Parental Nativity and Familial Acceptance of Sexual and Gender Minority Latinx Youth

Accepting and sharing about oneself as a sexual and gender minority (SGM) individual is complex. This is even more complex for individuals who identify as both SGM and Latino because they possess more than one minoritized identity. As a result, SGM Latino youth are more susceptible to higher levels of stress, which if not effectively managed, can lead to homelessness, anxiety and depression, and substance abuse. Latino family members find it difficult to learn how to positively interact with their SGM family member (e.g., in the early phases of coming out). In this quantitative survey study, researchers examined survey data collected from 1,877 Latino youth concerning home experiences, health, identity, and parental nativity. Data were drawn from the LGBTQ National Teen Survey, an online, anonymous comprehensive survey designed to advance understanding of the experiences of SGM adolescents (13-17 years of age). The survey, developed and distributed by the Human Rights Campaign, examined perceptions of familial acceptance regarding SGM identity during youth. Significant relationships were found between family acceptance, sexual orientation, and parental nativity (birthplace of parents in- or outside of the United States). The findings provide for a rich discussion about the implications for helping Latino SGM youth and educating Latino family members.