Skip to main content
Article
The Impact of Family Rejection or Acceptance among LGBT+ Millennials in the Seventh-day Adventist Church
Faculty Publications
  • David Sedlacek, Andrews University
  • Curtis J VanderWaal, Andrews University
  • Lauren Ashley-Mae Lane
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
4-1-2017
Keywords
  • LGBT,
  • Family acceptance,
  • Risk behaviors,
  • Seventh-day Adventist,
  • Millennials
Abstract

Coming to terms with one's sexual identity is a particularly complex process for Christian LGBT+ youth, many of whom are at high risk for negative outcomes such as depression, substance abuse and suicide. Many Christian families are just beginning to actively wrestle with how to view and treat their LGBT+ children. This survey of 310 Seventh-day Adventist adult Millennials explored perceived levels of their families' acceptance or rejection of their sexual orientation or gender identity during their teen years. Other variables included recent levels of self-esteem, social support, depression, substance abuse, high-risk sexual activity, and suicidal thinking or attempts. Findings showed generally low levels of family acceptance and support, as well as elevated rates of depression and at-risk thoughts and behaviors. A high proportion of respondents have retained strong spiritual commitment and moderate church involvement. We include recommendations for social workers who work with Christian families who have LGBT+ children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Journal Title
Social Work and Christianity
First Department
Discipleship and Religious Education
Citation Information
David Sedlacek, Curtis J VanderWaal and Lauren Ashley-Mae Lane. "The Impact of Family Rejection or Acceptance among LGBT+ Millennials in the Seventh-day Adventist Church" Vol. 44 Iss. 1-2 (2017) p. 72 - 95
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/curtis_vanderwaal/64/