If your child decides to reveal their LGBT identity, it’s crucial that you prepare yourself to respond in the right manner. Equally significant is understanding the ways you should not react. Bear in mind, they’re in a delicate emotional state at this moment, and your role in their life is of utmost importance.
A Test of Respect, Acceptance, and Unconditional Love
How will you respond? Will your reaction uphold the essence of Pride – respect, acceptance, and unconditional love?
Our Roles as Parents
We’ll take a moment to reflect on our roles as parents and allies this Pride Month.
It’s time to nurture a safer and more accepting world for our children.
The Acceptable Reactions:
Let’s cover the unacceptable ways to react to your child coming out.
Positive, Supportive and Amusing Reactions:
#1. The Proud Parent:
“I’m so proud of you for being true to yourself! Now, let’s celebrate with some ice cream.”
#2. The Humorous Ally:
“Thank you for trusting me enough to share this. Do you think this means you’ll have better taste in clothes?”
#3. The Inquisitive Supporter:
“I love you, no matter what. Also, do you think you can help me understand all the letters in LGBTQ+?”
#4. The Future-Forward Supporter:
“I’ve always told you to be who you are, and I’m glad you’re doing just that. Can we now discuss how this might affect my grandparent prospects?”
#5. The Rainbow Lover:
“You know I’ve always loved the rainbow. Now I love it even more.”
#6. The TV Show Advocate:
“I am so proud that you’ve found yourself. Now, let’s find some better TV shows to represent you!”
#7. The Betting Pool Winner:
“It’s about time! I’ve been winning the family betting pool for years!”
#8. The Foodie Reliever:
“Oh, thank God! I was worried you were going to tell me you didn’t like my cooking!”
#9. The Superhero Parent:
“Thank you for sharing this. Your bravery makes me feel like I raised a superhero.”
#10. The Sports Fan:
“Well, as long as you’re not rooting for our rival football team, we’re all good.”
Coming Out Is a Crucial Life Moment
A child’s coming out process is a crucial moment in their life.
Your Reaction Matters
Reacting positively at this turning point helps them feel accepted.
This affirmation strengthens the parent-child bond, contributing to their self-esteem and emotional well-being.
Mental Health Concerns
LGBTQ+ youths face higher rates of mental health issues like depression and anxiety.
This is often due to societal stigma and discrimination.
Suicide Risks
Negative reactions to coming out can worsen these issues, potentially leading to self-esteem problems, self-harm, or in severe cases, suicide.
Confirming Identity and Building Trust
Reacting positively to a child coming out validates their identity.
It provides them with the resilience and self-confidence to navigate a world that might not always understand or accept them.
Be Supportive
You send a powerful message to your child that they are not alone, their feelings are valid, and they have a safe, supportive environment at home.
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The post 10 Great Responses to “Hey Mom, I’m Gay” – What Kind of Parent Will You Be? first appeared on Wealthy Living.
Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Mar Fernandez. The people shown in the images are for illustrative purposes only, not the actual people featured in the story.
