English 
Thai 
Abstract
Global studies have shown that parents/caregivers of LGBTQI+ children often struggle to understand their child’s sexual orientation and gender identity, and this lack of understanding can lead to a reduced quality of life for the children. However, little is known about the experiences of parents/caregivers of LGBTQI+ children in Thailand. This qualitative study aimed to explore how Thai parents/caregivers of LGBTQI+ children respond to and cope with the stress associated with their child’s coming out. In-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with 12 parents/caregivers (aged 48–70) of 11 LGBTQI+ children in Thailand. Interview transcripts were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis, and findings were discussed within the framework of the family stress theory.
Most participants initially experienced difficulty accepting their child’s sexual or gender identity and expressed concerns about their child’s future. However, over time, many came to accept or adjust to their child’s disclosure. One of the most common coping strategies observed was reframing, which appeared to help participants reinterpret the meaning of having an LGBTQI+ child or focus on the absence of other stressors. Internal family resources—such as cohesion and communication skills—played a key role in fostering positive parental/caregiver responses. Strong family relationships and access to relevant information appeared to enhance family resilience. The study recommends social interventions that normalize acceptance of sexual and gender diversity, reduce discrimination, and strengthen family resources through both universal and context-specific approaches to better support families with LGBTQI+ children.
Keywords Parents, Caregivers, Family stress, Gender identity, LGBTQI+, Thailand
Researcher: Sakol Sopithachasak, Ronnaphum Samakkekharom
Methodologies: Qualitative Research
Journal: Journal of Contemporary Social Sciences
Year: 2023
For more information please click: http://chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://jcsh.rsu.ac.th/files/issues/V10N1/216_20230606115959.pdf
