Remote LGB Research Study

Researchers at the University of Miami are conducting a study to examine and evaluate a preventive family-based program aimed at supporting adolescents and their families during the coming out process.

Study Background

This study is focused on understanding how a program called Familias con Orgullo can help Hispanic sexual minority youth (HSMY) and their families. The program is designed to strengthen family relationships and provide support for young people as they navigate their sexual identity. The study will compare the program to trypical community resources to see if it helps reduce drug use and symptoms of depression in youth over 30 months. By improving family support, acceptance, and communication, the program aims to create a more positive and supportive environment for these young people.

The study will also explore how the program works. It will look at whether improvements in family support, parent acceptance, and reduced stress levels help explain the positive changes in youth. Additionally, researchers will investigate whether factors like gender or the family's starting level of support and acceptance make a difference in how effective the program is. The goal is to better understand what makes family-based programs successful and how they can best support young people and their families during challenging times.

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Additional Information

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  • Why is this study being done?

    This study is being done to evaluate how the Familias con Orgullo program can improve family relationships, reduce stress, and support Hispanic sexual minority youth in overcoming challenges like drug use and depression, while also exploring what factors make such interventions most effective.

  • Is this study for my family?

    You/your child may qualify for the study if the following criteria are met:

    Inclusion Criteria:

    • Identify as gay, lesbian, or bisexual OR engage in same-sex sexual behavior
    • Ages 13-19
    • Individuals with a Hispanic parent
    • Have come out to at least one parent who identifies as Hispanic
    • Live with a parent who is willing to participate in the study

  • What will happen if my family participates in the study?

    1. Complete Surveys:

    • You and your child/parent will complete surveys four times: at the start, 6 months, 18 months, and 30 months later.
    • If your family is selected to participate in the program, surveys will be completed at the start, after the program, 15 months later, and 27 months later.
    • Each survey takes about 45 minutes and will ask about your family, your experiences, and you/your child's sexual orientation and related experiences.

    2. Participate in Program Sessions (if selected):

    • Families chosen for the program will join family sessions lasting about one hour each. These focus on improving communication and support within the family.
    • Adolescents will also join group sessions (about 2 hours each) with up to 15 other teens to discuss topics like family relationships and the coming out process.
    • Parents will also participate in group sessions (about 1 to 1.5 hours each) with other caregivers. These sessions focus on understanding the coming out process, improving communication, and learning how to support your child. They are held weekly for about three months and take place online in either English or Spanish, depending on your preference.
    • The program runs for about three months and is conducted online through secure video calls.

    3. Optional Participation:

    • You do not have to answer any questions that make you uncomfortable, and nothing bad will happen if you choose not to.
    • You can stop participating in the study at any time for any reason.

    This process is designed to help families improve relationships, build understanding, and provide support during important life transitions.

  • Will my family be paid for being in this research study?

    Yes, adolescents will receive $300, and parents will receive $580 for their participation in the study. Additionally, you will receive $50 for each referral you provide who enrolls in the study.

  • Will it cost my family anything to participate in this study?

    There is no cost for your family to participate in our research study.

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