Minority Stress and Barriers to Parental Support for 2SLGBTQIA+ Youth: Differences Observed Between Transgender and Cisgender Youth

Abstract

2SLGBTQIA+ youth are especially reliant on their parents for emotional and instrumental support, but even supportive parents encounter barriers that make it difficult to provide adequate support to their children. Meyer’s minority stress model emphasizes the protective effect of social support, and the impact of parental support on the wellbeing of 2SLGBTQIA+ youth is well documented, but there is less research on what factors can bolster parental support. This study examines how parental support manifests and what factors influence it, as well as what interventions can improve parental support and acceptance, specifically in a rural context, by interviewing parents of 2SLGBTQIA+ youth in two urban-rural counties in Southwestern Ontario. Parents mention needing more local resources, including knowledgeable and educated healthcare providers, 2SLGBTQIA+ support groups for youth and parents, accessible information on 2SLGBTQIA+ related issues and experiences, gender affirming care without having to travel, and affordable mental health services. This study supports previous literature that has indicated the importance of expanding education for healthcare professionals to ensure they provide equitable and knowledgeable care to 2SLGBTQIA+ people and their families. It also suggests the implementation of local solutions such as the creation of support groups and 2SLGBTQIA+ resource centres. Improving local 2SLGBTQIA+ resources and cultural competency of providers will, in turn, supply parents with more relevant information and guidance while they learn to better support their 2SLGBTQIA+ children