Coming out

Sexuality is diverse. There are many variations, ranging from hetero- to homo-, bi- or pansexual to asexual. Overall, many people also locate themselves under the term queer. Some people know from the beginning that they are heterosexual, lesbian, gay or bisexual, others go through a longer, often difficult process during puberty or even later until they live their sexual orientation. Aspects of gender identity are also diverse. Here one speaks of trans* and inter* gender identity, in short trans* and inter*, as well as non-binary or also queer.

Puberty also involves finding out which gender you are attracted to. People with other orientations or gender identities often first go through a phase of inner coming out. During this time, they strongly come to terms with their sexual identity. This often takes place between the ages of 14 and 17. If a young person does not feel heterosexual, the question then arises as to whether or not he or she wants to go public with it. This is called coming out. More and more young people are being quite open about their sexual orientation. However, there are also people who come out only in certain areas of life or even not at all for fear of the reactions of their own family, friends and at school, as well as for fear of discrimination.

Even though you may have already suspected that your child is (also) attracted to people of the same sex or feels a different gender identity, coming out may cause you to worry or worry. Despite our open society, exclusion and discrimination still occur. It is quite normal for parents to want to protect their child from this. And it is also understandable if parents may need some time to understand and accept their child's coming out. In this case, only one thing is important: that you do not react negatively towards your child or try to question your child's sexual orientation or gender identity. Your child should be happy in life, completely independent of his or her sexual orientation or gender identity. With your understanding and loving guidance, you can do much to give your child the support he or she needs to achieve this.

It is certainly not an easy path that your child has taken to come out. Especially at the beginning, young people find it difficult to classify their feelings. This can lead to additional insecurities, fears and psychological stress during puberty. If your child has come out, he or she may encounter prejudice or rejection in the social environment. Classifying these experiences and developing strategies for dealing with them is a great challenge. If your child feels your love and their all-embracing acceptance, you give them additional security. A healthy sense of self-confidence will help them get through these situations positively as well.