Chapter 11: Sexuality

On the site

One of the real benefits of the world wide web is that it can help people find information about things that may be hard to find locally or which they may want to pursue anonymously. This may be particularly helpful for adolescents who are exploring their sexual identity - especially if they live in small towns, isolated areas, or are afraid of how their friends, community, or family may react to their interests. On-line discussions and chat groups can also provide social support and advice for people who may feel alone, unique, or isolated. There are many on-line forums aimed at gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transsexual (GLBT) youth. All of these sites have links to many more.

• The Gay Student Center includes diaries, poetry, advice and discussion.
• YouthPride in Atlanta offers links, advice, and on-line chats.
• TeenAdvice's website includes a specific area geared towards GLBT youth. It contains a page on Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Issues with two pages of links and resources to support groups, articles, information, and chat rooms.

• A good background piece on the development of sexual orientation is available from the American Psychological Association.