Full of narratives, scholarly research, and problem-solving
scenarios, Queer Kids: The Challenges and Promise for Lesbian, Gay,
and Bisexual Youth examines the unique problems and hardships
homosexual youths encounter and how they cope, survive, and find
understanding amidst homophobic intolerance. This enlightening book
will help gay and straight adults understand what life is like for
a young gay adult, as well as aid counselors, students, ministers,
and other gay youths in need of advice and guidance. In addition,
readers will learn about the coming-out process and how gay youths
struggle to define themselves sexually and emotionally.
Contents Preface Acknowledgments Who Are Queer Kids? A Working Vocabulary Conclusion "Becoming" Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Feeling Different Awareness of Same-Sex Attractions First Sexual Contacts and Dating Self-Identification Conclusion Coming Out of the Closet Stages Conclusion Challenges for Queer Kids What Challenges? Conclusion The Special Problem of Schools School Personnel Curriculum Harassment and Violence Extracurricular Activities College Campuses Conclusion Outcomes for Sexual-Minority Youths Statistics The Pluses Addressing the Needs of Queer Kids Change Societal Attitudes Provide More Role Models Educate Families Eliminate Untenable School Conditions Monitor Juvenile Courts Establish Special Programs and Schools Open All Youth Programs to Lesbian and Gay Youth Involve the Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Community Train More Knowledgeable and Unbiased Professionals Organize College Students Conclusion: Who Owns the Problem? Counseling Difficulties in Serving Queer Kids Education of the Counselor Getting 'Em in the Door Keeping 'Em There Counseling Beyond the Individual Teen Helping Suicidal Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Youths Conclusion Counseling for Coming Out Challenges to Coming Out Counseling Others Conclusion Parental Acceptance Acceptance of a Lesbian, Gay, or Bisexual Child Acceptance of a Partner or Lover Sharing with Others Conclusion Letter to a Queer Kid Who Are You? Being Different Take Pride in Yourself Coming Out A Relationshp: That Special Someone Gender Needs Choosing a Counselor Living with Parents Celebrate Yourself Conclusion Resources Useful Books for Youth, Counselors, and Family Videos On-Line Resources Talk Lines/Hotlines/Crisis Lines National Organizations Youth Groups and Support Services Pen Pal Services Notes Bibliography
