Theses and Dissertations
ORCID
https://orcid.org/0009-0006-1486-9577
Advisor
Elmore-Staton, Lori D.
Committee Member
Hardman, Alisha M.
Committee Member
Peterson, Donna J.
Committee Member
Kimberly, Claire
Date of Degree
5-16-2025
Original embargo terms
Immediate Worldwide Access
Document Type
Graduate Thesis - Open Access
Major
Human Development and Family Science
Degree Name
Master of Science (M.S.)
College
College of Agriculture and Life Sciences
Department
School of Human Sciences
Abstract
Research suggests parent-child communication about sexual health can promote positive sexual health outcomes (e.g., Estrada-Martinez et al., 2020; Jayne et al., 2021); however, parent-child sexual health conversations are often infrequent and heteronormative (Estes, 2017). Few studies explore sexual health communication between LGBQ youth and their parents. This study explores previous experiences with parent-child sexual health communication between seven LGBQ young adults, aged 18 to 26, and four of their heterosexual mothers, to better understand parent-child sexual health communication and differences between parental-child reflections. Findings suggest LGBQ young adults and parents recall similar experiences, however, perceived discomfort and parental competency differently. Conversations about sexual health were largely infrequent and lacked LGBQ-inclusive sexual health information, and LGBQ young adults reported feeling like educators for their parents. Results contribute data collected from matched parent-child dyads and highlight the need for additional research and development of LGBQ-inclusive sexual health resources for youth and families.
Recommended Citation
Solace, Haley Elizabeth, "An exploratory mixed-methods investigation of previous sexual health communication between lesbian, gay, bisexual, or queer young adults and their parents" (2025). Theses and Dissertations. 6583.
https://scholarsjunction.msstate.edu/td/6583
