Our Pathway “Out” …Growing up gay – Dealing With Life Stress – and Coping

The research which forms the basis of this report is based on interviews with members of a gay & bisexual youth group & participant observation data. The aim was to gather qualitative information to describe: the nature of life stressors impacting on young gay & bisexual men, in particular those which predispose them to self-harming & suicidal behaviour; the coping strategies used & the support available to them; strategies which build resilience among the young gay & bisexual men; & the possible range of strategies which might best support these young people. The research was conducted over an 8-month period in 1999. A number of recommendations are made to improve services for gay, lesbian, bisexual, & transgendered youth.