It is important for parents and families to support their children after they have gone off to college. UCSB aims to support students’ academic and personal well-being while they are on campus, and the RCSGD views supporting students as a partnership with families.
As students begin to explore more their identity with specific attention to gender and sexuality, they may undergo transition periods needing additional support or space. As parents and families attempt to be supportive they may need additional resources. The RCSGD is a center that can support parents and families as well as provide resources. There are a variety of resources for parents and family members who have children that identify as members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning, or intersex (LGBTQI) community.
Some ways to support your student can be to:
- Gain an understanding of sexual and gender identity. Some information can be learned on our FAQ page:
http://wgse.sa.ucsb.edu/SGD/Resources/FAQ.aspx
- Become aware of major issues LGBTQI students might face on a campus: link.
- Learn about the resources UCSB has to offer here and refer you student to utilize them.
- Provide them with someone to listen to and let them know about counseling services as needed. http://www.counseling.ucsb.edu/
- If you feel uncomfortable discussing or supporting your student during this time be open with them, but reassure them you are committed to furthering your understanding and what to be supportive during this time.
If you notice that your student may be distressed contact the Director of LGBT Resources or follow the distressed student protocol
http://www.sa.ucsb.edu/distressedstudentsguide/
Gender Spectrum - Gender Spectrum provides education, training and support to help createa gender sensitive and inclusive environment for all children and teens.
PFLAG - Promotes the health and well-being of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender persons, their families and friends.
Families Matter -
Provides confidential peer support to people with a gay or transgender family member.