Describe one major negative issue that is prevalent for LGBT population

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

The following are all issues that are inherent for the LGBT population:
Suicide: Gay, lesbian, and bisexual teens are at high risk for self-destructive behavior, including suicide (Frankowshi, 2003). One of the reasons for a higher suicide rate in this population is an increase in risk factors such as higher rates of substance abuse (Grossman and D’Augelli, 2007) and depression and rejection by both parents and peers.

Domestic violence: As a related issue, group leaders working with LGBT couples may have to address the serious problem of violence and battering (Peterman, 2003). Domestic violence is as frequent in gay and lesbian couples as it is in the society at large, but has been grossly ignored and underreported (Peterman, 2003). Most victims tell no one, and authorities often fail to ask. Domestic violence is a taboo topic in U.S. society, especially in gay, lesbian, and bisexual communities (Peterman, 2003).

Discrimination related to parenting: Same-sex couples face difficulty if they wish to adopt children. Further, many states discriminate against LGBT persons in awarding child custody and visitation rights; in some states, these parents are considered unfit. Concerns about coming out also affect the children of LGBT parents. Some children choose to hide their parent’s sexuality or gender identity from friends.

Unacceptance from LGBT families: Parents of gay, lesbian, and bisexual children may have difficulty accepting the sexual orientation of their children. Children whose parents are lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender may have a number of issues of their own. Younger children may be confused about why their parent or parent(s) are not like those they see in books or on television, or at their friends’ homes. Older children may feel embarrassed about being different or may be uncertain about inviting friends to their homes for fear of teasing or repercussions. Teenagers may try to make their parent(s) “pass”. Sometimes other parents restrict their children’s friendships with children who live in same-sex households or have transgender parents.

Drug and alcohol abuse: Many mental health professionals assume that drug and alcohol abuse is higher in the LGBT community than society as a whole. The evidence seems to suggest that sexual minority individuals do experience higher rates of alcohol and substance use disorders (Cochran, Acherman, Mays & Ross, 2004). Internalized homophobia may explain the etiology and high incidence of alcoholism in gay men and lesbians (Herek, 2007; Chang, 2003). According to Pettinato (2005), LGB individuals tend to misuse alcohol or drugs to ameliorate their feelings related to societal rejection, alienation, and stress.