Homsexuality

Homosexual issues.

Lesbian, gay and bisexual young people face particular problems. They may not have access to information about their sexuality. At an age where conformity and acceptance is important, they may try to conceal their sexuality from their family and friends to avoid rejection. They may have already internalized a negative self-image and find it hard to accept themselves.

Young people who identify themselves as lesbian, gay or bisexual have been found to be more susceptible to bullying at school. A 1997 London survey of young gay, lesbian and bisexual people under 25 found that verbal abuse was common: nearly 90 per cent of females and 80 per cent of males reported verbal abuse. Nearly half of these incidents took place in an educational institution. A study in 2001 found that 82 per cent of gay men, lesbians and bisexuals had been verbally abused, and 60 per cent reported being physically attacked during their time at school. In the same study, 53 per cent of those participants who had been bullied had contemplated self-harm or suicide as a result of the violence experienced.

The experience of being bullied has a variety of effects on academic performance and future mental health. Ian Rivers has conducted research into bullying and its subsequent effects on the mental health of gay and lesbian young people. Fifty three per cent of participants said that they had contemplated self-harm as a result of being bullied. Forty per cent indicated that they had attempted self-harm or suicide on at least one occasion. In later life, some of those bullied said that they experienced nightmares or flashbacks related to the bullying. Others said that they tended to avoid social situations or large gatherings for fear of experiencing a panic attack.

Jan Bridget of the Lesbian Information Service has reviewed British and American research on lesbian and gay youth suicide. Her analysis reveals that lesbian