Do Say Gay: Inclusive Sexuality Discussions for Out, Closeted, Questioning, and Straight Youth

Abstract

Introduction: Debates questioning the soundness of inclusive elementary school discussions that acknowledge sexual and gender diverse people are harmful to gay, bisexual, or queer (GBQ) males. With parents as sexual socialization agents, examining sex communication at home is critical for promoting inclusive health information for all youth.

Method: We examined how GBQ youth (n = 30), aged 15-20 years, conceptualized inclusive sex communication with parents and the value of open sexuality discussions.

Results: Most of the sample identified as gay (76.7%) and diverse (13.3% Asian, 13.3% Black/African American, 33.3% Latino). Participants discussed sexual health with their parents and perceived its significance for GBQ, questioning, and heterosexual children.

Discussion: Findings can inform interventions that promote inclusive sex communication between parents and children to promote acceptance of sexual and gender diversity and sexual health for all youth.

Keywords: HIV/STI prevention; LGBTQ health; Parent–child sex communication; gay, bisexual, and queer youth; parenting.