Lesbian, gay, and Bisexual Youth and Their Families: Disclosure of Sexual Orientation and its Consequences

Lesbian, gay & bisexual youth, aged 14-21, & living at home, were studied for patterns of disclosure of sexual orientation to families. Three-quarters had told at least one parent. Those who had disclosed reported verbal & physical abuse by family members, & acknowledged more suicidality than those who had not “come out” to their families. Over half in the disclosed group vs. 12% of the nondisclosed, had made a past suicide attempt & one-third reported current suicide ideation. (35 refs.)