Make up

[Cheersdad]

My 14year old son came out last year, we’re fine with it now he’s started painting his nails and got some eyeliner. I’m happy for him to express himself but can’t help worrying about him being bullied on attacked when he’s out. We talk and he seems happy plenty of friends doing well at school. It just scares me because I know what people can be like. Any advice would be greatly appreciated 

[geoff]

Hello Cheersdad, thanks for posting this comment.

If your son is strong enough to paint his nails as well as putting on some eye-liner, then he is determined to be proud of what he does, if this is the situation, then he has thought about doing this and what type of reaction he might get, then he will be able to cope with any back-lash he might get.

If he needs to talk with someone then he can contact Qlife 1800 184 527 or Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800 for support.

It's important you do accept this as you've said.

Geoff.

Life Member.

[Cheersdad]

Thanks mate, he is a strong lad and knows what he’s doing. I’m just being a scared dad nothing scares me more then either of my kids getting hurt. We’ve got a good relationship and I hope it continues, I guess we all need a bit of reassurance sometimes. Thanks again 👍

[Beeee]

Hello Cheersdad,

It's clear from your post, how caring of a father you are. I can understand why you might be worried, we can't control the actions of others and the world can be an uncertain place. 

The best thing you can do is make sure your son feels supported and knows how to take care of himself when he does go out. The advice you give him is up to you, but as a young woman my parents have always encouraged me to not stay out late, make sure I'm always with a friend that makes me feel safe and stay away from people that could cause trouble. 

Wishing the best,

Beeee

[jeremiahqu]

I'm so glad there's enough courage in many teenagers these days to express themselves. In our school, we were all very afraid of appearing silly or weird.

[richashon]

I'm so glad there's enough courage in many teenagers these days to express themselves. In our school, we were all very afraid of appearing silly or weird. There always was some quarterback who wanted to beat us up for looking weird. Your son must continue to show the world that he is unique. I'm glad you're proud of him and support him. Does your son do his own nail polish, or does he go to a nail salon to do it?

[Trans22]

I suggest that you maintain/encourage safe conversations with him.  I dare say that your teenage child has enough fears without you adding to those fears, so try to avoid expressing your fears in any way.  Demonstrating that you genuinely support and love them is the best thing you can do.  Knowing that your family supports and loves you really helps a person in your child's situation, especially when things turn sour.

[OgresHaveLayers]

I think exactly what you are doing is the best you can do. Let him explore himself and keep the lines of communication open. So many of us are damaged due to our families fear of what others might think. I came out as gay at 17 and just this year as genderqueer at 39. The genderqueer part was the hardest coming out. Keep being an ally and support your child to be the best them they can be. The younger generations are so much more open, supportive and accepting of each other's differences than us older generations.