Helping a parent navigate their child’s gender identity.
Helping a parent navigate their child’s gender identity.
After her teen child (Tonia) comes out, a mother speaks to her daughter’s doctor about her fears and anxieties.
How are you feeling about what Tonia has shared with you?
It’s so hard to wrap my mind around this. I feel… she… is still just figuring herself out. And I’m not sure what to do.
It seems like you’re processing a lot right now about her sharing this with you, but it also seems like you’re trying hard to be supportive.
Yes, I’m trying so hard. But I worry about the life she’ll have if she continues on this path. Will she be okay? Will she be safe?
As a parent, one of the biggest worries that you can have is if your child is safe. This sometimes comes up for parents when their child comes out as transgender and they worry about what that means for their future.
How do I help? What should I be doing?
The best way to keep her safe and help is by offering your support. Continue affirming her identity and make sure that she’s able to get the care that she needs.
That makes sense. I’ve been practicing calling her my daughter and have been having conversations with other family members to make sure they’re using the right name.
That’ll go a long way. Family support and appropriate care is crucial to her wellbeing.
Thank you.
Things to consider.
It can be common for parents of transgender and gender nonconforming children or teens to feel uncertain about the best course of action, especially when they have limited knowledge about TGNC experiences.
Emphasizing the importance of support toward their child can help guide parents away from focusing on potential negatives of disclosure and reorienting them toward the benefits of offering support and affirmation to their children.
How would you discuss gender affirmation and support with parents of transgender and gender nonconforming teens?
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