The experiences of gender and sexually diverse parents using support and services for their young children: An integrative review

Abstract

Aim

To address: What are the experiences of 2SLGBTQQIA+ parents using parenting supports and services to meet their children's early childhood development needs (<5 years of age)?

Design

Whittemore and Knafl's (2005) integrative review methodology.

Methods

Electronic databases were searched from 2000 to October 14, 2022 for empirical studies or reviews addressing the research question. The title and abstract of 12,158 articles were screened for inclusion in the review by two independent researchers; 175 of these articles underwent full-text review. Studies selected were critically appraised using a Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal tool. Relevant key findings were extracted from each study and entered into N-VIVO-12. Thematic content analysis was employed and PRISMA guidelines were adhered to.

Results

A total of 18 articles (15 qualitative and three multi-method studies) met the inclusion criteria and were selected for the review. Seven themes were revealed from analysis of the studies: (1) 2SLGBTQQIA+ Status kept a secret; (2) Forced to come out; (3) Heteronormative messaging; (4) Feeling excluded; (5) Stigmatised; (6) Parents act as educators; and (7) Positive experiences.

Conclusion

This integrative review provides nurses with insight into the experiences of 2SLGBTQQIA+ parents using health care services for their young child.

Implications for the Profession

This article highlights what changes nurses need to make to their practice to ensure appropriate, inclusive care for clients of diverse sexual and gender identities and their families.

Impact

Health care providers, especially nurses, have an opportunity to improve the experiences of these families and positively impact their health and well-being. Additionally, there is a need for research with the 2SLGBTQQIA+ parent community and the use of rigorous methodological techniques, including clearly linking participants' gender and sexual identities with study findings, to improve our understanding of 2SLGBTQQIA+ parent experiences.

Patient or Public Contribution

Although there was no direct patient contribution to the work since it was an integrative review of the literature, indirectly patient contributions are incorporated from the original research results of studies incorporated into this review.