Understanding and Challenging Stigma toward ... - Pact Cambodia

Naming
Stigma
toward
MSM
We need to help parents see that this approach does not work but rather makes
things worse. MSM need the love and support of their families, and when
parents reject them, or force them to get married, this is very painful and very
hard to deal with, and as a result some MSM lose control of their lives.
MSM need their families continuing love, understanding, acceptance and
support. This love and support will give them what they need to survive in a
difficult world.
MSM sons can and do provide support to the family. Just because they are
MSM does not mean they cannot contribute to the family’s success and
well-being.
Some parents are angry with their MSM sons, but don’t give up on them. “My
son is gay, but I need to accept him. I need to put my anger and attitudes
aside and offer him help. No one can understand the feelings of another
person. I cannot change him, but I need to help him survive and live a full life.”
This father buried his anger and opened his heart. He stopped saying “my son
is bad,” and focused on providing support. The most painful thing for an MSM
is when the family gives up on him and stops loving him. MSM who have
self-esteem and are able to cope with social stigma are those who have the
love and support of their families.
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