What Moral Responsibilities Do Parents Have To Support, Rather Than Suppress, Their LGBT Children's Identities?
Parenting is one of the most challenging tasks that an individual can face in life. Aside from providing for basic needs such as food, shelter, and clothing, it also involves shaping the values, beliefs, and behaviors of the child. This process begins at birth and continues throughout their entire lives.
Parenting is especially difficult when parents have to support rather than suppress their children's identities, particularly those who identify as LGBTQ+. In this essay, I will discuss why parents should not impose their beliefs on their children regarding their gender identity or sexual orientation.
One reason why parents should not suppress their children's LGBTQ+ identities is that doing so could lead to serious psychological consequences. According to a study published in the journal Pediatrics, LGBTQ+ youth are more likely to experience depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts compared to their non-LGBTQ+ peers. This is often due to feelings of rejection, isolation, and marginalization within their families and communities. By accepting their children for who they are and supporting them through these difficulties, parents can help prevent these negative outcomes.
Another reason is that parental acceptance can improve their children's physical health. Research has shown that LGBTQ+ individuals who experienced high levels of family rejection were more likely to engage in risky behavior, such as substance abuse and unprotected sex. They were also less likely to seek regular medical care, which can result in worse overall health outcomes. On the other hand, those with supportive families had better mental and physical health and were more likely to receive regular checkups. By allowing their children to be open about their identities, parents can promote good habits and ensure that they get the care they need.
Parental acceptance can benefit society as a whole. When parents reject their children for being LGBTQ+, it perpetuates harmful stereotypes and contributes to discrimination. This can create an environment where people feel unsafe to express themselves honestly and openly. It also reinforces the idea that certain types of relationships or identities are not valid or worthy of recognition. By encouraging acceptance and inclusion, parents can help create a world where everyone feels comfortable expressing their true selves without fear of judgment or stigma.
Parents have moral responsibilities to support rather than suppress their children's LGBTQ+ identities. Doing so promotes positive mental and physical health outcomes, reduces risk-taking behaviors, and improves societal attitudes towards marginalized groups. By accepting their children for who they are, parents can provide them with the love, support, and understanding that they need to thrive and live fulfilling lives.
What moral responsibilities do parents have to support, rather than suppress, their LGBT children's identities?
Parents play an important role in shaping their child's identity and should not suppress it but instead, encourage them to express themselves freely and openly. They must provide guidance and acceptance while also being aware of societal norms that may influence their child's behavior.