title: The positive aspects of being the parent of an LGBTQ Child.
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.
authors.affiliation: Educational, School, and Counseling Psychology, 236 Dickey Hall, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506-0017, USA.
authors.forename: Kirsten A
authors.initials: KA
authors.lastname: Gonzalez
authors.forename: Sharon S
authors.initials: SS
authors.lastname: Rostosky
authors.forename: Robert D
authors.initials: RD
authors.lastname: Odom
authors.forename: Ellen D B
authors.initials: ED
authors.lastname: Riggle
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D001364:Awareness; D001727:Bisexuality / Q000523:psychology; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D003254:Consumer Advocacy; D004645:Empathy; D005220:Fathers / Q000523:psychology*; D005260:Female; D018452:Homosexuality, Female / Q000523:psychology; D018451:Homosexuality, Male / Q000523:psychology; D006801:Humans; D008149:Love; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009035:Mothers / Q000523:psychology*; D016487:Parenting / Q000523:psychology*; D011287:Prejudice; D012944:Social Support; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D063106:Transgender Persons; D055815:Young Adult