Abstract In the past few years, Ecuador has experienced legal changes toward the recognition of sexual minority rights. However, lesbian and gay (LG) individuals and couples still face legal obstacles to become parents and social barriers that place their families in disadvantage compared to their heterosexual counterparts. To date, it is not known whether the legal changes reflect society’s move toward

Abstract This article concerns childless bisexual and gay men’s expectations of potential future fatherhood. Social context, biological prerequisites and legal restrictions have in previous research proven to be complicating factors in the process of starting a family. This article investigates the experience of 14 bisexual and gay men in Sweden who are contemplating parenthood. Semi-structured interviews

Abstract Minority stress has a range of negative and protective outcomes for lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer, and other sexual minority (LGBQ+) people. The internalization of societal stigma associated with sexual minority relationships may impact decisions related to outness and/or concealment of one’s romantic relationship, which may affect the relationship. Building on previous research, we examined

Abstract Reductions in structural stigma, such as gaining access to legalized same-sex marriage, is associated with positive psychological and physical health outcomes among sexual minority adults. However, these positive outcomes may be less robust among sexual minority women (SMW; e.g., lesbian, bisexual, queer) than sexual minority men and new measures are needed to develop a more nuanced understanding

Abstract The aim of the study was to explore the experiences and representations of Italian parents of TGE (Transgender and Gender-Expansive) adolescents diagnosed with gender dysphoria who, for the first time, attended a gender clinic for psychological consultation. This study presents findings from fifteen parents of TGE adolescents, mostly (93%) trans boys, aged 14–19. The analysis identified four

Abstract Epidemiological studies suggest that more youth are identifying as gender expansive (e.g., transgender, gender nonconforming) than ever before. However, due to stressors like discrimination, gender minorities remain at significantly higher risk for mental and physical health problems than their cisgender peers. While initial research has shown that parental support of youth’s minority gender

Abstract Transgender and nonbinary (TNB) individuals may elect gender-affirming treatment that may affect their ability to have genetically-related children. The purpose of this study was to explore how the family-building goals of TNB college and graduate students shaped decisions about fertility preservation and gender-affirming care. Participants (N = 39) completed a phone interview and demographic

Abstract Before the so-called “gayby boom” in the 1990s the most common pathway to parenthood for gay men was heterosexual marriage. Since the 1990s most research on gay parenting has focused on intentional gay fathers – those parenting after coming out as gay – and the experiences of post-heterosexual divorce gay fathers (PHGF) have largely been overlooked, even though they remain the largest group

Abstract The study engages with several lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, pansexual and queer (LGBTPQ) identifying youth in South Africa to explore their perceptions and realities regarding coming out to their parents and parental reactions. In-depth interviews were utilized to engage with the 17 participants, aged 19 to 32 years old, all of whom were students at the same university in South Africa

Abstract There is a need for more research on the experiences of affirming parents of pre-adolescent transgender and gender non-conforming (TGNC) children. This study explores how parents conceptualized advocacy roles. Eleven parents of TGNC children age 13 and under completed semi-structured phone interviews. Ten parents considered themselves advocates, with digital advocacy being the most common

Abstract This study concerns how male and female same-sex couples across countries organize their paid and household labor. Using unique data compiled from multiple national surveys in 7 western countries (N = 723), we examined same-sex couples’ paid and household task allocation and evaluate descriptively how this is associated with countries’ gender egalitarianism. For paid labor, results indicate

Abstract Parental support plays a vital role in protecting trans youth from mental health risks including depression, anxiety, substance use, and suicide. This study examined the acceptability of the Parent Support Program, an online intervention aimed at increasing transgender affirming behaviors. The Parent Support Program includes three modules with psychoeducational text, affirming images, educational

Abstract The U.S. National Longitudinal Lesbian Family Study was initiated in 1986 to follow a cohort from the first generation of planned lesbian-parent families in which the children were conceived through donor insemination. Since that time, 92% of the families in the original cohort are still involved in the study. During the most recent wave (6th) for which data gathering was completed in October

Abstract This qualitative study examined gay men’s recalled conversations about sexual identity and sexual behaviors with both their mothers and fathers. Thirteen interviews with gay men, ages 19-30, were analyzed using the iterative inductive and deductive processes related to descriptive qualitative analysis. Results showed that parents initially assumed their sons were heterosexual, initially viewed

Abstract The data analyzed here were obtained from an online survey of 1612 LGBTQ members and former members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS, Mormon). Quantitative and qualitative comparisons were made between the men and women in this sample with regard to religiosity (participation, belief, and current attitudes). Women exhibited a greater degree of alienation from the church

(2020). Working with Transgender Young People and their Families: A Critical Developmental Approach.. Journal of GLBT Family Studies. Ahead of Print.

Abstract Hostility toward same-sex parenting is widespread. Literature supports one persistent argument against same-sex parenting which focusses on the concern for children’s wellbeing, whereas lesbian and gay parents’ ability is sometimes evaluated positively. In particular, the belief that children need both a father and a mother impacts the evaluation that same-sex parents are unfit to raise well-adjusted

Abstract The aim of this article is to convey lessons learned from a recent research study on Black lesbian, parented, partnered mothers and their families’ experiences, lessons that challenge the cisheteronormative methodology for family studies and conducting research. Methodological barriers, including the researcher’s white identity, language usage, and the political context, are used as examples

Abstract Few studies compare family communication about sex and relationships for sexual minority youth versus hetero-sexual teenagers. Further, existing studies often focus on mothers, overlooking fathers and extended family. Our survey of 952 adolescents aged 14-21 included 115 adolescents disclosing non-heterosexual attraction. Mothers offered more sexual protection methods messages to their non-SM

Abstract Little is known about the parenting style of male couples who become fathers via surrogacy, adoption or fostering. In a European study, 35 gay fathers and 33 heterosexual fathers answered questionnaires with respect to their parenting style with their first-born child, temperament characteristics of that child, and their own personality. The results indicate that gay fathers show higher levels

Abstract Appearing culturally “gender-normative” represents one of the ways that gender identity is salient to others. In the context of continued controversy surrounding children’s gender role development in sexual minority parent families, the current study examined gender presentation (i.e., appearing gender-conforming or nonconforming) among adopted children and their lesbian, gay, and heterosexual

Abstract There is a growing need for culturally specific information regarding the intersections of religion, spirituality, and various sexual orientations/attractions. In this article, we attempt to provide clinicians, scholars, advocacy groups, and religious organizations with salient information regarding the psychological and interpersonal functioning of current and former members of the Church

Abstract This article explores the perceptions of Millennial-age LBGTQ + individuals raised in conservative Christian families (Seventh-day Adventist) about their coming out experiences with family members. The analysis examines six strategies that participants identified as helping regain family equilibrium post-coming out. These strategies included: parent’s expression of unconditional love, passing

Abstract As more queer cisgender women and gender-expansive individuals become parents, research must consider current barriers to family formation. This study used a modified grounded theory approach to conduct 22 semi-structured interviews aimed at understanding the role of queer identity in pregnancy desires and decisions among individuals assigned female at birth (AFAB) who identify as queer. Numerous

Abstract This study examined the sexual identity management strategies employed by GLB emerging adults when interacting with their parents, siblings, and close peers. For each context, perceived acceptance of sexual orientation and relationship closeness were examined as predictors of being explicitly out. Being explicitly out was also examined as a predictor of psychological well-being. Data were

Abstract The families of people of Color and indigenous people (POCI) are often analyzed as hostile institutions for sexual and gender diverse (SGD) adults. Using 58 interviews with SGD POCI from the Strengthening Colors of Pride 2018 Interview Study, we argue that Black and Latinx SGD adults gain resilience from family role models, mostly resilient mothers and othermothers. These resilient family

Abstract Ulwaluko is a traditional heterosexual Xhosa male circumcision rite of passage to manhood practiced in South Africa. This tradition plays a significant role in defining and constructing masculine identity. Despite South Africa having progressive legislation on lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender rights, gay men are discouraged from participating in Ulwaluko. Recent studies suggest that

Is with great enthusiasm that we introduce to you our special issue on family and community among sexual and gender diverse (SGD) People of Color and Indigenous People (POCI). We believe that this special issue meaningfully increases knowledge and awareness of the relationship between SGD POCI individuals and their families and communities. Throughout the special issue, the editors and authors aimed

Abstract Researchers have documented that LGBTQ persons of Color in the United States of America experience intersectional microaggressions and social support from their family and community members. Given the manifestation of heteronormativity (i.e., normalizing heterosexuality and gender binary system) and homonormativity (i.e., constructing LGBTQ identities as “White”) in North America, researchers

Abstract Families of sexual minority individuals may serve a supportive role, however, they may also serve as another source of discrimination and rejection. Cultural beliefs may influence family members’ responses to sexual minorities. However, aspects of Latinx culture may be associated with family support of Latinx sexual minorities. We conducted a systematic review to examine the role that cultural

Abstract Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer (LGBTQ) youth are at an increased risk for social isolation and family rejection. This is particularly true in African American communities where there is an increased lack of social support and acceptance for LGBTQ youth from their biological families, communities, churches, schools and healthcare systems. To counteract the social isolation and

Abstract This study attempted to measure relationship satisfaction, social support, and psychological well-being in a sample of 235 Italian lesbian and gay individuals (46.8% were female, and 53.2% were male, age M = 32) with an average age of 32 years. We administered a research protocol composed of the Gay and Lesbian Relationship Satisfaction Scale (Belous & Wampler, 2016 Belous, C. K., & Wampler

Abstract Guided by intersectionality theory, we examined the prevalence and influence of various types of stressors and support on the mental health of Black sexual minorities, paying special attention to the role of families. We used a United States national sample of 1,123 Black sexual minority college students drawn from the Collegiate Center for Mental Health 2013-2014 data set. Participants reported

Abstract The cultural value of familismo is regarded as one of the main sources of support and reliance among Latina/o families. However, such familial dynamics can be challenged when involving sexual identities that do not align with familial values or traditional cultural expectations in Latina/o families, such as queerness. Thus, the author proposes the concept of precarious familismo to capture

Abstract The purpose of this study is to aid practitioners and researchers in identifying standardized couple and family measures appropriate for use with gay, lesbian, bisexual, and trans (GLBT) populations. We conducted a systematic review of the literature and identified and evaluated 32 assessments in seven categories: abuse and conflict, couple’s relationship, sex, experiences of affiliates of

Abstract Decades of empirical research has demonstrated that same-sex parenting can produce outcomes that are, at least, comparable to hetero-normative parenting. Less research, however, has examined the common, process-oriented experiences of same-sex adoptive parents. To this end, the current study utilized qualitative interviewing techniques, with nine participants, to discern: (1) the ways in which

Abstract Scholarly attention has recently been given to the ways in which gender and parenting identities intersect, yet little is known about how children and adolescents with a trans* parent experience family life and relationships. This article reports data from a qualitative study in the UK based on interviews with 29 children and adolescents aged 5–18, all of whom have at least one parent who

Abstract Same-sex families are distinct: at least one parent is not genetically related to each child and external state regulation of coupling and separation processes is scarce. The disassembling of such families therefore offers a singular setting to explore nontraditional perceptions and enactments of family and kinship. Tracing separation processes and custody agreements of same-sex couples with

Abstract This article examines how minority sexual identity plots in prime-time South African soap operas queered the family talk. It further explores how young people with (un)disclosed minority sexual identities navigate within these discursive or affirming dialogs that follow. Nine (9) participants (3 lesbian and 6 gay students) shared their narratives through one-to-one interviews on family dialogs

Abstract Gay and bisexual men (GBM) experience disproportionate rates of mental health and other negative health outcomes. For GBM in relationships, contextualizing the myriad of negative outcomes as a dyadic process may provide insight into the mechanisms through which these adverse outcomes develop. The objective of this review is to examine the current state of the relationship science literature

Abstract British South Asian gay men may face significant psychological distress as a result of parental rejection due to their sexual orientation. This study is the first in the UK to examine parental reactions to British South Asian young men who come out as gay. Twelve British South Asian parents participated in “conversational enquiries,” a series of unstructured interviews, which explored their

Abstract Parental acceptance is critical to the well-being of sexual minority youth, yet little research has been conducted with fathers, or with Latinx parents of sexual minorities. Understanding Latinx fathers’ cultural context and how it operates to facilitate or challenge acceptance of their sexual minority child could contribute new knowledge regarding Latinx culture, Latinx families, and intersectionality

Abstract Queer stepfamilies occupy multiple marginalized statuses (e.g., queer, step). Accordingly, it is logical to expect these stepfamilies might be particularly vulnerable to adjustment difficulties, and scant literature demonstrates some of these. Other literature suggests some queer stepfamilies might be particularly flexible, adept, and less rooted in heteronormative ideals (e.g., expecting

Abstract Transgender and gender diverse (TGD) individuals face stigmatization from family members and peers, placing this group at high risk of adverse outcomes including suicidality, substance abuse, and compromised mental health. This article uses a literature review approach to explore the common experiences of parents of TGD individuals as they navigate their relationship with their TGD children

Abstract Recent legal and social changes in marriage equality, parenting among same-sex couples, and fatherhood discourses may prompt more US gay and bisexual men to desire fatherhood. However, scholars know little about fatherhood desires among these men. Therefore, we investigated temporal changes in fatherhood desires and perceptions of being bothered by future childlessness among US gay, bisexual

Abstract One of the most notable gaps in the growing field examining parents' adjustments to their offspring's nonheterosexuality concerns parents' responses to same-sex marriage and (grand)children from nonheterosexual relationships. Informed both by the life stories of gay, lesbian, and bisexual (GLB) migrants who are married or raising children with a same-sex partner in Belgium and the Netherlands

Abstract In the United Kingdom, trans and gender-diverse children are increasingly visible within the school system. We examined data obtained from 23 parents who are supportive of their trans and gender-diverse children. We draw on the insights of Freire (2000), who suggested that critical education in its widest sense is a basic element of progressive social change. Parents face interpersonal and

Abstract How can someone successfully integrate a lesbian, gay, or bisexual (LGB) identity and a Mormon identity? Using a sample of 530 LGB-identified individuals raised in the Later-Day Saints (LDS) church, this study asks how factors of empowerment are associated with sexual identity affirmation and mental health outcomes. We found that sexual identity support, connection needs support, LGBT community

Abstract This exploratory study builds upon previous research relating to grandparents of transgender and gender-diverse (TGD) youth by investigating the experiences of 2 affirming grandmothers raising their transgender granddaughters (age 6 years at T1). Participants reported experiences similar to those reported by affirming parents of TGD children, such as facing resistance from their communities

Abstract Limited research examines the impact of attachment on variables reflecting relationship functioning (i.e., relationship satisfaction, sexual satisfaction, and relationship commitment), especially among sexual-minority women (SMW). Given that such research utilizes a heterocentric lens, it is difficult to discern whether prior findings would also extend to SMW. Additional research is, therefore

Abstract We review methodological opportunities and lessons learned in conducting a longitudinal, prospective study of same-sex couples with civil unions, recruited from a population-based sample, who were compared with same-sex couples in their friendship circle who did not have civil unions, and heterosexual married siblings and their spouse. At Time 1 (2002), Vermont was the only US state to provide

Abstract Research evidence suggests that education can play an important role in a family’s acceptance and support of a trans(gender) young person. However, there is a lack of robust evidence around the impact of education programs for these families. This article reports the findings of a mixed-methods evaluation of an online education program developed for families of trans young people. Surveys

Abstract Recent scholars have highlighted the relative lack of research on sexual and gender minorities, and indicate that even less is known about sexual and gender minorities of color. Utilizing the resiliency and intersectionality perspectives of minority stress, this study seeks to address this gap by examining the effects of community and individual resilience on psychological well-being among

Abstract Australia is one of the last Western countries to legalize marriage between same-sex couples. Research suggests that the delay in marriage equality may be a consequence of societies’ conceptual connection between marriage and family being an ultimately heterosexual experience. The aim of this study was to investigate attitudes toward same-sex parenting within the marriage equality debate.

Abstract This research explores LGBTQ+ (queer) polyamorous family practices. This work is critical for family studies, as queer polyamorous families challenge heteronormativity, resist assimilationism, and broaden cultural understandings of family. This article presents findings from a larger qualitative study on queer polyamory that involved in-depth interviews with 55 queer adults of diverse identities

Abstract Gay and lesbian individuals often wait until moving away to college before they come out to their parents. Individuals who are rejected by their parents often report mental health concerns, whereas individuals who perceive sexuality-related support from their parents report higher self-esteem and improved well-being. However, researchers have conducted limited work in exploring the nature

Abstract This study provides critical contributions to the study of gay, lesbian bisexual, transgender, queer (GLBTQ) college students by examining the role of family and microaggressions on psychological intimate partner violence. Specifically, the role of interparental conflict, harsh parenting, and microaggressions on psychological perpetration and victimization are assessed. This study includes