Experiences of second-generation queer youth: LGBTQ+ community belongingness, queer parent family socialization, and coping

LGBTQ+ youth with LGBTQ+ parents are known as “second-generation queer youth.” These individuals have unique experiences with LGBTQ+ community belongingness, queer-parent family socialization, and coping previously unexplored in psychological research. Queer-parent family socialization involves LGBTQ+ parents engaging in practices that instill family identity pride within their child, prepare them for potential bias, and proactively create a queer-friendly environment, In this study, we quantitatively examined the perspectives of second-generation queer youth (N = 53) in the United States on LGBTQ+ community belongingness, queer-parent family socialization, and coping, and the dynamics between subscales of these constructs. We found that youth who reported higher levels of coping also reported greater belongingness within the LGBTQ+ community and higher instances of socialization. By relying on family and community support, and practicing coping strategies, these youth can combat the harmful effects of discrimination. This indicates that these support systems may offer opportunities for strength and resilience.