Parents ASSIST for Family Communication on Sexual Wellness

This trial aims to help parents communicate effectively with their gay or bisexual sons about sexual health. The study tests the Parents ASSIST program, which educates parents through online sessions featuring videos and homework tasks focused on sexual wellness. Parents will practice these skills at home to support their sons. Families might consider participating if they have a gay or bisexual son between the ages of 12-18 living in the United States. As an unphased trial, this study offers families a unique opportunity to enhance communication and support their sons' well-being.

Research has shown that the Parents ASSIST program is generally safe for participants. This program enhances communication between parents and their gay or bisexual sons about sexual health. Since it involves watching videos and having discussions, it poses no physical risks.

While specific data on negative effects is lacking, the program's educational and behavioral focus makes harm unlikely. It aims to equip parents with knowledge and skills, which participants usually receive well. Engaging with the content online further minimizes any risk.

Researchers are excited about Parents ASSIST because it focuses on enhancing family communication around sexual wellness in a way that current programs don't. Unlike traditional sex education programs that directly target adolescents, Parents ASSIST empowers parents by providing them with online sessions and resources to engage their GBQ (gay, bisexual, and questioning) children in discussions about sexual health. This approach leverages the influence of family dynamics and communication to foster healthier conversations and potentially more impactful outcomes. By equipping parents with the tools to discuss sensitive topics effectively, the program seeks to create a supportive environment that can lead to better sexual wellness for adolescents.

Research shows that programs for parents can enhance their communication with children about sexual health. Studies have found that parents participating in these programs are 68% more likely to engage in discussions with their children and 75% more likely to feel comfortable discussing sexual topics. This is crucial because effective communication between parents and children correlates with healthier sexual choices in teens, such as delaying sexual activity or using protection. Although some results vary, many programs have successfully reduced risky sexual behaviors in teens. In this trial, the Parents ASSIST program aims to use these proven communication methods to help parents of gay or bisexual teens share inclusive and supportive health information. Participants in the intervention arm will engage in a 5-session online program focusing on sexual health and family communication, while those in the control arm will receive educational resources on other health topics.⁶⁷⁸⁹¹⁰