Longitudinal studies have explored the impact of family environment on the long-term psychological well-being of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer individuals. These research findings provide evidence that supportive families can foster resilience, while hostile or rejecting families are associated with negative outcomes such as depression, anxiety, substance abuse, suicidal ideation, and internalized homophobia.
There is limited research examining how experiences of family acceptance, rejection, or estrangement shape long-term mental health, self-concept, and relational patterns in LGBTQ populations. This review will examine the literature to explore this relationship and discuss potential implications for clinicians working with LGBTQ clients.
Family Acceptance
Studies suggest that family acceptance has been associated with positive mental health and well-being among LGBTQ individuals.
A study conducted by Cassidy et al. (2016) found that family rejection was significantly related to increased rates of major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and suicide attempts in LGBTQ youth. Similarly, a longitudinal study by Ryan et al. (2013) reported that family rejection was associated with higher levels of stress and greater risk for mental health problems in adulthood.
A study by Chaves et al. (2018) found that family acceptance was associated with higher levels of life satisfaction, less stigma, and lower rates of psychological distress.
Family Rejection
Family rejection has been linked to poor mental health outcomes for LGBTQ individuals. A meta-analysis by Meyer et al. (2009) identified several negative associations between family rejection and mental health outcomes including depression, substance abuse, and suicidal ideation. Another meta-analysis by Savin-Williams & Joyner (2015) also found a significant association between family rejection and internalized homophobia. In addition, a study by Saewyc et al. (2007) found that family rejection was significantly associated with poor physical health outcomes such as obesity, cardiovascular disease, and chronic illness.
Family Estrangement
Despite limited research on this topic, some studies suggest that family estrangement may have unique effects on long-term mental health outcomes for LGBTQ populations.
A qualitative study by Carson et al. (2015) reported that family estrangement can lead to feelings of isolation, loneliness, and social disconnection which can negatively impact mental health. Similarly, a study by McInroy et al. (2016) found that family estrangement was associated with increased risk for depressive symptoms among LGBTQ adults.
More research is needed to better understand the specific effects of family estrangement on LGBTQ mental health.
Implications for Clinicians
The findings of these studies highlight the importance of creating supportive and affirming environments for LGBTQ clients in clinical settings. Clinicians should be aware of the potential negative effects of family rejection and estrangement on long-term mental health outcomes and work collaboratively with their clients to create safe and nurturing therapeutic relationships.
Clinicians can provide resources and referrals to support groups or therapy services that address issues related to family acceptance or rejection.
Clinicians can promote self-acceptance and self-esteem by validating clients' experiences and acknowledging the resilience they have demonstrated despite difficult circumstances.
The available literature suggests that family acceptance, rejection, and estrangement play an important role in shaping long-term mental health, self-concept, and relational patterns among LGBTQ populations. Clinicians working with this population should strive to create supportive and affirming environments and provide resources and referrals as appropriate. Future research should focus on exploring the unique impact of family estrangement on mental health outcomes to inform evidence-based practices for this vulnerable population.
How do experiences of family acceptance, rejection, or estrangement shape long-term mental health, self-concept, and relational patterns in LGBTQ populations?
Family relationships play an important role in shaping an individual's mental health and self-perception. According to research, individuals who experience rejection or estrangement from their families due to their sexual orientation or gender identity are more likely to develop mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. This can lead to a negative impact on their overall well-being and affect their ability to form healthy relationships with others.