How Does Parental Rejection Impact Relational Dynamics in Same-Sex Relationships?
How Does Parental Rejection Impact Relational Dynamics in Same-Sex Relationships?
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Issue Date
2025-12
Authors
Lowe, Charlene
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Abstract
Early parental rejection in childhood influences attachment, romantic satisfaction, and resilience for 2SLGBTQ+ couples. This study aims to bridge the gap in current research and address the needs of minority populations by integrating developmental, emotional, and sociocultural perspectives to understand how family relationships influence adult intimacy. This literature review seeks to answer the guiding question: How do early parental acceptance or rejection experiences affect adult attachment and romantic satisfaction in 2SLGBTQ+ populations? This study employed thematic analysis to code the qualitative data, which supported the development of a conceptual framework and the identification of emergent patterns related to attachment and relationship outcomes. Because thematic coding is a qualitative method, the focus was on interpreting themes rather than on identifying variables, as is characteristic of quantitative research. Research has shown that insecure attachments are associated with reduced relationship satisfaction and well-being, while family acceptance, secure attachment, and resilience promote more positive relational outcomes. Integrating Attachment Theory, Interpersonal Acceptance–Rejection Theory (IPARTheory), Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), and Queer Theory provides a multidimensional understanding of how early family experiences and societal factors interact to shape adult relationships. The research shows that therapeutic approaches focused on the 2SLGBTQ+ community need to be implemented into clinical practice that are gender affirming and all-inclusive. The findings highlight the importance of addressing both developmental and sociocultural contexts in promoting resilience and relationship satisfaction among 2SLGBTQ+ individuals.
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Keywords
attachment theory , minority stress , emotion focused therapy , internalized/homophobia stigma , interpersonal acceptance-rejection theory , outness , romantic resiliency