Scientists should reconsider traditional empirical and theoretical paradigms that narrowly define sexual-minority adolescents in terms of those who adopt a culturally defined sexual identity label such as gay, lesbian, or bisexual. This will lead to a different understanding of sexual-minority youths than is apparent in most published studies.…

Seven essays by youths ages 14-18 describe their experiences of pain, alienation, and secrecy as lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender persons. (SK)

Describes homosexual male counselor's experiences as marriage, family, and child counselor. Claims, because of counselor's comfort and openness to alternative roles, parenting situations, and identities, client couples are freed to dialogue about making role changes. Concludes homophobia often obscures valuable contributions homosexual men and…

Presents three case examples to illustrate specific actions that career counseling must take to integrate sexual orientation into career counseling. Suggested actions involve signaling lesbian and gay affirmation in career counseling practice; enhancing development of positive gay or lesbian identity in context of career development work; and…

Notes that, despite declassification of homosexuality as mental illness, efforts to sexually reorient lesbians and gay men continue. Examines construct of sexual orientation. Reviews literature in psychotherapeutic and religious conversion therapies, finding no evidence that such treatments are effective in their intended purpose. Establishes need…

Urges classroom teachers at all levels to be prepared to offer to students who want and need them books that help teenagers understand homosexuality. Describes the author's efforts to help a student by lending her a copy of "Annie on My Mind," a young adult book dealing with sexual orientation. Describes the student's positive experience with this…

Notes little empirical research exists on mental health issues of lesbians/gays. Contends that whether researchers choose to define sexual orientation by sexual behavior, self-definition, or membership in lesbian and gay community groups will impact results. Sees mental health research that includes lesbians, gays, and heterosexuals allowing…

Drawing upon queer legal theory, historical policy analysis, and social, legal, and educational history, explores the legal foundations and maintenance of what is described as the assimilationist imperative for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgendered administrators working in public schools. (Contains 81 references and 12 case law citations.)…

Describes dynamics and interventions in relation to adolescents who express concern about gay and lesbian issues. Advocates therapeutic intervention based on psychological and emotional aspects of sexual preference, and cultural and social expectations of those who identify themselves as gay or lesbian. Describes three case studies. (Author/BB)

Indepth interviews with two female and two male school leaders, one of each gender who were "closeted" in their sexuality and one of each who were "open." Foucault's sovereign and disciplinary power and normalization conceptually framed the study. Interviewee's fear of disclosure resulted in reproducing heteronormative power.…

Challenging obstacles that adolescent lesbians encounter are described; strategies for creating a supportive environment for students forming their adolescent identity, regardless of sexual orientation, are presented. Homophobia, identity development, isolation and passing, coming out, and minority issues are discussed. Direct intervention, staff…

Explores how gay, lesbian, and bisexual youth are integrated into society. The sexual minority youth of today have greater opportunities for development and acceptance than older gays and lesbians had, however, gay youth are still at high risk for confusion, societal pressure, and feelings of self-destruction and isolation. (EMS)

North Americans' fear and preoccupation with safety and security as a result of the September 11 attacks is similar to that felt by gays and lesbians in daily life. Queer persons are not part of the Christian family, according to Jerry Falwell and other rightist Christian fundamentalists, including those involved in transformative ministry and…