When Coming Out Tests Family Ties

Most parents have some vision or dream of how their children’s lives will turn out. However, kids find their own way in life. It’s understandable that the topic of coming out can be difficult for both children and parents alike.

In today’s Deep Dive podcast, “When Coming Out Tests Family Ties,” I’m discussing how to navigate new realities when your child comes out.

The sooner, the better.

Callers of all ages have asked me, “When should I come out to my parents?” The sooner a child can speak honestly about their sexuality with their parents, the quicker the family can move forward with a more honest and loving relationship.

While speaking with 52-year-old Pat, she asked me if it was finally time to tell her elderly father that she was gay and in a loving relationship. My answer? Yes! Check out this episode for the plan we outlined.

Listen and proceed with love.

When your child confides in you that he or she is gay, the only thing you need to do is listen. You don’t need to ask questions. You don’t need to give advice. You certainly shouldn’t be offering any warnings.

Gay children just want to know that their parents still love them. If you were proud of them before, you can continue to be proud.

Not everything has changed. Discover how to be the parent your child needs

↓

📚 Reconciling with a lack of early parental love

If you've felt an absence of love and acceptance in childhood, I invite you to read Bad Childhood, Good Life. In this New York Times Bestseller, I will show you how to pull yourself out of victimhood and thrive with the mindset that you have the power to create the life you want, despite your upbringing. 

🤔 The Question That Changed Our Family's Life

“Between now and dead, is this the life you want to live?” Read why the answer to this question was simple for Jacob and his wife in last Wednesday’s Email of the Day.

📖 Words Matter

Why do I urge caution with the verbiage you use? Last Monday’s blog discerns how misused powerful words and pop-psych rhetoric prevent you from rationally dealing with a dilemma.

Give Yourself the Gift of New Knees this Year!

Start Off Your Year on the Right Foot

"Now, go DO the right thing!"