The Internet As a Safety Net: Findings From a Series of Online Focus Groups With LGB and Non-LGB Young People in the United States

Abstract

Lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) youth face special challenges during adolescence including stigma, alienation, and abuse which have been linked with social costs and negative health outcomes. The Internet has been shown to ameliorate the negative impacts of homophobia by providing access to friendships and support, information, romantic partners, and a gay community. In this qualitative study, internet use of LGB and Non-LGB young people were compared. The LGB young people were more adventurous in their internet use than non LGB young people, including meeting new people online. Findings have implications for adolescent health professionals and policy makers.

KEYWORDS:

• Sexual minority youth
• Internet
• adolescent sexuality
• homophobia
• sexual attraction

Notes

1. GLSEN is the leading U.S. national education organization focused on ensuring safe schools for all students. It has strong ties to school- and community-based groups.

2. The term pansexual refers to someone who is attracted to all gender identities and biological sexes, and in this study was therefore treated similarly to those identifying as bisexual.