LGBTQ+ is an acronym that stands for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Plus, and any other identities under the umbrella of non-heterosexual or gender nonconforming. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one in six high school students identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or questioning their sexual orientation (1). This means that many young people are going through changes during adolescence that can be difficult to navigate, especially when they have little support from family and friends. Family dynamics and parental attitudes play a significant role in shaping LGBT youth's identity development, resilience, and social integration, which has been widely studied in psychology research.
Family Dynamics
According to the American Psychological Association (APA) guidelines, families should provide emotional security and stability for all members, including those who may be experiencing challenges with their sexuality or gender identity (2).
Some families reject or ignore these experiences, leading to negative outcomes such as anxiety, depression, and even suicide attempts (3). In addition, if parents do not understand what it means to be LGBTQ+, they may struggle with accepting their children's identities and creating a safe space for them to explore themselves. They may also worry about how society will perceive them and their child, resulting in isolation and fear. It is crucial for parents to seek education on LGBT issues and understand their child's needs (4).
Parental Attitudes
Parents' attitudes towards LGBT individuals can significantly impact their child's self-esteem and wellbeing. Parental acceptance has been linked to lower rates of mental health problems and higher levels of school achievement among LGBT youth (5). Conversely, parents who reject or shame their children's identities can cause lifelong trauma and interfere with their ability to form meaningful relationships (6). This rejection may lead to feelings of loneliness and hopelessness, making it harder for the child to develop confidence and trust in themselves and others. Acceptance from family members can help young people navigate social situations that might otherwise be stressful or intimidating (7).
Resilience
LGBT youth face many challenges when trying to fit into society due to stigma and discrimination, which can damage their sense of belonging and purpose (8). According to developmental psychology research, resiliency is the ability to overcome adversity and maintain positive functioning despite setbacks (9). Resilience involves building social support networks, developing coping strategies, and cultivating a sense of identity outside of one's sexual orientation or gender identity (10).
If a young person feels excluded by peers because they are gay, they must find ways to connect with other LGBTQ+ individuals who share similar experiences. They may also seek out activities that foster creativity or physical activity, like sports teams or art clubs, to build a sense of community and accomplishment.
Social Integration
Social integration refers to how well an individual fits into their social environment and interacts with others (11). The level of acceptance within a community has been found to predict mental health outcomes among LGBT youth (12). When families and friends do not offer support or understanding, these youth may turn to online communities or other unconventional sources of support.
This can lead to additional struggles as they try to balance online interactions with real-life relationships. It is crucial for parents to encourage their children to develop relationships both in person and virtually (13).
Family dynamics and parental attitudes play a significant role in shaping LGBTQ+ youth's identities. Positive family environments provide emotional security and acceptance while negative ones create feelings of shame and isolation. Resilience is essential for overcoming challenges related to discrimination and stigma, but it requires building social support networks and finding meaning beyond sexuality or gender identity. Social integration is vital for LGBT youth to feel accepted and integrated into society; however, this can be difficult without adequate resources and guidance from loved ones. By creating safe spaces for exploration and growth, parents can help their LGBT children navigate the complex world around them and live fulfilling lives.
References:
1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning (LGBTQ) youth risk and protective factors. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/lgbthealth/youth.htm
2. American Psychological Association. (2021). Guidelines for psychological practice with lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender clients. Retrieved from https://www.apa.org/pi/lgbt/resources/guidelines.pdf
3. Rider, G. N., & Huebner, D. M. (2004). Negative experiences reported by lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender youth: Implications for mental health promotion programs and interventions. Journal of Gay and Lesbian Mental Health, 8(1), 5-27.
4. Rosario, M., Schrimshaw, E. W., Hunter, J.,
How do family dynamics and parental attitudes influence sexual identity development, resilience, and social integration in LGBT youth?
The development of one's sexual identity is influenced by various factors such as family dynamics and parental attitudes. Family dynamics refer to the interpersonal relationships between members of the family. Parental attitudes towards their children are also important in shaping their child's self-identity, including their sexual orientation.