GAY & LESBIAN TEENS It is important for parents to understand their teen’s homosexual orientation and to provide emotional support. Parents often have difficulty accepting their teen’s homosexuality for some of the same reasons that the teen wants to keep it a secret. These include: Ø  feeling different from peers Ø  feeling guilty about their sexual orientation Ø  worrying about the response from their families and loved ones Ø  being teased and ridiculed by their peers Ø  worrying about AIDS, HIV infection, and other sexually transmitted diseases Ø  fearing discrimination when joining clubs, sports, seeking admission to college and finding employment Ø  being rejected and harassed by others Gay or lesbian adolescents should be allowed to decide when and to whom to disclose their homosexuality. Parents and other family members may gain understanding and support from organizations such as PFLAG.