Bullying and Mental Health of Youth

It's already tough to be a teen with all the challenges adolescence but gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered (GBLT) teens also have the challenge of harassment, threats, and even violence directed at them practically daily. They are called or overhear anti-gay slurs such as "homo", "faggot" and "sissy" or "That's so gay" frequently every day. More troubling is a study that found thirty-one percent of gay youth had been threatened or injured at school in the last year.

So what is bullying?

Bullying is intentional aggressive behavior to show one's power or strength. Likely, it will be repeated again and again. Children and youth who identify themselves as GLBT youth or are just suspected of being gay can face constant and serious bullying by others. This bullying can even be sexual in nature and in some cases can be called sexual harassment.

How does this affect mental health of teens?

Gay teens are at higher risk because of stress that is a direct result of the hatred and prejudice that surround them.

Research has shown that GLBT youth are two to three times more likely to attempt suicide than heterosexual youth.

Bullying in U.S. schools are often so intense that gay youth are unable to receive an adequate education.

They're often experience embarrassment or shame of being bullied and may not report the abuse.

GLBT youth are more likely to skip school due to bullying. Research shows that 22 percent of gay youth skipped school in the past month because they felt unsafe.

GLBT youth feel alone and isolated. According to several surveys, four out of five gay and lesbian students say can't find gay friendly teachers in school.

Is the school responsible?

Schools have a responsibility to offer a safe and enjoyable environment for students and faculty. Bullying affects everyone. Even heterosexual youth reported bullying for being perceived as gay. It's a known fact bullying was involved in causing the Columbine shootings. Anyone, especially faculty, who just ignore the problem are contributing it.

How can I help my teen?

Look for signs of distress. Encourage schools to have programs on respect, diversity and anti-bullying. An open discussion with students about gay prejudice may help. You can start a GLBT support club at your school. Schools having these kinds of programs reported feeling safer in school. Most importantly, encourage youth to tell a teacher, counselor, coach, nurse, or his or her parents or guardians about bullying. If not, then report it yourself. You'll do a world of good.

SOURCES:

Bart, M. Creating a safer school for gay students. Counseling Today, September 1998

Report from the Secretary's Task Force on Youth Suicide, 1989

Sessions Stepp, Laura. "A Lesson in Cruelty: Anti-Gay Slurs Common at School; Some Say Insults Increase as Gays' Visibility Rises." The Washington Post 19 June 2001

http://www.stopbullyingnow.hrsa.gov/adults/tip-sheets/tip-sheet-33.aspx