Challenges Facing Adolescent Gays and Lesbians - Essay Example

Gay and lesbians in their adolescence face similar developmental tasks as their peers who are heterosexual. They also have additional challenges that negatively affect their growth. They face challenges in developing identities as there are few role models of their sexual orientation in society. The trend is, however, changing as there are new prospects for gays and lesbians that are promising. Despite such changes and progress, the group must still cope with cultures that are often hostile (Berk, 2007). There is a stigma that still revolves around the issue of homosexuality.

Lesbian and gay adolescents have more unique burdens than one can imagine as they tend to be ignored. If left unchecked, the challenges can change a healthy teen into a useless body. The youths, for example, face a greater social trauma than any other group in the society. The adversity in society makes it difficult for adolescents to negotiate for their place. Families and religious communities find it hard to accept them. Peers at schools subject them to harassment and bullying while the administration continues to ignore their plea for protection and support (Berk, 2007).
Another particular problem faced by young adults is the lack of role models. Homosexual youths lack opportunities to socialize with heterosexual peers, as well as, to explore their social roles. The rehearsal for their adulthood continues to be difficult as they grow and develop mentally. The results are young adults who have self-hatred because they internalize negative social attitudes. The individuals’ personalities and sexuality cloud in shame and puts them at a disadvantage to compete with their peers. To cope with stigma, they conceal their identity which results in increased isolation (Berk, 2007).

How Learning to Cope with Challenges Results in a Better Adult
The skills used by gay and lesbian adolescents to overcome challenges equip them with the ability to handle other life challenges that present later in life. The challenges maximize their chances of survival or success and minimize damages or negative consequences. Young adults who manage to overcome the stigma and stress from their status acquire coping skills that can offset any psychological problems that present later in life (Berk, 2007).
As homosexual youths struggle to stay in control and cope with society, they develop strength in their emotions and actions. In overcoming the challenges, they undertake actions that minimize the damage labeling to their lives. The effectiveness to develop the actions depends on their thinking abilities and skills. They unlock creativity to enable lateral thinking and brainstorming for various options. Making judgment then needs decision-making skills that ensure that they avoid opting for the wrong such as committing suicide. The skills used at such a stage continue to be enhanced throughout life and are evident in their execution of plans later in adulthood. Their understanding to handle emotions is a critical aspect of developing a healthy adult (Berk, 2007).