‘Coming out’ during adolescence: How do parental attitudes towards non-heterosexuality affect the mental health and well-being of their lesbian, gay, or bisexual offspring?

Abstract

The developmental context of lesbian, gay and bisexual (LGB) adolescents remains significantly underresearched, despite reliable evidence that parents significantly affect the mental health and well-being of their offspring. This literature review suggests that negative parental attitudes towards non-heterosexuality are associated with youth homelessness, psychological conflict and mental health problems in LGB adolescents. Conversely, sexuality-specific family acceptance and support during adolescence appears to be associated with positive mental health outcomes and higher levels of well-being in LGB offspring. The review highlights the need for parent-based psychological interventions which facilitate parental acceptance and encourage active support of non-heterosexual offspring. Recommendations for future research are offered.