The typology and content of parent-gay son communication about sexual identity: A qualitative content analysis

Abstract

Abstract This study aimed to bridge the existing gap in the parent-child communications literature with a specific focus on parent-gay son communications regarding sexual identity, after coming out. Nineteen interviews with self-identified gay men, ages 19–30, were transcribed and analyzed using the iterative qualitative content analysis methods. Communications vacillated between discouraging and affirming as they helped participants develop renewed confidence about their sexual identity. Although the overall conversational content lacked adequate, relevant, and/or time-sensitive information for these participants, it helped boost self-esteem, created attitudinal changes toward their own sexual identity. Recommendations are provided for both parent and child who are engaging in these conversations.