Lesbians, gay men, and their families. Some therapeutic issues

Psychiatr Clin North Am. 1995 Mar;18(1):123-37.

Abstract

Although a body of scientific data about working with parents and families of gays and lesbians has not yet developed, there is a growing body of literature of an anecdotal and personal nature that has been cited. These works provide therapists with background information and clients needing assistance with guided reading. Therapists working with families and friends of gay men can find the experience rewarding and the therapeutic interventions effective. Much of the work is common sense, listening with the "third" ear for those underlying issues separate from the son's gayness that may affect the person's attitudes, feelings, and responses. Maintaining a professional demeanor while conveying a sense of caring and concern for the individuals is a key issue. As gay people become more visible in society and as the number of individuals coming out increases, there will be a need for more therapists who can assist families with their own coming out process. This article provides some basic guidelines and, as individual therapists gain more experience in this area, it will be important that others report those experiences, sharing them with the rest of the therapist community.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome / psychology
  • Adult
  • Family
  • Family Therapy*
  • Female
  • Gender Identity
  • Homosexuality, Female / psychology*
  • Homosexuality, Male / psychology*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Prejudice
  • Socialization
  • Stereotyping