LAWS BEYOND STIGMA: HOW LGBTQ+ PAKISTANI TEENS AND PARENTS FORGE EMPATHETIC AND NURTURING RELATIONSHIPS
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Abstract
Having close, affectionate relationships with their parents is incredibly beneficial for LGBTQ+ teens. In Pakistan, there has been a paucity of research on the LGBTQ+ community. Only a few studies have attempted to thoroughly comprehend the parent-teen relationship and the contributions of adolescents; instead, the majority of research has focused on how to increase parental acceptance. In order to resolve the gap in the literature, we held discussions with 27 teen Muslims who identify as both LGBTQ+ and their parents to gain insight into how these teens have impacted the development of accommodating relationships, and what blocks those relationships. Results from our study showed that LGBTQ+ teens improved their family dynamics by having sincere, significant talks with their parents, fostering family connections, communicating in a casual manner, discussing their sexual orientation (in a few instances), and being patient and understanding. Participants also emphasized difficulties in communication and connection, as well as the avoidance of LGBTQ+ and religious topics by parents and adolescents. While some of these difficulties may be common to all parents and their adolescents, others are specific to LGBTQ+ Muslim youth whose parents are also actively involved. Despite the potential conflict between their identities, this study concluded that LGBTQ+ teens in Pakistan are capable of maintaining healthy relationships with their parents.
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