Relationships come in many beauty forms and labels. Whether you identify as monogamous or consensually non-monogamous, engage in open relationships, or are asexual or aromantic, every identity is valid and deserves respect. One study shows that 1 out of 9 people have engaged in polyamory with high levels among LGBTQ+ communities. A study by the Trevor Project reported that 10% of LGBTQ+ youth identified as asexual.
Identities that are not “traditional” monogamy often face intense stigma and discrimination, leading to higher rates of depression and anxiety compared to monogamous individuals. Another study showed that many non-monogamous individuals experienced both judgment and the need to educate their providers, ultimately leading to barriers in accessing healthcare services. In addition to these challenges, LGBTQ+ communities also face stereotypes about relationship dynamics. A study showed that gay dating apps can negatively impact LGBTQ+ men’s perceptions of their physique, femininity, and appearance. These stereotypes add pressure and misunderstandings, complicating relationships and mental health.
It’s crucial to shed light on these stigmas to break “modern relationship norms.” Join us for a discussion with experts to gain insights and strategies for supporting diverse relationship structures and identities fostering more inclusive communities.
Panelists include:
- Aubri Lancaster, BA², CSE (Bri, she) – AASECT Certified Sexuality Educator
- Janet Hardy, (she/her, he/him, they/them) – Author – Speaker – Teacher – Author of “The Ethical Slut”
- Nathan Serrato, PCC (he/him) – Queer Love Coach (Trauma-Informed) – Founder of Queer Conscious LLC
- John Sovec, LMFT (he/him) – OutTalk Moderator & Host, Therapist – Coach – Speaker – Author of “Out: A Parent’s Guide to Supporting Your LGBTQIA+ Kid Through Coming Out and Beyond
Learning Objectives:
- Understand the Diversity of Modern Queer Relationships: Participants will explore various relationship identities and structures within LGBTQ+ communities, such as monogamy, consensual non-monogamy, polyamory, asexuality, and aromanticism, and learn how each identity is valid and deserving of respect.
- Recognize and Challenge Stigmas and Stereotypes: Attendees will identify the common stigmas, stereotypes, and discriminatory attitudes that non-traditional relationships face, including the mental health impacts, and learn strategies to challenge and break these stigmas.
- Enhance Healthcare Practices: Participants will gain insights into how healthcare providers can better support diverse relationship structures by avoiding assumptions, providing inclusive care, and being aware of the unique challenges faced by non-monogamous, asexual, and other LGBTQ+ individuals.
- Promote Inclusive Communities: The session will provide strategies for fostering more inclusive communities that affirm and support diverse relationship identities and structures, emphasizing the importance of creating safe and supportive environments for all individuals.
- Develop Practical Communication Skills: Attendees will learn how to effectively communicate and engage with individuals in non-traditional relationships, understanding the importance of affirming language and the need for providers to educate themselves on the varied dynamics within LGBTQ+ relationships.
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