THE PROTECTIVE ROLE OF FAMILY MEMBERS AND FAMILY SYSTEMS FOR SEXUALLY AND GENDER DIVERSE ADOLESCENTS

Families can be vital influences and sources of support for sexually and gender diverse (SGD) adolescents during their identity development. In the current United States political and societal climate, SGD adolescents are at higher risk of developing mental health concerns, so it is essential for families to promote resilience and strengthen protective factors. According to family systems, ecological systems, and developmental life course theories, adolescents exist in family contexts that are influenced by societal place and time, creating unique opportunities for parents to cultivate resilience when talking about LGBTQ+ experiences and safeguarding against potential instances of discrimination. Drawing from various socialization theories, it is evident that parents can have conversations around identity to instill pride and prepare SGD adolescents for bias, regardless of their shared and unshared identities. It is especially important to support transgender and gender diverse youth, and parents can provide support through socialization, advocacy, and resources. Three recommendations for parents to support SGD adolescents are to have deliberate conversations about identity, engage in intentional and ongoing education, and parent with flexibility, creativity, and intentionality.