Health care delivery and the concerns of gay and lesbian adolescents

Abstract

One hundred twenty-one self-identified homosexual adolescents presenting to a New York City gay/lesbian community clinic were questioned over a period of 18 months concerning their perceived needs and health care requirements. These individuals reported using various traditional and nontraditional methods to learn about the homosexual lifestyle. Through this socialization many developed a stereotypic view of homosexuality and its associated lifestyle. Family discovery and other specific concerns of these patients are detailed. The implications of this psychosocial process are important to professionals who provide health care to adolescents.