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No one knows for sure why some of us are gay and some of us are not. Lots of theories have been put forward ranging from genetic differences to overbearing parents. One thing we do know is that
no one chooses their sexuality. Some gay people knew they were
'different', if not gay, from as young as five or six. It is said that, for most of us, our sexuality is determined by the age of 12 or 13 and probably
by 16 at the latest. It's believed that there may well be a 'gay
gene' but a lot of research still has to be carried out on the subject.
Whatever the reason though, you are who you are - lesbian, gay or
straight. It's not about finding out why you're gay, but
making the most of being who you are and going through life
in a proud and positive way, confident in
yourself and in your capabilities.
 'Boy Culture' by Matthew Rettenmund: Told in first person, this erotic, insightful, and deliciously funny novel tells the story of a love triangle between the narrator, his confused roommate, and his other
partyboy roommate. It's a touching portrait of love and lust among three very different gay men |
Growing up gay
For many young gay or bisexual people, adolescence can be a time of particular anxiety and fear. Many lesbians and gay men look back on this part of their lives with sadness and regret. There are very few positive
gay role models and a lot of hostility towards openly gay people.
Gay teenagers often become painfully aware that they are not like other people and many become withdrawn and lonely, convinced that only they are feeling this way. Sometimes gay teenagers are told that they are not wanted by their parents if they are gay. Studies suggest that 30% of adolescents who commit suicide are gay. |
Gay teenagers learn to hide their true feelings or act as others want them to, for fear of being
ostracised, ridiculed or rejected by loved ones and friends. Above all, there can be a sense that we are somehow different, that we are abnormal and that we are going to disappoint people. If you are a gay teenager,
know that you are not alone. There are many out there who feel just the way you do.
Some people believe that if they get married their gay feelings will disappear. It is unusual for this to happen. Most store up a great deal of stress and anxiety for their later years.
If you want to talk confidentially about how you are feeling, look
for a switchboard in your area. They're
there to help you. They have had a lot of calls on this subject and
are well prepared to answer your questions. Don't be afraid to ask
them whatever you want - your call will be private and confidential.
" Heterosexuality has been forcibly and subliminally imposed on women.
Yet everywhere women have resisted it, often at the cost of physical torture, imprisonment, psychosurgery, social ostracism, and extreme poverty " - Adrienne Rich (poet and essayist) |
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GayCruz
- Coming Out
