A positive school climate has been associated with decreased depression, suicidal feelings, substance use, and unexcused school absences among LGB students. However, some LGB youth are more likely than their heterosexual peers to experience negative health and life outcomes.įor youth to thrive in schools and communities, they need to feel socially, emotionally, and physically safe and supported. Positive environments can help all youth achieve good grades and maintain good mental and physical health. Having a school that creates a safe and supportive learning environment for all students and having caring and accepting parents are especially important. Most lesbian, gay, bisexual, (LGB) youth are happy and thrive during their adolescent years. As that changes and data becomes available, this content will be updated to include information regarding transgender and questioning/queer youth. Historically, YRBS and other studies have gathered data on lesbian, gay, and bisexual youth but have not included questions about transgender and questioning/queer youth. Ways Parents Can Influence the Health of Their LGB Youth.
