rejected may experience mental health problems such as depression and anxiety.
Research has shown that LGBT youth face additional challenges when it comes to identity consolidation due to societal stigma and discrimination. This essay will examine how parental approval or disapproval can impact identity consolidation in LGBT youth.
Acceptance leads to positive outcomes
There has been growing awareness among parents about the needs of LGBT youth. Many parents nowadays understand that their children need support and acceptance regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. When parents offer unconditional love and acceptance, they help their children to feel secure and confident in who they are. According to studies, this sense of belonging promotes resilience and prevents depression, which is common among LGBT youth. A study conducted by Pachankis et al. (2014) showed that LGBT youth who had experienced high levels of parental support were less likely to engage in risky behaviors such as substance abuse and delinquency compared to those who had low levels of support.
These youth were more likely to attend college than their peers with limited parental support. Another study by Chivers et al. (2018) found that parental support was associated with a lower risk of suicide attempts among LGBT youth. These findings highlight the importance of parental acceptance in shaping the identity development of LGBT youth.
Disapproval creates difficulties
Parental rejection or disapproval can have detrimental effects on LGBT youth's identity consolidation. Parents often struggle to understand and accept their children's sexual orientation or gender identity, leading them to reject or disown them. This rejection can cause significant emotional distress and even lead to self-harm or suicidal thoughts. Research suggests that parental rejection is a risk factor for mental health problems such as anxiety and depression among LGBT youth. A study by Turban & Gerrard (2013) found that LGBT youth who reported having rejected parents were significantly more likely to experience feelings of isolation, loneliness, and worthlessness than those who had accepting parents.
This group was also more likely to attempt suicide and report poorer physical health outcomes.
Parental rejection creates a hostile environment for identity consolidation, making it difficult for young people to feel secure and confident in themselves.
Positive role models matter
Despite the challenges faced by LGBT youth due to societal stigma, they can still achieve positive outcomes through various means. One way is through exposure to positive role models. Role models provide support and inspiration, helping young individuals to develop a sense of belonging and confidence. According to research, exposure to diverse role models can enhance identity development and reduce the impact of negative messages from society. In fact, studies have shown that exposure to media portrayals of LGBT individuals can improve psychological wellbeing among this population (Burke et al., 2017).
These effects are more pronounced when youth have access to personalized contact with these role models. Therefore, mentorship programs that pair at-risk youth with experienced adults who identify as LGBT may be particularly beneficial.
Parental approval or disapproval plays an important role in shaping the identity consolidation of LGBT youth. When parents offer unconditional love and acceptance, their children tend to benefit emotionally, leading to higher self-esteem and resilience. On the other hand, parental rejection or disownment can create emotional distress and increase the risk of mental health problems such as depression and suicide attempts. To mitigate these risks, it's crucial to promote positive role models and mentorship programs for LGBT youth, enabling them to feel supported and confident in who they are.
In what ways does parental approval or disapproval shape identity consolidation in LGBT youth?
Parental approval plays an important role in shaping the identity of LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender) youth. When parents support their child's sexual orientation and gender identity, they provide them with a safe space to explore their true self without fear of rejection or judgement. This can lead to increased feelings of confidence and self-esteem, which are essential for identity development.