Reviews the literature on suicidal behavior in gay and lesbian populations. Suicide risk factors include previous attempts, substance abuse, family dysfunction, and other factors. Suggests implications for mental-health counselors, which are discussed in terms of competency, intervention, and sociopolitical activism. Evidence suggests this…

Suicide rates among older adolescents is a major concern for researchers. A homosexual lifestyle, with its additional stresses, may erode one's adaptive characteristics. This study sought to identify and compare suicidal behavior and adaptive characteristics in homosexual and heterosexual adolescents. Sixty-two individuals were divided into two…

Surveys 162 self-identified lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) individuals with regard to suicidal behaviors, suicide risk factors, and reasons for living. Approximately 41% of the respondents indicated a serious consideration of suicide including the identification of a specific suicide plan or a past suicide attempt with significant intent to die.…

Reviews the research indicating the incidence rates and specific suicide risks for suicide in the gay, lesbian, bisexual, and questioning (GLBQ) adolescent population. Presents an ecological model of suicide risk assessment for GLBQ youth. The model is based on Bronfenbrenner's model of human development and argues for individual, micro, and macro…

Discusses the teacher's role in helping students deal with homosexuality and suicide. Teachers can provide unbiased information about personal relevant biological issues; be good listeners and confidantes; and value each student without regard to race, gender, class, or sexual orientation. Provides useful information on addressing homosexuality in…

The prevalence of suicidality among gay, lesbian, and bisexual youth is considerably higher than the reported rates for heterosexual youth. The strongest predictors for suicidality among all youth are substance abuse; victimization; social isolation; and exposure to suicide attempts or completion among family members. Homosexual and bisexual youth…

A frequently cited precipitant of gay and lesbian nonfatal suicidal behavior is the turmoil associated with coming out to one's family. This study investigated young adults' attitudes toward peers who engaged in suicidal behavior after coming out and being rejected by their parents, and compared them with attitudes toward persons who had become…

Reviews verbal and physical abuse that threatens well-being and physical survival of lesbian, gay male, and bisexual youths. Notes that this response to gay male, lesbian, and bisexual adolescents by significant others in their environment is often associated with several problematic outcomes, including school-related problems, running away,…

Disusses how lesbian, gay, and bisexual youth can often suffer disqualification ranging from internalized poor esteem and suicidality to physical danger. Examines how homophobia and heterosexism are both manifest and recovered from using case examples and offering therapeutic suggestions to clinicians. (Author/GCP)

Three hundred fifty lesbian, gay, and bisexual youths aged 14 to 21 years were questioned about suicidal thoughts and behaviors; families' reactions to youths' sexual orientation; and suicidality among relatives and friends. Results confirmed an association between sexual orientation and suicidality. (BF)

Research has found that gay men are much more likely to have attempted suicide than heterosexual men, and that their attempts have often occurred during adolescence. The essays in this collection explore the link between sexual orientation and self-injury. The following chapters are included: (1) "Introduction: The State of Knowledge on Gay,…

Discusses risks of school failure, suicide, and serious life problems among gay and lesbian youth and the need for counselors who will understand and work with them. Reviews court cases that demonstrate the liability of schools to protect gay and lesbian students from harassment. Recommends practical counseling strategies for gay and lesbian…

A retrospective study of the adolescent experience of 18 gay, lesbian, or bisexual young adults with high ability, using a postpositivistic mode of inquiry, found significant themes of danger, isolation, depression, and suicidal ideation, together with high achievement and extreme involvement in activities. Suggestions for educators are discussed.…

This project presents guidelines and resources for dealing effectively and positively with homosexuality in public schools. As the gay rights movement progresses and the civil rights of homosexual persons continue to receive legal affirmation, gays and lesbians who have kept their sexual orientation hidden will become more open about their…

Studied 165 lesbian, gay, and bisexual youths, 15 to 21 years old, to determine the impact of verbal abuse, threat of attacks, and assault on their mental health. Found a direct effect of victimization on mental health, whereas family support and self-acceptance in concert mediated this victimization and mental health relation. (MDM)