As a loving parent, you want nothing more than for your teenager to be happy. Learning that your child identifies as LGBTQ+ can be challenging, as you may worry about how the world will treat them. It's important to put your concerns aside and show your child the love and support they need during this time. Discover how you can learn to accept your teen's identity and show your support for them with the help of streaming TV content and other cultural tools.

How to Accept & Support Your LGBTQ+ Teen

1. Reaffirm Your Unconditional Love for Them

Many parents worry that kids will change when they come out. It's essential to remember your teen is the same person—and your love for them won't alter. Make sure to verbalize this and reiterate your unconditional love for them. 

You want your child to feel accepted, and acceptance begins at home. Simply saying things like "I love you" and "I accept you" can make a big difference. Also, thank them for sharing with you, keeping in mind how nerve-wracking it may have been to open up.

2. Be Open to Discussion

Showing support for your child goes beyond an initial expression of acceptance. Validate their identity continually—for example, if another family member uses their incorrect pronouns or names, stand up for your child and correct them. Tell your child you're there to talk to, and be prepared to listen if they come to you with fears or problems. 

Finally, recognize that discussion is a two-way street. If you have questions, ask them. It's okay to be upfront about what you don't know and what you're curious about. You can simply tell your child, "I don't know a lot about this, but I am going to learn."

3. Find Educational Resources

If you tell your teen you're going to learn about relevant LGBTQ+ topics, follow through. There are many resources you can consult, from the internet to streaming TV programs and books, and these fall under both fiction and nonfiction categories. 

You can also join support groups for parents of teens who have come out, either in-person or online. You may also want to look into support groups for your teen if you sense that they're facing difficulties and need someone to talk to.

For more resources to help you as the parent of a black LGBTQ+ teenager, check out iElevate App. Based in Atlanta, GA, this faith-based TV app creates content for the black and LGBTQ+ communities, providing enrichment and entertainment. The streaming TV network celebrates black excellence, featuring content from people of color that touches on everything from spirituality to social justice. Visit their website to view their catalog or call (404) 789-7734 to learn more.