The topic of religion and its impact on LGBT youth has been debated extensively among scholars for years. Many studies have shown that religious beliefs play an important role in shaping individual's attitudes towards same-sex relationships. Families also play an integral part in influencing these attitudes. This paper will examine how family members' religious beliefs can influence whether they are more likely to accept or reject their LGBT children.
Religious Beliefs and Attitudes Towards Homosexuality
Studies have consistently found a link between religiosity and homophobia. People who identify as highly religious tend to hold negative views about LGBT people and same-sex relationships. One study conducted by Dr. John Gonsiorek found that participants with higher levels of devotion to their religion were more likely to express anti-gay sentiments compared to those who had lower levels of devotion. 1 Similarly, research conducted by Dr. Ryan T. Anderson and Dr. Robert George found that individuals with strong conservative religious beliefs were less likely to support same-sex marriage than those without such convictions.2
Impact of Family Members' Religious Beliefs
Family members' religious beliefs can significantly affect how they respond to their LGBT child. According to a survey conducted by the Pew Research Center, nearly half (49%) of Americans believe that homosexuality is sinful. Among this group, 58% say that it goes against God's plan for human beings. In addition, many religions condemn homosexuality as unnatural and immoral behavior.
According to the Bible, Leviticus 18:22 states, "You shall not lie with a male as one lies with a female; it is an abomination." 3 Therefore, families with religious beliefs that view homosexuality as a sin are more likely to reject their LGBT children.
Acceptance or Rejection of LGBT Youth Based on Familial Religious Beliefs
Families with liberal religious beliefs tend to have a greater acceptance of their LGBT children. The American Journal of Public Health published a study that revealed that parents who hold liberal religious views are more accepting of their LGBT children. 4 This could be due to their belief in a loving and inclusive God who does not discriminate against sexual orientation. Similarly, parents who belong to churches that affirm the acceptance of all people regardless of sexual orientation are more likely to embrace their LGBT children. On the other hand, parents with conservative religious values may feel threatened by their child's sexuality and struggle to reconcile it with their faith. As a result, they may reject them outright or offer conditional love.
Family members' religious beliefs can significantly impact how they respond to their LGBT children. Parents who identify as highly religious or hold traditional religious beliefs are more likely to reject their LGBT children than those with more liberal perspectives.
This is not always the case, and individual attitudes towards homosexuality should also be considered when understanding a parent's response to their LGBT child.
How do familial religious beliefs influence the likelihood of acceptance or rejection of LGBT youth?
In terms of familial religious beliefs and their impact on the LGBTQ+ community, research has shown that individuals who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and other identities are more likely to experience discrimination from family members due to their sexual orientation or gender identity.