Sexual Orientation and Developmental Challenges Experienced by gay and Lesbian Youths

The impact of “coming out” or defining a homosexual orientation on the development & identity formation of youths is discussed. The process of coming out is presented as entailing 4 dimensions: recognizing oneself as lesbian or gay; exploring one’s sexual orientation through the gay & lesbian community; disclosing one’s sexual orientation; & becoming more comfortable with one’s sexual orientation. The challenges faced by these youths are described & future research directions are discussed.