Positive parenting by LGBTQ individuals is helping raise children who are well adjusted, secure and happy. Research is showing, again and again, how the children fare well socially and academically. “Not only has research found sexual minority parents to be succeeding in parental roles; it also has revealed that their children are developing in positive ways. In study after study, children with sexual minority parents have shown outcomes that are similar to those of their peers who have heterosexual parents.”
A study in 2019 found that 63% of LGBTQ millennials (aged 18-35) had talked about expanding their families or becoming parents for the first time. The figures have definitely multiplied since then. Considering how much harder it is for LGBTQ individuals to achieve parenthood, the motivation is very intense and emotional. The parents are invariably geared to make enormous sacrifices and commit to stable relationships and a nurturing home environment for their children.
The school and growing-up experience
Though the core culture at schools should endorse diversity, the reality is sometimes different. Bullying and slurs can be a challenge, with teachers not sensitized enough to cope. Special minority forums now guide parents on how to boost their children’s self-confidence and esteem and help them weather and overcome discrimination.
Towards adulthood, the picture can change substantially, with perceptions of a supportive society at large. A 2022 research reveals that nearly eight in ten Americans (79%) favor non-discrminatory laws towards the LGBTQ+ minority. Interestingly, this support is seen in major religious groups as well including Hindus (85%), Buddhists (87%), Muslims (75%).
https://www.prri.org/research/americans-support-for-key-lgbtq-rights-continues-to-tick-upward/
Educational inputs
All children are exposed to LGBTQ issues since an early age, from what they see and hear. It’s important to answer their questions, help them avoid stereotypes and embrace inclusiveness. Teachers can empower themselves, even if the school policy does not provide for it, as it happens in some states. For parents and others, there’s plenty of help at hand: a number of excellent books sensitively address gender and family structure differences such as Sara O’Leary’s ‘A Family Is a Family Is a Family’ meant for primary students. Enough videos are available online, created for different age levels, sensitively addressing gender and affirming that to be different is ok.
Community interaction needed
There are more LGBTQ people in your world than you ever thought. Get to know them, love, support, and above all, treat equally.
VOICES of ‘modern’ families
“Family is something you fight for and work for”
– Gabriel and Dylan’s Story
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T7H_K02aL6U&t=3s
Growing up, my experience
– Ben Smith
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M33NIxik0Ow&t=371s
“When they grow up I want my children to be confident and proud”
– Kristi and Theresa’s Story
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HjAbpAWGqrw
“We really are more similar than we are different”
-Perez Hilton’s Story
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TBbQ8doWn7w&t=388s
“Holding that kid will be the greatest gift in your life”
John and Anthony’s Story
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nmpkQpNqt14&t=372s
