57.4 FAMILY DYNAMICS AND LIFE AFTER TRANSITION IN TRANSITIONAL-AGED YOUTH

Abstract

Frequently, a child’s concerns about gender or thoughts about gender identity create or exacerbate problems in families. Attendees will better understand how to intervene to help ameliorate complex family dynamics and communication patterns when working with gender-diverse youth. Addressing family dynamics in the context of COVID-19 stressors and telepsychiatry will be addressed. Parents may disagree about how to engage and support their children. They may engage in conflict with the child about gender identity and choice, or they may be confused about their child and their thoughts and wishes. Parents may also be unsure of how to help their child with peers, school personnel, or others. This also may lead to conflict and frustration with resulting lack of acceptance and mutual alienation. The child’s age and developmental level also must be included in a therapeutic understanding of the situation. Finally, a family’s circumstances and stresses often further complicate matters. This presentation will review family therapy approaches to these situations. Family engagement, comfort with the problem, and a vision that the situation can work out will be discussed. Focus on the values of the family and their connections with each other can lead to a sense of renewed attachment and mutual support. Methods of patiently dealing with conflict, ensuring safety, and building mutual support will be emphasized. Engaging other families in similar situations can be helpful, and assisting the family in utilizing knowledgeable resources will be discussed. Promoting a hopeful and optimistic path to the future through uncertainty is at the heart of this treatment. Working with the whole family system is crucial when providing treatment services to gender-diverse youth.