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GLB adolescent's "coming out"
1School of Nursing, University of Alabama at Birmingham, USA. triley@uab.edu
Summary
More gay, lesbian, and bisexual (GLB) individuals are coming out during adolescence. Nurses must update their knowledge on GLB disclosure and related behaviors to provide appropriate care for youth and families.
Area of Science:
- Adolescent Health
- Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity
- Nursing Practice
Background:
- Increasing numbers of gay males, lesbians, and bisexual individuals (GLB) are disclosing their sexual orientation during adolescence.
- This trend toward earlier disclosure has significant implications for healthcare providers, particularly nurses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the process of GLB disclosure among adolescents.
- To highlight the trend of earlier disclosure ('coming out') in this population.
- To discuss the implications of these trends for nursing practice and patient care.
Main Methods:
- A review of scholarly published literature.
- Analysis of professional organization documents.
- Examination of GLB advocacy publications.
Main Results:
- Adolescent GLB disclosure is occurring at younger ages.
- Understanding the nuances of GLB disclosure is crucial for effective intervention.
- Nurses require updated knowledge to address the unique needs of GLB youth and their families.
Conclusions:
- Nurses must enhance their understanding of coming-out issues and nondisclosing sexual behaviors.
- This updated knowledge is essential for accurate assessment of adolescent and family needs.
- Appropriate care and support for GLB youth depend on informed nursing practice.
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