Supportive parents may prevent suicidal thoughts in LGBT teens

By Staff Writer

A new report published in the November issue of the Journal of Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Nursing suggests that lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) children can significantly benefit from parental acceptance and support, Live Science reports.

The research shows that parents who defend their children from anti-LGBT harassment are supporting their teen's identity. Children who feel protected by their parents may have a lower incidence of depression, substance abuse or suicide.

For the study, researchers collected data from 245 LGBT teens, who had come out to their parent or caregiver. Scientists asked the children how often their parents exhibited positive and accepting behavior toward them.

The results showed that teens whose parents were very understanding of their child's identity were less likely to have suicidal thoughts.

According to the National Education Policy Center, more than 85 percent of LGBT students report being harassed because of their sexual or gender identity. More than 20 percent report being physically attacked.