Parent support for same-sex relationships: Considerations for clinical work and intervention research.

Abstract

Researchers have identified a range of ways in which parents can support and reject a child's same-sex relationship; likewise, researchers have highlighted the importance of family support for same-sex relationships. Although a small number of intervention studies have been designed for parents of sexual minorities, there is little to no intervention research focused on parent support for same-sex relationships. This article uses the theory of planned behavior as an organizing framework to highlight relevant literature about predictors of behavioral change and applications to sexual minority populations. These findings are then applied toward specific clinical intervention strategies and suggested areas for intervention research regarding parent support for same-sex relationships. This represents a needed approach toward addressing minority stress and enhancing resilience in ways that extend beyond asking members of a same-sex relationship to cope with relationship-based minority stress. Implications for clinical work and future research are discussed.

Underscoring risk and resilience factors in sexual and gender minority relationships from theory to practice.

“…This rejection may be verbalized directly or take nonverbal forms such not including a same-sex partner in family gatherings. In contrast, family support can both “prevent and protect against the impacts of minority stress.” Applying the theory of planned behavior (McEachan et al, 2011), Goodman (2022) offers suggestions for how clinical work could incorporate attitudes, self-efficacy, and behavioral intentions when working with parents seeking to support their child’s same-sex relationship. For example, Goodman suggests families may benefit from strategies that increase positive attitudes, challenge social norms (e.g., reducing the impact of homonegative social norms on a parent’s behavior), and bolster parents’ self-efficacy to help their children navigate relational concerns.…”

“…Interventions that seek to engage key social network members, such as parents, who serve as critical sources of support for SGM individuals and their relationships, are therefore an essential component of a comprehensive strategy to enhance the quality of SGM relationships. Clinicians are encouraged to assess parents’ attitudes and increase their self-efficacy in supporting their child’s same-sex relationships (Goodman, 2022). Pentel and Baucom’s clinical framework can help guide evidence-based practice, including attending to universal factors relevant to all couples’ relationship functioning, sexual-minority specific factors impacting couple functioning, and within-group diversity.…”