Caitlin Ryan, a social worker at San Francisco University, interviewed 224 gay, lesbian, and bisexual adults ages 21 to 24. Over 66% of those from rejecting families tried to kill themselves, compared to 20% of those from accepting families. The group that experienced rejection was at much higher risk for other problems, including substance abuse and depression.
According to Ryan, "We saw that in so many cases, families and caregivers thought what they were doing would help their children have a better life, fit in, belong, and be accepted by others. They'd try to change gender identity, forbid them from spending time with a gay friend, or not let them have access to information about what it is like to be a gay, lesbian or bisexual person."
This study appears in the journal Pediatrics.
Labels: sexual-orientation, acceptance, gay
Posted By: Aspen Education Group