Looking for some information please.

[ok_cpu]

I used to post fairly regularly but have been away for a while. I know DU is the right place to get me started.

Can anyone recommend an organization for parents of gay teens? I've found my son is at least curious and want to be the best parent possible while he is discovering who he is. Just to clarify, I'm looking for help supporting him, not for me. Support geared toward fathers-sons is ideal.

There's a pflag chapter in our area. Any experience with them specifically?

Thanks in advance and PM is fine.
ok_cpu.

[Ken Burch]

1. Pflag would be a good start.

Having those parents watch some of the videos from the "It Gets Better" project would also help.

And some of the Gay/Straight Alliance clubs at various high schools probably have a fair amount of parental involvement.

[racaulk]

2. Another vote for PFLAG here.

I don't have any specific experience with them, but I know that it can be helpful to draw from the experiences and advice of those that have walked in your shoes. Definitely check out a chapter close to you and get involved. I'm sure you will find that not only will you benefit from others in that group, but you will also be of benefit to others.

Also, I highly recommend Kevin Jennings' book "Always My Child" (Amazon link here). I gave a copy to my dad a few years back, and though it largely fell on deaf ears with him, I still think it's a quality book. You may find it helpful.

I don't really have any other suggestions, but best of luck to you and your son. And thank you for striving to be a good father -- we should all be as lucky as your son is.

:hi:

[evilbeth]

3. PFLAG member here

PFLAG is a wonderful organization. I am on the leadership committee of our local chapter. I highly advise you to call them and/or attend a meeting. You will find many people you and/or your son can talk to in an accepting and safe environment.

Most PFLAG groups also have ties to or at least further information regarding other groups in their areas that might be of interest. Feel free to drop me a line if you have any questions or want to discuss anything.

I lurk here (this is either my first actual post or one of the first) but this post motivated me to come out of hiding to help.

[ok_cpu]

4. I appreciate the replies.

PFLAG is the next stop.

Thanks again.

:hi:

[beyurslf]

5. Pflag is a good way to go. I know my mom went to them when I told her.

[dickthegrouch]

6. Thanks for wanting to be a GREAT Dad

My only counsel is not to rush him. The only real proof of the pudding is in the eating (if you'll pardon the use of such an explicit aphorism). I had been attracted to people of the same sex as me since the age of about 6. I also heard all the stuff about it being a phase later on, and sort of hoped it was for a while. I couldn't say for certain that I was (am) gay until after I had experienced both the feeling of being fraudulent dating a girl, and utterly euphoric dating a guy.

Let your son take it at his own pace. Just continue to let him know you love him.

I think you are a fantastic Dad. :yourock: