Family Rejection as a Predictor of Negative Health Outcomes in White and Latino Lesbian, gay, and Bisexual Young Adults

Quantitative scales were developed to assess retrospectively in young adults the frequency of parental & caregiver reactions to a lesbian, gay, or bisexual orientation during adolescence. The survey was administered to a sample of 224 white & Latino young adults, aged 21-25. Higher rates of family rejection were significantly associated with poorer health outcomes. On the basis of odds ratios, these young adults were 8.4 times more likely to report having attempted suicide & 5.9 times more likely to report high levels of depression. It is concluded providers who serve this population should assess & help educate families about the impact of rejecting behaviours. (37 refs.) JA