Parenting LGBTQ+ Youth

This compassionate guide helps parents examine and transform their approach to raising LGBTQ+ youth through thoughtful explorations of personal values, societal expectations, and the power of loving support. Using the authors' LOVE framework (Looking at Our Values and Expectations), this engaging workbook helps parents understand their vital role in their LGBTQ+ child's identity development and well-being. Drawing on extensive clinical work, research, and personal experience, it offers insights and strategies to affirm and support parents as they navigate the challenges and joys of raising children to be their authentic selves. This book is divided into six modular chapters; each one explores an important theme, experience, and/or assumption with tools for readers navigating these critical stages in their parenting journey. Each activity is based on scientifically proven ways of boosting self-understanding, self-confidence, emotion regulation, and relationship quality. Chapters invite opportunities for learning and self-reflection and offer tools to promote healthy conversations and advocacy in various social contexts. At the end of this book, parents will have gained an invaluable set of tools for developing deeper insights and empathy for their LGBTQ+ child. Parenting LGBTQ+ Youth is designed for readers in all stages of their parenting journey. It is an essential guide for parents, caregivers, and family members committed to active allyship and support of the LGBTQ+ youth in their lives.

Douglas Knutson (he/him), PhD, LHSP, ABPP is Counseling Psychology Program Training Director and Associate Professor at Oklahoma State University, USA. Kim Shenold (she/her), BA, is Transitional Living and Intervention Programs Coordinator at Payne County Youth Services, Inc., where she provides a wide range of outreach, education, and group services. Janet Fultz (she/her), NCC, MS, LPC-S is Executive Director of Payne County Youth Services, Inc., and has served the Payne County area via clinical services, administration, outreach, and grant writing for more than 25 years.

Introduction 1. Beginning Your Journey Toward Building An Affirming Family 2. Terminology And Facts Your Queer Kid (Likely) Wants You To Know 3. Everyone Has An Identity Journey... What's Yours? 4. Growing Up LGBTQ+: The Basics 5. Coming Out: Making Safe Spaces And Growing Your Affirming Family 6. Advocacy: Showing Up For Your LGBTQ+ Child 7. Appendices