Parents' response key to health of gay youth

[foxfeet]

Kids with parents who reacted negatively 8 times more likely to try suicide

SAN FRANCISCO - Young gay people whose parents or guardians responded negatively when they revealed their sexual orientation were more likely to attempt suicide, experience severe depression and use drugs than those whose families accepted the news, according to a new study.

The way in which parents or guardians respond to a youth's sexual orientation profoundly influences the child's mental health as an adult, say researchers at San Francisco State University. The findings appear in the January issue of Pediatrics and are being released Monday.

"Parents love their children and want the best for them," said lead researcher Caitlin Ryan, a social worker who directs the university's Family Acceptance Project. "Now that we have measured all these behaviors, we can see that some of them put youth at extremely high risk and others are wellness-promoting."

more at:http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/28420846/

[YOY]

1. It goes further than that in what I've witnessed.

Just my experience from the gays and lesbians I have befriended is that when their families are supportive they tend to have more longer and meaningful relationships. Often this means "less dangerous" lifestyle decisions.

Can someone in the community let me know if I am seeing this wrong or if I'm on target here.

Only stands to reason. The same happens with straight folks.

[yardwork]

5. That makes sense.

As you say, the same thing happens with straight folks. It seems logical that a person denied affirmation by their parents will act out. People who are told that "sex is bad" are more likely to view all sex as being equally bad rather than recognize the difference between healthy and unhealthy relationships.

[Maat]

2. It's always a good thing when a study documents soundly ..

what we already know deep down inside.

Now, I can cite the study as evidence.

[unpossibles]

3. This is not surprising in the least

But as stated, it is good to see "evidence"

[yardwork]

4. This should be posted in GD and GD-P where a lot of people need to see it.

[foxfeet]

6. Done!

:hi:

[bluedawg12]

7. Good info. - glad you posted this.

Reinforces the golden rule, doesn't it? Do unto others....

Some still don't get it, bigotry is damaging to kids and adults.