|
Top > General Lesbian Help Information > Article
Issues Facing Young Lesbians and How to Overcome Them
By Kaylee Larson, LesbianLoveNow.com
Young lesbians today face many difficult issues. Fortunately, there are ways to overcome those issues and sources of support and encouragement available. It is important for young lesbians to realize that they are not alone and that others are experiencing the same struggles.
Here are some of the issues young lesbians may face and some ways to overcome them:
-
Religious conflict is something that lesbians of any age encounter, as many churches have condemned homosexual behavior. This can raise a lot of familial conflict, especially for lesbians raised in a religious home. However, some religious groups exist that readily accept gay and lesbian individuals and focus on diversity and the contributions each individual can bring to a community.
-
There is also some opposition with regard to the issue of children of gay or lesbian parents. The courts may attempt to remove them from their homes, they may experience harassment from other children, or they may face other issues related to having gay or lesbian parents. Luckily, courts are unlikely to remove children from gay or lesbian homes without significant reason, especially when the children are in clean homes and are treated appropriately. Children who are receiving harassment from their peers can learn to take pride in their stable home environments.
-
As a result of these public attitudes, lesbians can face isolation. There are three types of isolation that lesbians, especially adolescents, may encounter: cognitive isolation, social isolation, and emotional isolation.
- Cognitive isolation is related to the absence of information available to lesbians. The resources listed here can supply teen and adult lesbians with many avenues of information and encouragement.
- Social isolation is the lack of contact with healthy role models, which can be resolved through joining groups and contacting others through the Internet.
- Emotional isolation can be the result of lack of support from friends and family. In this case again, the resources available can help remedy the need for emotional support.
-
Another issue facing young lesbians is the threat of violence. Violence can occur within families due to a young lady coming out about her sexuality. This issue has led to a high level of suicide among homosexual individuals. With this in mind, it is important for young lesbians to evaluate their family situations and always seek advice from others, utilizing any resources available.
Although as lesbians we face challenges and opposition, it is essential for us to arm ourselves with knowledge and to reach out to others for support and empathy. Keep in mind that any difficult situation can be overcome with the right tools and support from others.
| |
|
|
