NCJ Number
177041
Journal
Journal of Gay & Lesbian Social Services Volume: 8 Issue: 3 Dated: 1998 Pages: 41-50
Date Published
1998
Length
10 pages
Annotation
This article explores various types of violence in the lives of young people, examines the harassment of gay and lesbian youth in school, and offers strategies for protecting lesbian, gay and bisexual youth.
Abstract
Young people are exposed to violence, as victims or observers, because violence is an integral part of the environment. Lesbian, gay and bisexual young people face an increased risk of violence because of their sexual minority status. The school setting could offer those adolescents a temporary haven where they could feel safe. However, as many as half of lesbian, and gay students may be physically harassed at school, with more than 90 percent subject to verbal abuse. While individual gay, lesbian, and bisexual youth may benefit from therapy designed to help them strengthen their coping skills and increase their support network, other interventions may also be helpful. Creating and maintaining affirming and safe environments may include: school-based support groups, library and curriculum materials that acknowledge the contributions of gays, lesbians, and bisexuals, as well as political action at the local level to confront the many forms of homophobia, especially in the schools. References