Understanding Communication and Support Processes Within Families of Marginalized Groups in Türkiye

Abstract

This study aims to identify the communication strategies employed by mothers with LGBTQ+ children in Türkiye upon learning about their children's sexual orientation and to evaluate the intrafamily communication process. Through in-depth interviews with 28 mothers of LGBTQ+ children, the study identified the communication strategies used and assessed the intrafamily communication process. Mothers commonly exhibited emotional reactions such as non-acceptance, disappointment, incomprehension, and deep sorrow upon learning about their children's orientation, often blaming themselves. LGBTQ+ mothers describe their children as being open to communication. Participants highlight the significance of LGBTQ+ organizations like LISTAG, emphasizing the opportunities for awareness and organization provided by such groups. This study, which is the first study to address the coming out processes of children of LGBTQ+ families in Türkiye, contributes to the literature on LGBTQ+ family communication in the Global South.