Question

Tom, a junior in college—recently came out as gay to his family. Contrary to his every expectation, they went ballistic. His parents want him out of the house and his two brothers refuse to talk with him. In fact, they have now come to refer to him only in the third person and then with derogatory hate speech. Assuming that all parties will be sorry at some later time if the relationship is not repaired, what would you suggest Tom’s mother and father do? What do you suggest Tom’s brothers do? What do you suggest Tom do?

Answer 1

They all should take a break from one another

Step-by-step explanation:

Tom's coming out as gay was a big shock to his family. Not only they went ballistic, they also refused to accept the truth of their son/brother sexual orientation. The family's reaction is quite normal in these circumstances, they use denial as a defense mechanism.

Acceptance needs time and patience. All members of Tom's family (parents, brothers and Tom himself) should take a break from each other. During that time, their emotions would calm down and they would be able to think more clearly and reasonably. After that time, communication would be easier and some kind of understanding of Tom's coming out might be reached.