Describes general developmental struggles of gay and lesbian adolescents as delineated in recent research. Focuses on three developmental areas: the consolidation of sexual identity and the effects of both parental and peer relationships on gay adolescents' development. Notes weaknesses in current research and theory, and offers suggestions which…

Contends that, with childhood predispositions, developmental tasks of adolescence influence degree and course of homosexuality. Notes different types of homosexuality that emerge in adolescence which are influenced by different psychodynamic conditions in each stage of adolescence. Changing developmental roles in relation to individuation, object…

Findings from 27 gay male adolescents revealed that most respondents reported feeling different from other boys as children. Average age of first crush on another boy was 12.7 years; average age for realizing they were gay was 12.5 years. Traditional family values played greater role in predicting coming out experiences than did race. (Author/NB)

Practical information for therapists who deal with adolescents who do not finish tasks is presented. The relationship of task incompletion to neurosis, psychosis, depression, homosexuality, and drug abuse is described, and techniques and guidelines for treatment are provided. (Author)

Examines the literature on identity development of homosexual youth, and parental and familial influences on the coming out process. Research indicates that homosexual adolescents who have a close relationship with their parents and families tend to come out at a younger age and experience more positive identities than those who have a poor…

Reviews literature on various aspects of adolescent sexual development, such as masturbation, how knowledge of sex is learned, sexual preferences, sexual practices, and values. (DB)

Contrasts the experiences of most adolescents during social and psychological development with the special challenges faced by those developing an awareness of their homosexuality. Emphasis is placed upon the interplay between societal prejudices and discrimination toward homosexuality and personal development and risk-taking behavior in gay…

Collects comparative and descriptive data on adolescent attitudes on homosexuality and attempts to show that self-concept, and body self-image as one major aspect of self-concept, are significant correlates of an adolescent's attitude toward homosexuality. (Author/RK)

Seeks to bridge the gulf between the life experiences of gay and lesbian teens and those of the counselor. Focuses on sexual identity formation, the hidden nature of the population in the schools and these student's increased mental-health risk factors, supportive interventions, and suggestions for counselors in assisting these adolescents. (RJM)

To enhance attempts to reduce antihomosexual prejudice among juveniles, asked 31 juvenile offenders a series of structured questions concerning their attitudes toward gay males and lesbians. Offenders' attitudes, which were maintained by myths and stereotypes, were characterized by negativity, ambivalence, and defensiveness. Specific…

A review of 20 United States studies of adolescent sexual behavior was undertaken to integrate data accumulated over the past three decades. Several methodological incongruities made comparisons difficult, so suggestions are made for future research. Available data suggest a gradual evolution, not a revolution, in adolescent sexual behavior.…

Examined health concerns of 278 urban junior high school students. Highest levels of concerns pertained to dental health, friendships, nutrition, and sex; lowest levels pertained to smoking, birth control, pregnancy, and homosexuality. Younger, female, and less healthy students expressed greater health concerns. (Author/NB)