#79 - For Parents and Families (I): On Personal Healing

This is part I of a 4-episode series dedicated to parents and family members of individuals experiencing gender nonconformity, same-sex attractions (SSA) and/or gender dysphoria (GD).In this episode, Aadam and I read out survey responses sent by members of the online Straight Struggle community addressing parents and siblings, and we cover pertinent themes related to personal healing for parents and family members. What do men and women experiencing SSA or GD hope to get from their parents and family members? How can I, as a parent, sibling or family member of an individual with SSA or GD, navigate the "shock factor"? How can I step into their world and see things from their eyes? What does "unconditional love" mean, and can I still love them unconditionally while disagreeing with their behaviors and lifestyle choices? Why is doing my own work necessary before I help my child, sibling or family member who experiences SSA or GD? These and other relevant questions are explored in this episode.References used in this episode:- Gay Children, Straight Parents: A Plan for Family Healing by Richard Cohen- A Parent's Guide To Preventing Homosexuality by Joseph Nicolosi and Linda Ames NicolosiInternational support systems for parents and family members:- Straight Struggle support group (online, Muslim-based, international) - Strong Support's "Parent's Support Circle" (Muslim-based, UK and international)- Positive Approaches To Healthy Sexuality (PATHS)- Brothers Road (US and international)- North Star Alliance (Mormon-based, international), including Voices of Hope and Journeys of Faith- Parents and Friends of Ex-Gays & Gays (PFOX)- Focus on the Family, Jeff Johnston (Christian-based)- Courage International (Christian-based)Healing seminars and family healing sessions:- Positive Approaches To Healthy Sexuality (PATHS)- Mankind Project (MKP)- Adventure into Manhood (AIM)- Brothers Road (US and international) - Woman Within- COR Experience: Noble Man and Women's Immersion Weekend - Celebration of Being - for men and for women