1. Do you know any families that are struggling with accepting that their child is Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, or Transgender? If so, tell us about what is going on with that family?
2. What do you think about the research that says LGBT youth are more likely to have a mental health problem if their families don’t accept them?
3. Do you think there are any religious implications to not accepting a child who is LGBT?
4. What do you think of Dr. Ryan’s approach – to assume families want the best for their children and meeting them where they are? Do you see any down side to this?
5. Dr. Ryan says that the average age of coming out as gay is now 13 years old, whereas a decade or so ago it was in the 20’s. What do you think of the implications of this for families?
6. What is the importance of having “evidence-based research” on the effect of family acceptance of LGBT children? Does it make anything possible that isn’t possible otherwise?
7. What do you think about Karen Fokken’s description of her gay son and how he came out to the family? Do you think this would be done differently in today’s world?

For resources see: Resources Mentioned in the Show

Disclaimer:

These questions are to provide family and peer discussion and education. The information is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose or treat any medical or psychological condition. If you think someone is too fragile to be part of the discussion, please have them consult their mental health care provider for individual advice regarding the situation.