Teenagers who are bisexual, gay or lesbians are at a higher risk for severe mental disorders than compared to their peers that are heterosexual. Bullying, self-loafing and stress hormones also play a role and are linked to the impacts these teenagers suffer from as a result of being victimized and rejected because of their sexual preferences.
The study examined the “link between living in a homophobic environment and 'internalized homophobia,' e.g., feeling negatively about oneself because of one's sexual identity as LGB.” Students who were more internalized shows signs of the stress hormone being produced more rapidly compared to the teens that received less criticism and rejection for their sexual preference. The teens who were scrutinized had a much lower suicide rate than their peers.
This study is a very small portion of a much larger study that looks at the effects of teenagers who are rejected, bullied, internalized, and menaced about their sexual preference and how it effects these teens mental. The message that researchers and scientists are trying to get out to teenagers is "We need to promote acceptance and respect for the diversity of our population -- including sexual diversity -- at all levels: government, community, schools and homes."
Source: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2011/02/110202114957.htm
The information provided on Contracept.org is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between a patient/site visitor and his/her health professional. This information is solely for informational purposes and does not constitute the practice of medicine. We encourage all visitors to see a licensed physician or nutritionist if they have any concerns regarding health issues related to diet, personal image and any other topics discussed on this site. Neither the owners or employees of Contracept.org nor the author(s) of site content take responsibility for any possible consequences from any treatment, procedure, exercise, dietary modification, action or application of medication which results from reading this site. Always speak with your primary health care provider before engaging in any form of self treatment. Please see our Legal Statement for further information.
