Advancing Theory and Research on SOGI/LGBTQIA+ Socialization in Families

Sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI)/LGBTQIA+ socialization represents a critical yet underdeveloped area of family and developmental research. This introduction to the special issue, Advancing Theory and Research on LGBTQIA+ Socialization in Families, situates SOGI/LGBTQIA+ socialization as a key process within families through which individuals navigate hetero- and cisnormative social contexts, cultivate LGBTQIA+ identity affirmation, and promote resilience and well-being. Across 10 articles, we highlight emerging conceptual, methodological, and empirical advances among diverse families, developmental periods, and social locations. Contributions extend existing socialization frameworks, particularly those derived from racial/ethnic socialization theory, while demonstrating the need for LGBTQIA+-specific and intersectional conceptualizations to account for unique experiences of individuals and families with minoritized sexual and gender identities. Across studies, socialization is shown to occur within parent-child relationships but also through chosen family, peers, community, and media. Findings emphasize the importance of cultural transmission, preparation for bias, identity affirmation, community connection, and belonging as central dimensions of LGBTQIA+ socialization. We conclude by identifying priorities for future research, including theory refinement, measurement development, longitudinal and experimental designs, and greater methodological, geographic, and contextual diversity to advance understanding of how socialization fosters healthy development, resilience, and thriving across the life course.