Parents' experiences regarding the coming-out process of a gay or lesbian child

Abstract

This article discusses parents' experiences regarding the coming-out process of a gay or lesbian child as revealed through a research project undertaken within a qualitative paradigm. From the semi-structured interviews conducted with a sample of parents of gay/lesbian children, data were gathered on their experiences, feelings and emotional reactions relating to the coming out of their gay/lesbian child. Factors that helped and complicated the process for parents to accept their child's homosexuality were identified and the participants gave advice to other parents on coping with a child's coming out. Recommendations, focusing specifically on further and future research, are provided.