The positive aspects of being the parent of an LGBTQ child

Kirsten A. Gonzalez; Sharon S. Rostosky; Robert D. Odom; Ellen D.B. Riggle

doi:10.1111/famp.12009

The positive aspects of being the parent of an LGBTQ child

Kirsten A. Gonzalez, Sharon S. Rostosky, Robert D. Odom, Ellen D.B. Riggle

Research output: Contribution to journal › Article › peer-review

83 Scopus citations

Abstract

Parenting an LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer) identified child presents unique opportunities for growth and development. This study focused on self-reported perceptions of the positive aspects of being the parent of an LGBTQ child. Participants (N = 142) were mothers (83.8%) and fathers (16.2%) of LGBTQ identified individuals who responded to an open-ended online survey. Thematic analysis revealed five primary themes: Personal Growth (open mindedness, new perspectives, awareness of discrimination, and compassion), Positive Emotions (pride and unconditional love), Activism, Social Connection, and Closer Relationships (closer to child and family closeness). The practice implications of these findings for supporting parents in envisioning positive relationship outcomes for themselves and their children are highlighted in the discussion.

Original language	English
Pages (from-to)	325-337
Number of pages	13
Journal	Family Process
Volume	52
Issue number	2
DOIs	https://doi.org/10.1111/famp.12009
State	Published - Jun 2013

Keywords

Gay
LGBT
Lesbian
Parent Growth
Positive Narratives
Sexual Minority Identity

ASJC Scopus subject areas

Social Psychology
Clinical Psychology
Social Sciences (miscellaneous)

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10.1111/famp.12009

Cite this

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abstract = "Parenting an LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer) identified child presents unique opportunities for growth and development. This study focused on self-reported perceptions of the positive aspects of being the parent of an LGBTQ child. Participants (N = 142) were mothers (83.8%) and fathers (16.2%) of LGBTQ identified individuals who responded to an open-ended online survey. Thematic analysis revealed five primary themes: Personal Growth (open mindedness, new perspectives, awareness of discrimination, and compassion), Positive Emotions (pride and unconditional love), Activism, Social Connection, and Closer Relationships (closer to child and family closeness). The practice implications of these findings for supporting parents in envisioning positive relationship outcomes for themselves and their children are highlighted in the discussion.",

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The positive aspects of being the parent of an LGBTQ child

Abstract

Keywords

ASJC Scopus subject areas

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