title: Mental health issues of gay and lesbian adolescents.
abstract: The mental health concerns of gay and lesbian adolescents are best understood within the context of cultural limitations, including a problematic conceptualization of adolescence, homophobia, and erotophobia. Within this framework, background information about homosexuality is presented; and the special social pressures and psychologic problems of gay and lesbian youth are discussed, with particular attention paid to internalized homophobia, developmental issues, and the "coming-out" process. Differences between gay and lesbian mental health issues are highlighted. Finally, practical suggestions regarding treatment planning are provided.
authors.affiliation: Department of Psychology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis.
authors.forename: J C
authors.initials: JC
authors.lastname: Gonsiorek
mesh_terms: D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000293:Adolescent; D005260:Female; D006716:Homosexuality; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011606:Psychosexual Development; D012917:Social Adjustment; D012945:Social Values