In reality, children may not identify as the gender that matches the sex they were assigned at birth.
You might feel overwhelmed, angry, or disappointed.
These are all normal emotions when we hear news that we did not expect.
Ghislain & Marie David de Lossy / Getty Images
However, it’s important to not respond in areactionaryway, as that can be hurtful your child.
“Wow, that’s really big news!”
or something similar is an appropriate initial response.
You want to acknowledge the situation, and that you heard what your child said.
These are harmful actions that can increase a trans youth’s already high risk of suicide andsuicidal ideations.
Your support and acceptance of your child is their lifeline.
At this point, you may want to ask your child about their needs for transition.
Do they want to visit a doctor to discuss medical intervention?
Would they like to speak with a therapist so that they can iron out their feelings further?
Find out what your child needs, and be committed to providing it for them.
Ask your child whatpronounsthey are going by now, and use those.
Use them yourself, and tell others to kindly do the same.
The act of using a person’s pronouns is one of simple respect.
If your name is Sally, you wouldn’t just let someone call you Jack.
You’d think that was rude, and possibly even mean.
The same is true for pronoun usage.
Advocate As Needed
LGBTQIA+youth face more bullying, discrimination, and victimization than theircisgender heterosexualcounterparts.
Additionally, ask your child about what areas they most need your advocacy for.
Let Them Lead
As adults, we generally think pretty linearly.
We operate in a manner from start to finish.
Kids are different, and a gender journey may be different as well.
Don’t expect a linear experience of transition.
Instead, allow your child to lead.
By letting your child need, you’ll be telling them that you trust them and understand their autonomy.
This is the perfect message to send your child.
Confide in people you trust about your child coming out.
Know that many other parents have gone through this experience, and you are not alone.
When Elliot Page transitioned,The Umbrella Academywove his transition into the plot.
Apa psycnet[Internet].
[cited 2022 Jul 13].
2022 Mar;37(56):NP2696718.
Pendharkar E.Number of trans youth is twice as high as previous estimates, study finds.
Bullying and tgnc youth.
