Berkeley Parents Network: Gay and Lesbian Teens

Berkeley Parents Network

Gay and Lesbian Teens

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Berkeley Parents Network > Advice > Teenagers > Gay and Lesbian Teens

Teen cousin just came out, parents in shock

Jan 2007

My cousin (male, age 19 if it matters) just came out and his parents, who I have no doubt will be wonderful once they 'adjust.' Right now they are in the initial stages of shock and struggling to wrap their brains around it. They have asked if for good books for parents, and they have already been told about P-flag. They're both very bright and somewhat psychologically savvy, but in this area, whatever the best books for parents are, is probably the way to go. Thanks in advance. anon.

My daughter, now 17 came out about 2 years ago. With all the stuff kids face now the least of my concerns is her sexual orientation, probably because we live in Berkeley, have many gay friends and neighbors and it's not an issue. I think the biggest fear for parents of gay/lesbian children is how others will accept them, and if they live in a community where it is an issue they need more information than a book will give them.

They will probably be surprised by how many parents of gay children are around them. Please encourage them to join Pflag to meet other parents where they live; it will be much more beneficial than any book they would read. anon mom

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