Is my daughter gay or confused

If your child comes to you with questions or concerns about their gender identity or sexual orientation, the most important thing is to listen and let them know that you love them and support them no matter what. It can start: with homosexual fantasies or dreams; when a person realizes she is attracted to someone of the same gender; with a feeling that she is different from her friends and classmates; or with a sexual experience.

Kids who are very distressed about their gender identity may also be experiencing a mental health issue called gender dysphoria. And if your child wants to use a different name or pronouns, take them seriously and do as they ask. The process of declaring a homosexual identity is often called ‘coming out’.

Is it trendy to be transgender? Finding out your child is gay can lead to a flood of emotions. The important part is to listen, let them know that you take their feelings seriously and follow their lead. Yet, the first five minutes of your response are critical to your child. This gives them a lot more flexibility to express their gender and sexual orientation in ways that feel right to them.

Your child has just come out to you as gay, lesbian, bisexual, or transgender. Please upgrade to Microsoft Edge , Google Chrome , or Firefox. These are signs of mental health challenges that may or may not be related to gender or sexual identity. How parents can understand gender confusion in kids and support their child's gender identity.

Writer: Juliann Garey. For more on the terminology that people use to describe sexual orientation and gender identity, see the helpful glossary from the Human Rights Campaign. But sorting out these feelings and thoughts can be confusing — for kids and their families.

How will I know if my teen is gay? Kids who are questioning their gender identity or sexual orientation do best when they have the support of their families. Helping young people navigate gender identity and sexual orientation. What should you do?. Mental health experts stress the importance of giving kids who are questioning unconditional support at home.

Common Concerns from Parents: “My daughter thinks she. And questioning kids do best when they have the support of their families. Start by being really open to what they have to say; just hear them out without passing judgment. Being comfortable enough to reveal these feelings to their friends or parents or even themselves can be a long and difficult process.

Gay: Most often refers to men who are attracted to men, though some women and nonbinary people also use this term. Check in once a month. Keep an eye out for big changes in mood or behavior. But it helps to know that they have the support of a parent or caregiver. A therapist of your own or a support organization like PFLAG can help.

Bisexual: Someone who experiences attraction to more than one gender. Learn what to do. If these symptoms last more than a few weeks and especially if they seem to be getting worse, it may be time to get your child help from a therapist. Teenagers need the space to figure things out on their own.

A child who seems to have a high level of distress around gender issues might be experiencing something called gender dysphoria. Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Lesbian: A woman who is romantically or physically attracted to other women. Clinical Expert: Emma C Woodward, PhD.

Young people who are dealing with these kinds of questions do best when their families support them. It also helps to let your child know that your family accepts all gender identities and sexual orientations.