The bullying of sexual minorities at school: Its nature and long-term correlates - Rivers, Ian (Educational and Child Psychology, 2001)
Reports on a 3-yr study focusing upon the experiences of a sample of lesbians, gay men, and bisexual men and women who were bullied at school, and the long-term impact it has had upon their lives. Data collection consisted of 3 elements: A survey of 190 16–66 yr old lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgendered adults' experiences of bullying at school; a survey of the psycho-social correlates and long-term effects of bullying with a sub-sample of 119 Ss (aged 16–54 yrs); and, finally, a small number of in-depth interviews with 16 Ss. Ss' experiences of bullying in school were long-term (mean: 5 yrs) systematic, and were perpetrated by groups of peers rather than by individuals. Ss were unlikely to report incidents of bullying either to teachers or to someone at home. In the survey of psychosocial correlates and long-term effects over 50% of Ss reported contemplating self-harming behavior or suicide with 40% making 1 or more attempts. As adults, they were found to exhibit some symptoms associated with negative affect when compared to controls. However, Ss did not suffer from low self-esteem and had a positive attitude towards their own homosexuality/bisexuality and homosexuality/bisexuality generally. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: bullying experiences; lesbians; gay men; bisexual; transgendered adults; school; long-term impact; psychosocial correlates; Aggressive Behavior; Experiences (Events); Homosexuality; School Environment; Victimization; Lesbianism; Male Homosexuality; Psychosocial Factors; Transsexualism; Bullying

Bisexual and Transgender Identities in a Nonclinical Sample of North Americans: Suicidal Intent, Behavioral Difficulties, and Mental Health Treatment - Mathy, Robin M.; Lehmann, Barbara A.; Kerr, Deborah L. (Journal of Bisexuality, 2003)
We hypothesized that a higher proportion of bisexual females (n = 792) and transgender individuals (n = 73) than bisexual males (n = 1,457) would self-report suicidal intent, behavioral difficulties, and mental health treatment. Relative to bisexual males, bisexual females and transgender individuals had significantly higher prevalence rates of suicidal intent, mental health difficulties, and mental health services. Prevalence rates among transgender participants did not vary by sexual orientation. The findings suggest that sexism and heterosexism have an interactive effect that compounds the social weight of oppression and increases risks for overwhelming sexual minorities' adaptive functioning. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: transsexualism; bisexualism; sexual identity; suicidal intent; behavioral difficulties; mental health treatment; Bisexuality; Gender Identity; Mental Health; Suicidal Ideation; Transsexualism; Treatment

Lesbian and gay issues in work with young people: Are schools 'out' this summer? - Trotter, Jay (British Journal of Social Work, 1999)
This commentary discusses 3 articles relevant to lesbian and gay issues in social work. The 1st article (J. Frankham, 1998) critiques the growing interest in peer education, a method that is supposed to be particularly useful for teenagers and with traditionally 'difficult' subjects like sex education. However, Frankman does not differentiate between heterosexual adolescents and lesbian and gay adolescents, either in relation to sex education or peer education. The 2nd article (J. B. Pearce and A. E. Thompson, 1998) provides a condensed overview of childhood bullying. Trotter suggests that much of the relevant knowledge about and understanding of bullying are omitted or devalued. The 3rd article by M. P. Popenhagen and R. M. Qualley (see record [rid]1998-02188-006[/rid]) outlines the demography and characteristics of suicidal behavior amongst young people (13–21 yr olds), providing insights into the underlying feelings and motivations of young people and dispells a number of influential myths surrounding suicide. Popenhagen and Qualley also discuss research suggesting that suicide attempts are between 2 and 6 times more frequent among lesbian and gay youth than among the general population and that 30% of gay/bisexual young men have attempted suicide. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: myths regarding & detection of & risk factors & intervention & prevention techniques for suicide & childhood bullying & peer sex education & other issues relevant to social work with gay adolescents; At Risk Populations; Homosexuality; Social Casework; Suicide; Suicide Prevention; Aggressive Behavior; Lesbianism; Male Homosexuality; Peer Counseling; Sex Education

Gender identity disorder: An emerging problem for pediatricians - Meyer, Walter J. III (Pediatrics, 2012)
Comments on the articles by Norman P. Spack et al. (see record [rid]2012-09899-012[/rid]) & Andrea L. Roberts et al. (see record [rid]2012-09899-011[/rid]). Combining the relatively high prevalence of cross-gender behavior with widespread information in the public domain concerning the availability of a new early treatment using puberty blocking hormones has produced a rapid increase in the number of referrals, as noted in the paper by Spack et al. The use of puberty hormone blocking agents outlined by Spack et al. provides an extension of the decision time. I agree with Spack et all that the stage of puberty, not the age of the child, should be the determining factor of when to begin medications to block puberty. The paper of Roberts et al. raises the question of the association of gender identity disorder (GID) with significant psychological and psychiatric problems such as abuse, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and depression. The article by Roberts et al. assumed that the gender nonconformity predates the abuse but states clearly they cannot prove it is a causal effect of abuse. As indicated by Roberts et al. gender nonconformity should be monitored for all types of abuse as well as poor self esteem, depression, suicidality, anxiety symptoms, and body dissatisfaction. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: gender identity disorder; pediatrics; medical centers; parental support; psychiatric comorbidity; Child Abuse; Child Behavior Disorders; Crime Victims; Female; Gender Identity; Humans; Male; Referral and Consultation; Sexual Behavior; Sexual and Gender Disorders; Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic; Pediatrics; Treatment Facilities; Gender Dysphoria; Comorbidity; Parents; Social Support

Suicidal ideation and attempts among sexual minority youths receiving social services - Walls, N. Eugene; Freedenthal, Stacey; Wisneski, Hope (Social Work, 2008)
The increased risk of suicidal ideation and attempts among sexual minority youths have been documented in studies using both convenience samples and representative community samples. However, as most youths do not access social services, these studies do not necessarily represent the sexual minority youths that community-based social workers may encounter in their day-to-day practice. As such, the present study on risk and protective factors related to suicidality surveyed 182 sexual minority youths (14 to 21 years of age) who sought assistance at a community-based social services agency in Denver. Similar to existing literature, the findings suggest that risk factors related to suicidality include hopelessness, methamphetamine use, homelessness, and in-school victimization. However, unlike studies of the general youth population, this study found that African American and male sexual minority youths were not at a lower risk of suicidality than sexual minority youths who were, respectively, white or female. In addition, our findings suggest that the presence of gay-straight alliances in schools may function as a protective resource for sexual minority youths. Implications for social work practice are discussed. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: suicidal ideation; suicide attempt; sexual minority youths; social services; social workers; risk factors; protective factors; Adolescent; Adult; Female; Homosexuality; Humans; Male; Minority Groups; Social Work; Suicide, Attempted; Transvestism; Attempted Suicide; Minority Groups; Social Services; Suicidal Ideation; Sexual Minority Groups; Protective Factors; Risk Factors; Social Workers

Male street prostitution in Dublin: A psychological analysis - McCabe, Ian; Acree, Michael; O'Mahony, Finbar; McCabe, Jenny; Kenny, Jean; Twyford, Jennifer; Quigley, Karen; McGlanaghy, Edel (Journal of Homosexuality, 2011)
This study assessed the mental health characteristics of 12 male street prostitutes (MSPs) in Dublin, with particular regard to issues of homelessness, substance abuse, depression, suicidal ideation, and self-esteem. Participants completed five psychometric tests, which indicated that all of the participants had above average levels of depression and suicidal ideation and low levels of self-esteem. This study found that candidates likely to become MSPs are young males with a combination of factors, including a background of childhood sexual or physical abuse, leaving school early, running away from home, and a dependence on heroin. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2020 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: male street prostitution; mental health; self esteem; depression; suicidal ideation; homelessness; Adolescent; Adult; Child; Child Abuse, Sexual; Depression; HIV Infections; Homeless Persons; Homeless Youth; Homosexuality, Male; Humans; Ireland; Male; Prostitution; Psychological Tests; Self Concept; Sex Workers; Substance-Related Disorders; Suicidal Ideation; Young Adult; Drug Abuse; Homeless; Major Depression; Suicidal Ideation; Sex Work; Human Males; Male Homosexuality; Self-Esteem

Sexual, behavioral, and social characteristics of female sex workers and their risk of sexually transmitted infections: In South Korea - Jung, Minsoo (Sexuality and Disability, 2012)
This study calculated the sexually transmitted infection (STI) prevalence rates among female sex workers (FSWs) in South Korea and elucidated the social and behavioral risk factors that affect FSW’s infection with STIs. FSWs were recruited using a multistage cluster probability sampling method (N = 1,073). STI prevalence rates were 9.8 % for Treponema pallidum, 2.6 % for gonorrhea, and 12.5 % for Chlamydia. The risk probability of STI infection was higher for participants with fewer social relationships (OR = 0.99), more suicide attempt experiences (OR = 1.36), lower frequency of condom use (OR = 0.81), lower self-efficacy (OR = 0.78), and more irregular STI examination experiences (OR = 0.69). The STI prevalence rates of FSWs in South Korea were lower than those of FSWs in other Southeast Asian nations. While the direct factors for STI prevalence among this population were related to safe sex, indirect factors such as social support were also significant. Because this affects the self-efficacy of isolated individuals among sex workers, preventive interventions in STIs among FSWs must be expanded to the promotion of social support and mental health programs. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2020 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: sexual & behavioral & social risk factors; South Korean female sex workers; risk factors; sexually transmitted infections; Human Females; Risk Factors; Sexually Transmitted Diseases; Sex Work; Psychosexual Behavior; Social Behavior

Verbal and physical abuse as stressors in the lives of lesbian, gay male, and bisexual youths: Associations with school problems, running away, substance abuse, prostitution, and suicide - Savin-Williams, Ritch C. (Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 1994)
A common theme identified in empirical studies and clinical reports of lesbian, gay male, and bisexual youths is the chronic stress that is created by the verbal and physical abuse they receive from peers and adults. This article reviews the verbal and physical abuse that threatens the well-being and physical survival of lesbian, gay male, and bisexual youths. This response to gay male, lesbian, and bisexual adolescents by significant others in their environment is often associated with several problematic outcomes, including school-related problems, running away from home, conflict with the law, substance abuse, prostitution, and suicide. Although the causal link between these stressors and outcomes has not been scientifically established, there is suggestive evidence that these outcomes are consequences of verbal and physical harassment. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2020 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: verbal & physical abuse; chronic stress & school problems & running away & substance abuse & prostitution & suicide & conflicts with law; lesbian & gay & bisexual adolescents; research review; Adolescent; Adult; Bisexuality; Child Abuse; Female; Homosexuality; Humans; Juvenile Delinquency; Learning Disorders; Male; Peer Group; Prejudice; Prostitution; Risk Factors; Runaway Behavior; Sexual Harassment; Social Problems; Stress, Psychological; Substance-Related Disorders; Suicide; Bisexuality; Lesbianism; Male Homosexuality; Physical Abuse; Stress; Drug Abuse; Runaway Behavior; Suicide; Sex Work

Suicide among gay and lesbian adolescents and young adults: A review of the literature - Kulkin, Heidi S.; Chauvin, Elizabeth A.; Percle, Gretchen A. (Journal of Homosexuality, 2000)
Explores the issue of suicide among gay and lesbian adolescents and young adults, as well as provides information to guide clinicians in working effectively with this population. The theoretical perspectives on homosexual identity development by R. R. Troiden (1989), V. C. Cass (1979), and S. G. Lewis (1979) are discussed in connection with E. Durkheim's (1951) Suicide Theory and various theoretical risk factors, as well as implications for social work practice. This paper is intended to be utilized as a tool during the assessment phase of treatment with an adolescent or young adult who may be questioning his or her sexuality. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: homosexual identity development & suicide among gay & lesbian adolescents & young adults; implications for social work practice; Adolescent; Adolescent Behavior; Adult; Female; Homosexuality; Humans; Male; Models, Psychological; Risk Factors; Suicide; Lesbianism; Male Homosexuality; Psychosocial Development; Self-Concept; Suicide; Social Casework

Review of Current issues in lesbian, gay and bisexual health - Miller-Director, Sheana; Heim, Jenika; Long, Mary; Rothblum, Esther (Psychology of Women Quarterly, 2008)
Reviews the book, Current issues in lesbian, gay and bisexual health by Jay Harcourt (2006). Harcourt begins by asserting that compiling the volume was 'like putting together a puzzle,' and we are inclined to agree; although we believe there are a few pieces missing, on the whole the puzzle came together well. The chapters presented in Harcourt's volume utilize a wide range of research methods and cover topics as diverse as HIV/AIDS education for transwomen of color; suicidality and sexual identity; and mental health among lesbian, bisexual, and heterosexual women. Although there are topics and perspectives not covered that we would have liked to have seen addressed, we believe that the compilation is an important contribution to the body of scholarship on LGBT health issues. Many of the chapters included in the book address issues that are extremely under researched within the health field. We were also impressed with the substantial inclusion of transgender health issues. The use of diverse research methods also contributes to the strength of the volume. Although much of the volume is excellent, there are also several omissions within the text that concern us. Although there are some areas that could be revised and/or expanded upon in future editions. Although this book would certainly be useful to those in medical health professions, we believe that anyone involved in LGBT scholarship or activism could benefit from reading it. Even if the issues may not personally affect the reader, a greater knowledge of these health issues could definitely benefit both activists and scholars in future work with LGBT individuals and communities. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: lesbian; gay; bisexual health; color; suicidality; sexual identity; heterosexual women; Bisexuality; Color; Homosexuality; Lesbianism; Transsexualism; Feminism; Heterosexuality; Suicidality

Who's Gay? Does It Matter? - Savin-Williams, Ritch C. (Current Directions in Psychological Science, 2006)
To answer the question 'Who's gay?'--and its logical follow-up, 'Does it matter?'--researchers usually define homosexuality with reference to one of three components or expressions of sexual orientation: sexual/romantic attraction or arousal, sexual behavior, and sexual identity. Yet, the three components are imperfectly correlated and inconsistently predictive of each other, resulting in dissimilar conclusions regarding the number and nature of homosexual populations. Depending on which component is assessed, the prevalence rate of homosexuality in the general population ranges from 1 to 21%. When investigators define the homosexual population based on same-sex behavior or identity, they enhance the possibility of finding a biological basis for homosexuality and a compromised mental health (suicidality). (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: gays; homosexuality; sexual orientation; sexual attraction; romantic attraction; sexual behavior; sexual identity; suicidality; Gender Identity; Homosexuality; Psychosexual Behavior; Sexual Attraction; Sexual Orientation; Romance; Suicidal Ideation; Suicidality

Sexual identity, psychological well-being and suicide risk among lesbian and gay young people - Walker, Peter Huw (Educational and Child Psychology, 2001)
Five lesbians (aged 21–25 yrs) and 9 gay men (aged 19–22 yrs) participated in a semi-structured interview study looking at psychological well-being within the context of developing a lesbian or gay identity. Particular attention was paid to suicidal ideas and parasuicide. Data were analyzed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (J. A. Smith, 1996) which revealed 10 main themes, of which 2 are highlighted as being relevant to providers of services for young lesbians and gay men, namely, coping strategies for dealing with negative reactions to disclosure and feelings of isolation. Recommendations are made regarding the provision of services to support and develop the psychological well-being of lesbian and gay young people. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: lesbians; gay men; psychological well-being; sexual identity; suicide risk; parasuicide; Attempted Suicide; Homosexuality; Psychosexual Development; Suicide; Well Being; At Risk Populations; Lesbianism; Male Homosexuality

An examination of DSM-IV-TR risk factors and environmental risk factors for suicidal ideation among college students - Shtayermman, Oren; Reilly, Brigette E.; Knight, Kim L. (Best Practices in Mental Health: An International Journal, 2012)
This study examined the risk factors for suicidal ideation in a sample of 493 college students. The study explored the association of suicidal ideation with: sociodemographics, major depressive disorder, level of depressive symptomatology, generalized anxiety disorder, level of anxiety symptomatology, degree of overt victimization, degree of relational victimization, degree of receiving prosocial behavior, and total degree of peer victimization. Eleven percent of the sample had clinically significant levels of suicidal ideation, 4 percent met the criteria for dysthmia, and 4.4 percent and 5.3 percent met the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (4th ed., text rev.; American Psychiatric Association, 2000) criteria for a diagnosis of major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder, respectfully. In addition, 9.6 percent met the diagnostic criteria for alcohol dependence and 4.6 percent met the diagnostic criteria for drug abuse. High levels of suicidal ideation were more likely to be associated with those who identified themselves as homosexual/bisexual/or other as compared to heterosexual. Overall, 33 percent of the variance was explained in suicidal ideation, with depression and anxiety factors accounting for 23 percent of the variance. A final trimmed model of hierarchical linear regression indicated that the presence of social support moderated levels of suicidal ideation with regard to age, marital status, sexual orientation, and anxiety symptoms. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: DSM-IV-TR risk factors; environmental risk factors; suicidal ideation; college students; diagnostic and statistical manual; College Students; Diagnostic and Statistical Manual; Environmental Effects; Risk Factors; Suicidal Ideation

The effects of bullying and peer victimization on sexual-minority and heterosexual youths: A quantitative meta-analysis of the literature - Fedewa, Alicia L.; Ahn, Soyeon (Journal of GLBT Family Studies, 2011)
[Correction Notice: An erratum for this article was reported in Vol 8(2) of Journal of GLBT Family Studies (see record [rid]2012-08902-006[/rid]). In the original article, several statistical errors have been reported: On p. 409 (k, number of effect sizes), psychological outcomes for suicidal ideation and suicidal attempt should be 3 and 5, respectively. On p. 410, confidence intervals (CIs) for hostile school climates should be 1.17 and 1.39; CIs for lack of social support should be 1.29 and 2.24. On p. 411, confidence intervals (CIs) for age should be flipped in Table 4: correct CIs for r under 17 years old are .29 and .40 and CIs for r over 17 years old are .10 and .19.] This study is a comprehensive, quantitative synthesis of the literature examining the effects of homophobic bullying on both sexual-minority and heterosexual youths’ psychological outcomes. The final analysis included 16 published and 2 unpublished studies from around the world, totaling 81 effect sizes. Various study characteristics were coded to assess moderator effects, but only age of youth was found to play a significant role between bullying and detrimental outcomes for youths. Results demonstrated that sexual-minority youths experience significantly more bullying and victimization than do heterosexual peers and that these hostile experiences contribute to a number of negative outcomes for sexual-minority youths. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: victimization; peer relation; bullying effects; heterosexuality; adolescent development; sexual minority; Adolescent Development; Heterosexuality; Victimization; Bullying; Sexual Minority Groups; Peers

The development of a gender identity psychosocial clinic: Treatment issues, logistical considerations, interdisciplinary cooperation, and future initiatives - Leibowitz, Scott F.; Spack, Norman P. (Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Clinics of North America, 2011)
Few interdisciplinary treatment programs that tend to the needs of youth with gender nonconforming behaviors, expressions, and identities exist in academic medical centers with formal residency training programs. Despite this, the literature provides evidence that these youth have higher rates of poor psychosocial adjustment and suicide attempts. This article explores the logistical considerations involved in developing a specialized interdisciplinary service to these gender minority youth in accordance with the existing treatment guidelines. Demographic data will be presented and treatment issues will be explored. The impact that a specialized interdisciplinary treatment program has on clinical expansion, research development, education and training, and community outreach initiatives is discussed. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2017 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: gender identity; psychosocial clinic development; treatment issues; logistical considerations; interdisciplinary cooperation; future initiatives; Adolescent; Adult; Boston; Child; Child, Preschool; Disorders of Sex Development; Female; Gender Identity; Humans; Infant; Infant, Newborn; Interdisciplinary Communication; Male; Mental Health Services; Psychotherapy; Transsexualism; Young Adult; Clinics; Gender Identity; Initiative; Psychosocial Development; Cooperation; Treatment

Developmental and adjustment issues of gay, lesbian, and bisexual adolescents: A review of the empirical literature - Anhalt, Karla; Morris, Tracy L. (Clinical Child and Family Psychology Review, 1998)
Various studies have reported adjustment problems experienced by gay, lesbian, and bisexual (GLB) adolescents. A primary purpose of this paper is to critically review this literature. Difficulties that have been studied include past suicide attempts, substance use and abuse, conduct problems, and academic concerns. For example, a considerable number of GLB youth report a history of suicide attempts, with prevalence rates ranging from 11 to 42%. However, among other methodological concerns, studies in this area have not used a comparison sample of heterosexual youths. Characteristics of development particular to GLB adolescents are described, the empirical research on adjustment issues is reviewed, and potential risk and protective factors for GLB youths are discussed. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: developmental & adjustment issues of gay & lesbian & bisexual adolescents; Adaptation, Psychological; Adjustment Disorders; Adolescent; Female; Gender Identity; Homosexuality, Female; Homosexuality, Male; Humans; Interpersonal Relations; Male; Psychology, Adolescent; Risk Factors; Adjustment; Adolescent Development; Bisexuality; Homosexuality; Psychosocial Development; Academic Achievement

Mental health and the Army - Hill, Brandon J.; Barnett, Joshua Trey (JAMA Psychiatry, 2014)
Comments on an articles by Ronald C.Kessler et al.(see record [rid]2014-26167-004[/rid]), by Matthew K.Nock et al. (see record [rid]2014-26167-005[/rid]) and by Michael Schoenbaum et al. (see record [rid]2014-26167-003[/rid]). The commentators read with interest a series of reports by Schoenbaum et al., Kessler et al., and Nock et al. but wondered where gender identity disorder (GID) fits in the picture. The authors described the predictors, prevalence, and correlates of suicidal risk, ideation, and behavior among service members who completed the Army Study to Assess Risk and Resilience in Service members (Army STARRS). These reports concluded that, given the large proportion of post-enlistment suicide attempts, pre-enlistment mental disorders might be targets for screening for suicidality and potential motivations for intervention. According to Kessler et al., there is reason to believe that comorbidity is likely to influence suicide risk and specific subpopulations may have elevated risks. While the Army STARRS studies on suicide conclude that preenlistment mental disorders might be better screened, an alternative strategy to reduce the risk for suicide among postenlistment service members may include changing policies to allow transgender men and women, including those with GID, to openly serve in the US military. Doing so might help reduce suicide risk among a currently hidden population that is likely to contribute to the elevated statistics of suicide risk, ideation, ideation, and behavior, yet is unable to seek treatment and openly serve under current military policies. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: gender identity disorder; suicidal risk; suicide attempts; mental health disorders; comorbidity; Army; military policies; onset; Army Study to Assess Risk and Resilience in Service members; Accidents, Occupational; Afghan Campaign 2001-; Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders; Female; Humans; Iraq War, 2003-2011; Male; Mental Disorders; Military Personnel; Resilience, Psychological; Risk Assessment; Suicide; Suicide, Attempted; Army Personnel; Mental Disorders; Mental Health; Suicide; Gender Dysphoria; Attempted Suicide; Comorbidity; Onset (Disorders); Policy Making; Risk Factors

Lesbian, gay, and bisexual youth in community settings: Personal challenges and mental health problems - D'Augelli, Anthony R.; Hershberger, Scott L. (American Journal of Community Psychology, 1993)
Studied 194 lesbian, gay, and bisexual youth (aged 15–21 yrs) who attended programs in 14 community centers to determine the personal challenges they face due to their sexual orientation and their responses to these stresses. First awareness of sexual orientation typically occurred at age 10 yrs, but disclosure to another person did not occur until about age 16. There was much variability in sexual behavior, and many youths reported both same-sex and opposite-sex experiences. Although most had told at least 1 family member about their sexual orientation, there remained much concern about family reactions. Suicide attempts were acknowledged by 42%. Attempters significantly differed from nonattempters on several milestones. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: personal challenges & responses to stress & mental health problems; lesbian or gay or bisexual 15–21 yr olds; Adaptation, Psychological; Adolescent; Adult; Bisexuality; Female; Homosexuality; Humans; Male; Mental Disorders; Problem Solving; Risk Factors; Self Disclosure; Self-Help Groups; Social Environment; Social Support; Suicide; Suicide, Attempted; Coping Behavior; Male Homosexuality; Mental Health; Stress; Bisexuality; Lesbianism

HIV infection and suicide risk: An epidemiological inquiry among male homosexuals in Switzerland - Cochand, P.; Bovet, P. (Social Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology: The International Journal for Research in Social and Genetic Epidemiology and Mental Health Services, 1998)
Conflicting results have been published about suicidality among HIV+ subjects; part to the alleged increased risk may be linked to premorbid risk factors such as drug addiction and homosexuality. In order to cope with these confounding factors, the authors assessed the degree of suicidal ideation in a sample of Swiss male homo- and bisexuals (aged 22–66 yrs), comparing HIV- and HIV+ subjects. 164 subjects returned a self-administered, home-completed questionnaire which had been circulated among homosexuals in the French speaking part of Switzerland. Suicidal ideation was assessed through Poldinger's scale. Serostatus was known for 149 subjects, among whom 65 were HIV+. A high rate of suicide attempts was found among homosexuals, both HIV- and HIV+. Scores on Poldinger's scale were significantly, though moderately, higher among HIV+ subjects, and this finding seems to be a direct consequence of HIV infection. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: HIV infection & suicide risk; 22–66 yr old male homo- & bisexuals; Adult; Aged; Cross-Sectional Studies; HIV Infections; Homosexuality, Male; Humans; Incidence; Male; Middle Aged; Risk; Suicide; Switzerland; At Risk Populations; Epidemiology; HIV; Male Homosexuality; Suicidal Ideation; Bisexuality

Review of Cultural diversity and suicide: Ethnic, religious, gender, and sexual orientation perspectives - Floyd, Rebecca M. (Journal of Gay & Lesbian Mental Health, 2010)
Reviews the book, Cultural Diversity and Suicide: Ethnic, Religious, Gender, and Sexual Orientation Perspectives by M. M. Leach (see record [rid]2006-21976-000[/rid]). Mark Leach provides assistance to clinicians in sorting through known suicide risk factors and helps to build a model for better understanding multiple identities and suicide risk. Further, a simple list of risk factors does not provide the level of specificity needed by clinicians to thoroughly understand their clients' risk potential and to guide the focus of intervention. Although recognizing that there are limits to a mental health practitioner's approach to the subject of religion and the need for consultation with community religious leaders and scholars, Leach could have more clearly outlined an approach to discussing the impact of one's religious views, background, or involvement on mental health. These weaknesses aside, this book provides an excellent first step in better identifying and managing suicide risk among clients with multiple identities and should be applauded for its inclusion of sexual minorities in the mix. It represents an advancement of the literature on suicide and culture by addressing the implications of this literature for clinical practice. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2020 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: cultural diversity; suicide; ethnicity; religiosity; sexual orientation; human sex differences; Cross Cultural Differences; Ethnic Identity; Religiosity; Sexual Orientation; Suicide; Human Sex Differences; Cultural Diversity

Gay adolescents and suicide: Understanding the association - Kitts, Robert Li (Adolescence, 2005)
Suicide among gay adolescents is a major public health concern, but it is still under-emphasized within mainstream healthcare. This article brings together information garnered from past studies, articles, and experiences to create a more in-depth understanding of why gay adolescents are at a higher risk for suicide. By creating a better understanding, this article attempts to push forward the significance of this issue and encourages physicians to take a more active role in suicide prevention. The article initially explores why issues involving homosexuality are seldom discussed and provides evidence for an increased risk in suicide among gay adolescents. By addressing major psychosocial issues faced by gay adolescents, it spends the majority of time facilitating an understanding of the increased risk. In this article 'gay' refers to homosexual males and females, and bisexuals unless otherwise indicated. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: gay adolescents; suicide risk; health concern; suicide prevention; homosexuality; Adolescent; Depression; Female; Homosexuality, Female; Homosexuality, Male; Humans; Male; Psychology, Adolescent; Risk Factors; Stress, Psychological; Suicide; Homosexuality; Public Health; Suicide; Suicide Prevention

Links between past abuse, suicide ideation, and sexual orientation among San Diego college students - Garcia, Jacob; Adams, Joyce; Friedman, Lawrence; East, Patricia (Journal of American College Health, 2002)
Examined relationships among childhood abuse, suicidal ideation, and sexual orientation among college students. 138 college students (aged 18-30 yrs) completed questionnaires concerning: (1) current living situation; (2) parents' occupation; (3) drug/alcohol/tobacco use; (4) suicide/abuse history; (5) sexual activity; and (6) contraceptive use. Results show that 22% of subject (Ss) were self-identified gay/bisexual individuals. Females were more likely than males to report at least 1 form of emotional abuse and unwanted sexual touching. Lesbian/bisexual females were significantly more likely to report past suicidal ideation than were heterosexual females. Gay/bisexual males were more likely to report unwanted sexual touching than were heterosexual males, but males did not report significantly higher rates of past suicide ideation or suicide attempts. It is concluded that sexual orientation and past history of child sexual, physical, and emotional abuse may be compounding risk factors for suicidal ideation among college students. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: childhood abuse; suicidal ideation; sexual orientation; college students; living situation; parental occupation; drug & alcohol & tobacco usage; sexual activity; contraception; Adolescent; Adult; California; Child Abuse, Sexual; Child, Preschool; Female; Humans; Male; Sexual Behavior; Students; Suicide; Surveys and Questionnaires; Universities; Child Abuse; College Students; Sexual Orientation; Suicidal Ideation; Alcohol Drinking Patterns; Birth Control; Drug Usage; Living Arrangements; Parental Occupation; Psychosexual Behavior; Tobacco Smoking

Suicidal behavior and gay-related stress among gay and bisexual male adolescents - Rotheram-Borus, Mary Jane; Hunter, Joyce; Rosario, Margaret (Journal of Adolescent Research, 1994)
Examined the relationship between stress and attempted suicide in a consecutive series of 138 self-identified gay and bisexual males (aged 14–19 yrs), presenting at a social service agency for lesbian and gay adolescents in New York City. Ss were interviewed and completed the Adolescent Life Events Scale. 39% of the Ss had attempted suicide, and of those who had attempted, more than one-half had tried to kill themselves more than once. Suicide attempters were more likely to have dropped out of school, to live outside their homes, and to have friends or relatives who attempted suicide. Gay-related stressors were significantly more common among suicide attempters compared with nonattempters, but general life stress was not higher. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: stress & attempted suicide; gay & bisexual 14–19 yr old males; Attempted Suicide; Bisexuality; Male Homosexuality; Stress; Suicide

Desorption electrospray tandem MS (DESI-MSMS) analysis of methyl centralite and ethyl centralite as gunshot residues on skin and other surfaces - Zhao, Mengxia; Zhang, Sichun; Yang, Chengdui; Xu, Yucai; Wen, Yuxiu; Sun, Lianshan; Zhang, Xinrong (Journal of Forensic Sciences, 2008)
A direct and sensitive method for the detection of methyl centralite (MC) and ethyl centralite (EC) as gunshot residues (GSRs) has been developed. This method uses desorption electrospray ionization (DESI)-tandem mass spectrometry and directly desorbs and detects analytes from surfaces without any sampling process. Typical transitions for MC and EC, m/z 241 to m/z 134 and m/z 269 to m/z 148, respectively, were used to improve the assay sensitivity. It has been shown that MC and EC can be detected on various surfaces, with detection limits of 5–70 pg/cm². Interferences, detection time after shooting and the number of times hands were washed after shooting were also evaluated. None of the materials interfered with the results and the detection window for organic GSRs was up to 12 h and hands could be washed at least six times. Further samples were analyzed to confirm the reliability of this method, and showed that it could discriminate shooters from nonshooters. This method should be of significance in forensic science, especially in analyzing GSRs, because of its simplicity, high throughput, and the direct detection of MC and EC on suspects’ hands, clothes, and hair. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: desorption electrospray tandem MS; methyl centralite; ethyl centralite; gunshot residues; forensic evaluation; Firearms; Forensic Evaluation

Homosexuality and risk for psychiatric disorders - Alexander, Christopher J. (Journal of Gay & Lesbian Social Services: Issues in Practice, Policy & Research, 2002)
Notes that social science researchers have traditionally found it difficult to obtain representative samples of gay men and lesbians. Still, this has not prevented some from making broad conclusions about the lives and mental status of homosexuals as a group. Two separate national studies, the first by S. E. Gilman, et al (see record [rid]2001-07042-011[/rid]), and the second by S. T. Russell and K. Joyner (see record [rid]2001-11263-004[/rid]) examined sexual attitudes and behaviors of adults and adolescents. Collectively, the sample size of males and females surveyed in these studies is in the thousands. Because the subjects in both studies were randomly selected, the findings were based on persons with a wide spectrum of sexual attitudes and behaviors. The current author argues that in many respects, these studies confirm some of the data from smaller studies. That is, homosexual orientation can be a risk factor for psychiatric disturbance for some men and women. In addition, adolescents struggling with issues related to sexual orientation are two times more likely than their peers to consider or attempt suicide. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: homosexuality; risk; psychiatric disorders; gay men; lesbians; sexual attitudes; sexual behaviors; adolescents; suicide; homosexual orientation; Homosexuality; Mental Disorders; Risk Factors; Sexual Orientation; Suicide; Lesbianism; Male Homosexuality; Sexual Attitudes

Social exclusion, absenteeism and sexual minority youth - Rivers, Ian (Support for Learning, 2000)
Compared 2 groups of lesbian, gay and bisexual adults (N = 190; mean age 28 yrs) who reported having been subjected to anti-lesbian/gay abuse at school. The 1st group recalled a history of absenteeism at school while the 2nd group, although experiencing similar levels of harassment, reported attending school on a regular basis. The findings suggest an association between the experience of harassment and a history of absenteeism and an ideation of self-harm and suicide while at school. The author proposes that anti-harassment initiatives be set up to ensure a safe environment in which sexual minority youth can learn. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2020 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: social exclusion & absenteeism from school; lesbian & gay & bisexual adults (mean age 28 yrs); Bisexuality; Lesbianism; Male Homosexuality; School Attendance; Social Discrimination; Sexual Minority Groups; Social Exclusion

Sex, race/ethnicity, and romantic attractions: Multiple minority status adolescents and mental health - Consolacion, Theodora B.; Russell, Stephen T.; Sue, Stanley (Cultural Diversity and Ethnic Minority Psychology, 2004)
This study examined the association between multiple minority statuses and reports of suicidal thoughts, depression, and self-esteem among adolescents. Data from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health were used to examine mental health outcomes across racial/ethnic groups for same-sex-attracted youths and female youths. Hispanic/Latino, African American, and White female adolescents reported more suicidal thoughts, higher depression, and lower self-esteem compared with male adolescents in their racial/ethnic group. Same-sex-attracted youths did not consistently demonstrate compromised mental health across racial/ethnic groups. Follow-up analyses show that White same-sex-attracted female adolescents reported the most compromised mental health compared with other White adolescents. However, similar trends were not found for racial/ethnic minority female youths with same-sex attractions. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: multiple minority status; suicidal thoughts; depression; self-esteem; adolescents; racial and ethnic differences; same-sex-attracted youths; sex differences; mental health; Adolescent; Courtship; Cross-Cultural Comparison; Cross-Sectional Studies; Depressive Disorder; Ethnic Groups; European Continental Ancestry Group; Female; Homosexuality, Female; Homosexuality, Male; Humans; Love; Male; Minority Groups; Prejudice; Risk Factors; Self Concept; Suicide, Attempted; Adolescent Development; Mental Health; Minority Groups; Racial and Ethnic Differences; Sexual Orientation; Human Sex Differences; Major Depression; Romance; Self-Esteem; Suicidal Ideation

Identifying risk factors for gay and lesbian suicidal behavior: Implications for mental health counselors - McBee, Sandra M.; Rogers, James R. (Journal of Mental Health Counseling, 1997)
This article briefly reviews the literature on suicidal behavior in gay and lesbian populations. Suicide risk factors including previous attempts, substance abuse, family dysfunction, social ties, and social inequity are presented and discussed. Implications for mental health counselors are suggested and discussed in terms of competency, intervention, and sociopolitical activism. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2017 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: suicide risk factors; lesbians & gay males; literature review; implications for mental health counselors; At Risk Populations; Lesbianism; Literature Review; Male Homosexuality; Suicide

Psychiatric comorbidity among patients with gender identity disorder - Hoshiai, Masahiko; Matsumoto, Yosuke; Sato, Toshiki; Ohnishi, Masaru; Okabe, Nobuyuki; Kishimoto, Yuki; Terada, Seishi; Kuroda, Shigetoshi (Psychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences, 2010)
Aims: Psychiatric comorbidity and mental instability seem to be important unfavorable prognostic factors for long-term psychosocial adjustment in gender identity disorder (GID). However, psychiatric comorbidity in patients with GID has rarely been assessed. In this study, we investigated the psychiatric comorbidity and life events of patients with GID in Japan. Methods: A total of 603 consecutive patients were evaluated independently by at least two senior psychiatrists at the GID clinic using clinical information and results of examinations. Results: Using DSM-IV criteria, 579 patients (96.0%) were diagnosed with GID. Among the GID patients, 349 (60.3%) were the female-to-male (FTM) type, and 230 (39.7%) were the male-to-female (MTF) type. Current psychiatric comorbidity was 19.1% (44/230) among MTF patients and 12.0% (42/349) among FTM patients. The lifetime positive history of suicidal ideation and self mutilation was 76.1% and 31.7% among MTF patients, and 71.9% and 32.7% among FTM patients. Among current psychiatric diagnoses, adjustment disorder (6.7%, 38/579) and anxiety disorder (3.6%, 21/579) were relatively frequent. Mood disorder was the third most frequent (1.4%, 8/579). Conclusions: Comparison with previous reports on the psychiatric comorbidity among GID patients revealed that the majority of GID patients had no psychiatric comorbidity. GID is a diagnostic entity in its own right, not necessarily associated with severe comorbid psychological findings. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: psychiatric comorbidity; gender identity disorder; Adjustment Disorders; Adult; Anxiety Disorders; Comorbidity; Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders; Female; Gender Identity; Humans; Male; Mental Disorders; Prognosis; Self Mutilation; Suicide; Transsexualism; Young Adult; Comorbidity; Mental Disorders; Gender Dysphoria

Distress and Depression in Men Who Have Sex With Men: The Urban Men's Health Study - Mills, Thomas C.; Paul, Jay; Stall, Ron; Pollack, Lance; Canchola, Jesse; Chang, Y. Jason; Moskowitz, Judith T.; Catania, Joseph A. (The American Journal of Psychiatry, 2004)
This study estimates the prevalence of depression and describes the correlates and independent associations of distress and depression among U.S. men who have sex with men. A household-based probability sample of men who have sex with men (N=2,881) was interviewed between 1996 and 1998 in four large American cities. With cutoff points of 15 and 22 for the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale, individual correlates and predictors of distress and depression were examined, and multinomial logistic regression was performed. The 7-day prevalence of depression in men who have sex with men was 17.2%, higher than in adult U.S. men in general. Both distress and depression were associated with lack of a domestic partner; not identifying as gay, queer, or homosexual; experiencing multiple episodes of antigay violence in the previous 5 years; and very high levels of community alienation. Depression was also associated with histories of attempted suicide, child abuse, and recent sexual dysfunction. Being HIV positive was correlated with distress and depression but not significantly when demographic characteristics, developmental history, substance use, sexual behavior, and current social context were controlled by logistic regression. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: distress; depression; homosexuality; bisexuality; sexual relations; men; gay; queer; Adolescent; Adult; Aged; Depressive Disorder, Major; HIV Seropositivity; Homosexuality, Male; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Prevalence; Sampling Studies; Severity of Illness Index; Urban Population; Bisexuality; Distress; Homosexuality; Major Depression

Family and Community Influences on the Social and Sexual Lives of Latino Gay Men - Guarnero, Peter A. (Journal of Transcultural Nursing, 2007)
The purpose of this study was to explore the effect of family and community on the social and sexual lives of a group of Latino gay men living in a metropolitan area. A secondary analysis of four focus groups with 28 Latino gay men was conducted. Families had a difficult time acknowledging and supporting participants' homosexuality. Participants experienced racism, discrimination, and physical and verbal abuse as a result of their ethnicity and homosexuality. These negative effects contributed to their marginalization and made them vulnerable to depression and suicide. Health care professionals should be aware of the effect of family and culture on the social and sexual lives of Latino gay men so that they can intervene and direct the client to the services needed to manage depression, suicidal ideation, and high-risk sexual behavior. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: family; community influences; social sexual lives; Latino gay men; metropolitan area; homosexuality; sexual behavior; Adaptation, Psychological; Attitude to Health; Bisexuality; Depression; Family; Focus Groups; Gender Identity; Hispanic Americans; Homosexuality, Male; Humans; Male; Nurse's Role; Nursing Methodology Research; Prejudice; Qualitative Research; Self Concept; Self Disclosure; Semantics; Shame; Social Alienation; Social Behavior; Social Values; Suicide; Transsexualism; United States; Urban Population; Communities; Family; Male Homosexuality; Psychosexual Behavior; Socialization; Latinos/Latinas

Gifted and gay: A study of the adolescent experience - Peterson, Jean Sunde; Rischar, Heather (Gifted Child Quarterly, 2000)
This exploratory and mostly qualitative study examined the adolescent experience of 18 high-ability gay, lesbian, or bisexual (GLB) individuals (aged 18–25 yrs), through a retospective look at school and family experiences from grades 5–12, in order to better understand the development of gifted GLB adolescents. In narrative responses to an extended questionnaire, the results show significant themes of danger, isolation, depression, and suicidal ideation, together with high achievement and extreme involvement in activities. Participants described personal responses to wondering about sexual orientation, being convinced, and eventually coming out, and the effects on school and family relationships. Half reported awareness by the end of elementary school, and almost all were convinced by grade 11. Most participants offered suggestions for educators in general and for those involved in gifted programs, and many of the suggestions have implications for staff development. A copy of the questionnaire used in this study is appended. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: adolescent experience & development; 18–25 yr old gifted gay & lesbian & bisexual individuals; Adolescent Development; Experiences (Events); Gifted; Homosexuality; Bisexuality; Lesbianism

Well-being among same-sex- and opposite-sex-attracted youth at school - Rivers, Ian; Noret, Nathalie (School Psychology Review, 2008)
In this study, 53 students who reported being solely or primarily attracted to members of the same sex were matched with 53 peers who reported being attracted solely to members of the opposite sex on various demographic factors as well as exposure to bullying at school. Data relating to tobacco and alcohol use, drug use, health risk behaviors, concerns and sources of social support, interpersonal sensitivity, depression, anxiety, hostility, suicide ideation, loneliness, and concentration were analyzed. Results indicated that same-sex-attracted students reported drinking alcohol alone more than opposite-sex-attracted peers; however, they were no more likely to engage in health-risk behaviors, or use Class 1 and 2 drugs. They were more likely to report being worried about being lesbian or gay, and were more likely to seek support from a member of school staff than opposite-sex-attracted peers. In terms of psychological well-being, same-sex-attracted students scored significantly higher on a hostility subscale when compared to opposite-sex-attracted peers and were more likely to report feeling lonely. These results suggest that the management of reactive aggression or hostility toward others may be a key determinant of healthy gay, lesbian, and bisexual development. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2020 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: well-being; same-sex-attracted youth; opposite-sex-attracted youth; schools; demographic factors; bullying; Demographic Characteristics; Homosexuality; Schools; Well Being; Bullying; Health; Peers

Attempted and completed suicide in adolescence - Spirito, Anthony; Esposito-Smythers, Christianne (Annual Review of Clinical Psychology, 2006)
Suicide is the third leading cause of death in adolescence, and medically serious suicide attempts occur in approximately 3% of adolescents. This review examines a number of risk factors that contribute to suicidal behavior. A prior suicide attempt is one of the best predictors of both a repeat attempt and eventual completed suicide. Depression, disruptive behavior disorders, and substance-use disorders also place adolescents at high risk for suicidal behavior, with comorbidity further increasing risk. Research on families indicates that suicidal behavior is transmitted through families. Groups at high risk for suicidal behavior include gay, lesbian, and bisexual youths, incarcerated adolescents, and homeless/runaway teens. Although abnormalities in the serotonergic system have not been consistently linked to suicidal behavior, genetic and neurobiologic studies suggest that impulsive aggression may be the mechanism through which decreased serotonergic activity is related to suicidal behavior. Findings from prevention and intervention studies are modest and indicate the need for substantially more theory-driven treatment research. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: attempted suicide; completed suicide; adolescence; risk factors; suicidal behavior; Adolescent; Adolescent Behavior; Cause of Death; Female; Homeless Youth; Humans; Life Change Events; Male; Mood Disorders; Prisoners; Recurrence; Risk Factors; Sexual Behavior; Substance Withdrawal Syndrome; Suicide; Suicide, Attempted; Treatment Outcome; At Risk Populations; Attempted Suicide; Risk Factors; Suicide

A report from a single institute's 14-year experience in treatment of male-to-female transsexuals - Imbimbo, Ciro; Verze, Paolo; Palmieri, Alessandro; Longo, Nicola; Fusco, Ferdinando; Arcaniolo, Davide; Mirone, Vincenzo (Journal of Sexual Medicine, 2009)
Introduction. Gender identity disorder or transsexualism is a complex clinical condition, and prevailing social context strongly impacts the form of its manifestations. Sex reassignment surgery (SRS) is the crucial step of a long and complex therapeutic process starting with preliminary psychiatric evaluation and culminating in definitive gender identity conversion. Aim. The aim of our study is to arrive at a clinical and psychosocial profile of male-to-female transsexuals in Italy through analysis of their personal and clinical experience and evaluation of their postsurgical satisfaction levels SRS. Methods. From January 1992 to September 2006, 163 male patients who had undergone gender-transforming surgery at our institution were requested to complete a patient satisfaction questionnaire. Main Outcome Measures. The questionnaire consisted of 38 questions covering nine main topics: general data, employment status, family status, personal relationships, social and cultural aspects, presurgical preparation, surgical procedure, and postsurgical sex life and overall satisfaction. Results. Average age was 31 years old. Seventy-two percent had a high educational level, and 63% were steadily employed. Half of the patients had contemplated suicide at some time in their lives before surgery and 4% had actually attempted suicide. Family and colleague emotional support levels were satisfactory. All patients had been adequately informed of surgical procedure beforehand. Eighty-nine percent engaged in postsurgical sexual activities. Seventy-five percent had a more satisfactory sex life after SRS, with main complications being pain during intercourse and lack of lubrication. Seventy-eight percent were satisfied with their neovagina's esthetic appearance, whereas only 56% were satisfied with depth. Almost all of the patients were satisfied with their new sexual status and expressed no regrets. Conclusions. Our patients' high level of satisfaction was due to a combination of a well-conducted preoperative preparation program, competent surgical skills, and consistent postoperative follow-up. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: male to female transsexualism; vaginoplasty; Patient’s Satisfaction Questionnaire; sex reassignment surgery; gender identity disorders; transsexual; Adult; Clinical Competence; Gender Identity; Genitalia, Male; Humans; Italy; Male; Middle Aged; Patient Satisfaction; Penis; Personal Satisfaction; Psychometrics; Sexuality; Surveys and Questionnaires; Time Factors; Transsexualism; Treatment Outcome; Urogenital Surgical Procedures; Young Adult; Client Satisfaction; Transsexualism; Gender Dysphoria; Gender Reassignment

Nonsuicidal self-injury in a college population: General trends and sex differences - Whitlock, Janis; Muehlenkamp, Jennifer; Purington, Amanda; Eckenrode, John; Barreira, Paul; Baral Abrams, Gina; Marchell, Tim; Kress, Victoria; Girard, Kristine; Chin, Calvin; Knox, Kerry (Journal of American College Health, 2011)
Objective: To describe basic nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) characteristics and to explore sex differences. Methods: A random sample from 8 universities were invited to participate in a Web-based survey in 2006-2007; 38.9% (n = 14,372) participated. Analysis assessed sex differences in NSSI prevalence, practices, severity, perceived dependency, and help-seeking; adjusted odds ratios for NSSI characteristics were calculated by sex status. Results: Lifetime NSSI prevalence rates averaged 15.3%. Females were more likely than males to self-injure because they were upset (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 1.6; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.3-2.1) or in hopes that someone would notice them (AOR = 1.6, 95% CI = 1.1-2.7). Males were 1.6 times (95% CI = 1.2-2.2) more likely to report anger and 4.0 times (95% CI = 2.3-6.8) more likely to report intoxication as an initiating factor. Sexual orientation predicted NSSI, particularly for women (Wald F = 8.81, p ≤ .000). Only 8.9% of the NSSI sample reported disclosing NSSI to a mental health professional. Conclusions: NSSI is common in college populations but varies significantly by sex and sexual orientation. NSSI disclosure is low among both sexes. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: nonsuicidal self injury practice & severity; college students; trends; sex differences; sexual orientation; dependency; help seeking; Adolescent; Adult; Alcoholic Intoxication; Anger; Female; Health Services Needs and Demand; Homosexuality; Humans; Logistic Models; Male; Self-Injurious Behavior; Sex Factors; Students; Surveys and Questionnaires; United States; Universities; Young Adult; College Students; Human Sex Differences; Self-Injurious Behavior; Dependency (Personality); Help Seeking Behavior; Sexual Orientation; Trends

Lesbians' Drinking Patterns: Beyond the Data - Hughes, Tonda L. (Substance Use & Misuse, 2003)
Early studies report very high rates of alcohol abuse and alcoholism among lesbians. However, serious methodological problems, including nonrepresentative samples that were often recruited in lesbian or gay lesbian bars, limit the validity of findings from these studies. In this article, I briefly review the literature on lesbians' use of alcohol and present findings from a recent study conducted in Chicago (USA). This study recruited a race- and age-diverse sample of lesbians and a demographically matched group of heterosexual women. Rates of 'heavy' alcohol use and alcohol-use-related problems among lesbians were much lower in this study than in early studies. However, lesbians were more likely than their heterosexual counterparts to be in recovery and to have been in treatment for alcohol-use-related problems. Further, high rates of childhood sexual abuse, depression, and suicidal ideation reported by lesbians suggest that at least some groups may be at heightened risk for heavy drinking and drinking-related problems. Nevertheless, results of this and other studies suggest that reports of heavy drinking and drinking-related problems among lesbians may have been inflated in earlier studies, or that heavy drinking and drinking-related problems may have declined among lesbians. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: lesbians; homosexuality; sexual orientation; alcohol use; substance use; drinking patterns; Adult; Alcoholism; Chicago; Child; Child Abuse, Sexual; Comorbidity; Depressive Disorder; Female; Homosexuality, Female; Humans; Risk Factors; Suicide, Attempted; United States; Urban Population; Alcohol Drinking Patterns; Alcoholism; Lesbianism

Psychological characteristics, stressful life events and deliberate self-harm: Findings from the Child & Adolescent Self-harm in Europe (CASE) Study - Madge, Nicola; Hawton, Keith; McMahon, Elaine M.; Corcoran, Paul; Leo, Diego; Wilde, Erik Jan; Fekete, Sandor; van Heeringen, Kees; Ystgaard, Mette; Arensman, Ella (European Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, 2011)
There is evidence to suggest that both psychological characteristics and stressful life events are contributory factors in deliberate self-harm among young people. These links, and the possibility of a dose–response relationship between self-harm and both psychological health and life events, were investigated in the context of a seven-country school-based study. Over 30,000, mainly 15 and 16 year olds, completed anonymous questionnaires at secondary schools in Belgium, England, Hungary, Ireland, the Netherlands, Norway and Australia. Pupils were asked to report on thoughts and episodes of self-harm, complete scales on depression and anxiety symptoms, impulsivity and self-esteem and indicate stressful events in their lives. Level and frequency of self-harm was judged according to whether they had thought about harming themselves or reported single or multiple self-harm episodes. Multinomial logistic regression assessed the extent to which psychological characteristics and stressful life events distinguished between adolescents with different self-harm histories. Increased severity of self-harm history was associated with greater depression, anxiety and impulsivity and lower self-esteem and an increased prevalence of all ten life event categories. Female gender, higher impulsivity and experiencing the suicide or self-harm of others, physical or sexual abuse and worries about sexual orientation independently differentiated single-episode self-harmers from adolescents with self-harm thoughts only. Female gender, higher depression, lower self-esteem, experiencing the suicide or self-harm of others, and trouble with the police independently distinguished multiple- from single-episode self-harmers. The findings reinforce the importance of psychological characteristics and stressful life events in adolescent self-harm but nonetheless suggest that some factors are more likely than others to be implicated. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2017 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: psychological characteristics; stressful life events; self-harm; cross cultural differences; attempted suicide; Adolescent; Anxiety; Depression; Europe; Female; Humans; Impulsive Behavior; Life Change Events; Logistic Models; Male; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales; Psychology; Self Concept; Self-Injurious Behavior; Sex Factors; Stress, Psychological; Surveys and Questionnaires; Attempted Suicide; Cross Cultural Differences; Life Experiences; Self-Injurious Behavior; Stress

Adolescent suicide and health risk behaviors: Rhode Island's 2007 Youth Risk Behavior Survey - Jiang, Yongwen; Perry, Donald K.; Hesser, Jana E. (American Journal of Preventive Medicine, 2010)
Background: Suicide is the third-leading cause of death among high school students in the U.S. Purpose: This study examined the relationships among indicators of depressed mood, suicidal thoughts, suicide attempts, and demographics and risk behaviors in Rhode Island high school students. Methods: Data from Rhode Island's 2007 Youth Risk Behavior Survey were utilized for this study. The statewide sample contained 2210 randomly selected public high school students. Data were analyzed in 2008 to model for each of five depressed mood/suicide indicators using multivariable logistic regression. Results: By examining depressed mood and suicide indicators through a multivariable approach, the strongest predictors were identified, for multiple as well as specific suicide indicators. These predictors included being female, having low grades, speaking a language other than English at home, being lesbian/gay/bisexual/unsure of sexual orientation, not going to school as a result of feeling unsafe, having been a victim of forced sexual intercourse, being a current cigarette smoker, and having a self-perception of being overweight. Conclusions: The strength of associations between three factors (immigrant status, feeling unsafe, and having forced sex) and suicide indicators adds new information about potential predictors of suicidal behavior in adolescents. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2020 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: adolescent suicide; health risk behaviors; Rhode Island; Youth Risk Behavior Survey; depressed mood; suicidal thoughts; suicide attempts; risk behaviors; Adolescent; Depression; Female; Forecasting; Health Surveys; Humans; Logistic Models; Male; Rhode Island; Risk-Taking; Suicide; Young Adult; Adolescent Attitudes; Attempted Suicide; Health Behavior; Suicide; Risk Assessment; Health Risk Behavior

Predictors of non-suicidal self-injury versus attempted suicide: Similar or different? - Wichstrøm, Lars (Archives of Suicide Research, 2009)
A nationally representative sample of Norwegian high school students (ages 14 to 19, N = 2,924) completed self-reports in school about non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI), suicide attempt (SA), and risk and protective factors. They were re-examined 5 years later. In all 2.2% reported NSSI with no SA during the follow-up period and 3.2% reported SA. Several risk and protective factors were common to NSSI and SA: previous SA, young age, debut of sexual intercourse before the age of 15, and nonheterosexual sexual interest. However, other risk and protective factors were unique to NSSI or SA: Previous NSSI increased the risk for future NSSI whereas satisfaction with social support protected against later NSSI. Suicidal ideation increased the risk for SA whereas attachment to parents protected against it. NSSI did not increase the risk of future SA. NSSI and SA may be thus conceived of as only partly overlapping phenomena, and not necessarily just representing different degrees of suicidality. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2018 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: suicidal self injury; attempted suicide; high school students; risk factors; protective factors; Adolescent; Child; Cross-Sectional Studies; Female; Follow-Up Studies; Humans; Male; Parent-Child Relations; Personal Satisfaction; Prospective Studies; Risk Factors; Self Concept; Self-Injurious Behavior; Sexual Behavior; Social Support; Students; Suicide, Attempted; Surveys and Questionnaires; Young Adult; Protective Factors; Risk Factors; Self-Destructive Behavior; Suicide; Attempted Suicide; High School Students

Sexual orientation and mental health: Results from a community survey of young and middle-aged adults - Jorm, Anthony F.; Korten, Ailsa E.; Rodgers, Bryan; Jacomb, Patricia A.; Christensen, Helen (The British Journal of Psychiatry, 2002)
Community surveys have reported a higher rate of mental health problems in combined groups of homosexual and bisexual participants, but have not separated these 2 groups. This study assessed separately the mental health of homosexual and bisexual groups compared with heterosexuals. A community survey of 4,824 adults (aged 20-24 and 40-44 yrs) was carried out in Canberra, Australia. Measures covered anxiety, depression, suicidality, alcohol misuse, positive and negative affect and a range of risk factors for poorer mental health. Results indicate that the bisexual group was highest on measures of anxiety, depression and negative affect, with the homosexual group falling between the other 2 groups. Both the bisexual and homosexual groups were high on suicidality. Bisexuals also had more current adverse life events, greater childhood adversity, less positive support from family, more negative support from friends and a higher frequency of financial problems. Homosexuals reported greater childhood adversity and less positive support from family. The authors conclude that the bisexual group had the worst mental health, although homosexual participants also tended to report more distress. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: sexual orientation; mental health; young & middle-aged homosexual vs bisexual adults; Australia; distress; suicidality; anxiety; depression; substance abuse; social support; Bisexuality; Homosexuality; Mental Disorders; Mental Health; Suicidality; Anxiety; Distress; Drug Abuse; Major Depression; Social Support; Suicidal Ideation

Adolescent same-sex attraction and mental health: The role of stress and support - Teasdale, Brent; Bradley-Engen, Mindy S. (Journal of Homosexuality, 2010)
This study draws on the social stress model from the sociology of mental health to examine the impact of same-sex attraction on depressed mood and suicidal tendencies. Specifically, we hypothesize that across multiple contexts, adolescents with same-sex attractions are likely to experience more social stress and less social support than heterosexual adolescents. In turn, these experiences increase the likelihood of negative mental health outcomes. Using data from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health (n = 11,911), we find that adolescents with same-sex attraction are more likely than their heterosexual counterparts to report depressed mood and suicidal tendencies. Moreover, stress and social support were found to mediate a substantial part of the relationship between same-sex attraction and depressed mood. In addition, stress and social support mediated about one third of the relationship between same-sex attraction and suicidal tendencies. These findings give strong support for the social stress model. We conclude with a discussion of the role that alienation plays in same-sex-attracted adolescent mental health. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: adolescent same-sex attraction; mental health; social stress; heterosexual adolescents; social support; depressed mood; suicidal tendencies; Adolescent; Affect; Depression; Female; Homosexuality; Humans; Male; Mental Health; Prevalence; Social Support; Stress, Psychological; Suicide; Homosexuality; Mental Health; Social Stress; Social Support; Attempted Suicide; Depression (Emotion); Heterosexuality; Interpersonal Attraction; Suicidal Ideation

Painfully sad stories of bullying: Now what? - Greene, Michael B. (PsycCRITIQUES, 2012)
Reviews the film, Bully directed by Lee Hirsch (2011). Bully is a documentary that portrays the lives of five young people who were chronically bullied. Two of the young people committed suicide. Each story is portrayed from the perspective of the victims, their friends (if they have any), and their families. Within the five stories, there is some diversity by gender (two girls and three boys), by race (one African American the rest White), by age (11 to 16), and by other characteristics that the bullies targeted (geekiness, sexual orientation, and appearance). The self-stated purpose of the film is to raise consciousness about bullying and to start an antibullying movement. The film is engaging, frustrating, and heart-rending. The film is highly successful in illustrating and illuminating not only the pain caused to the victims of bullying but to the victims’ families as well, an aspect of bullying that is not well-addressed in the literature. From statements made by the film’s director and producers, as well as from the tone of the film itself, it is clear that the success of the film should be judged on whether it raises consciousness about the problem of school bullying and, further, whether it changes the way bullying is addressed in schools. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: bullying; school bullying; victims; sexual orientation; physical appearance; family; Victimization; Bullying; Family; Films; Physical Appearance; School Environment; Sexual Orientation

Early-onset tardive dyskinesia in a neuroleptic-naive patient exposed to paliperidone - Hsu, Wen-Yu; Chiu, Nan-Ying (Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology, 2013)
Presents a case report of a 34-year-old single woman, who had auditory hallucination, poor concentration, social withdrawal, religious thought, and queer behavior for 4 months before admission to the psychiatry acute ward. She was brought to our hospital for further treatment. She had no substance history and no major physical illnesses, and there was no specific finding in the laboratory tests. Psychotic disorder was diagnosed, and paliperidone, 9 mg daily, was prescribed. One month later, when her psychotic symptoms improved, she was discharged and followed up in our psychiatry clinic monthly with 9-mg paliperidone treatment daily. Two months after discharge, she presented with psychomotor retardation and muscle rigidity. We added trihexyphenidyl, 2 mg daily, for her EPS. Three months after discharge, she showed moderate tongue TD with 3 points on the tongue item of the Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale (AIMS) for 2 weeks. At the same time, she also had a depressive mood, negative thoughts, and suicidal ideation. We changed antipsychotics by crossover switching. We lowered the dosage of paliperidone and added aripiprazole. In addition, we added escitalopram, 10 mg daily, for her depression. Two weeks after the antidepressant and antipsychotic change, her TD and depression began improving. The tongue item on the AIMS was 1 point and reached 0 points once aripiprazole had been substituted for paliperidone for 2 weeks. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2017 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: tardive dyskinesia; paliperidone; auditory hallucination; suicidal ideation; side effects; Adult; Antipsychotic Agents; Dyskinesia, Drug-Induced; Female; Humans; Isoxazoles; Paliperidone Palmitate; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales; Psychotic Disorders; Pyrimidines; Time Factors; Auditory Hallucinations; Drug Therapy; Side Effects (Drug); Tardive Dyskinesia; Suicidal Ideation

Sexual minority youth and suicide risk - Russell, Stephen T. (American Behavioral Scientist, 2003)
Numerous studies spanning the past quarter century have used varied designs and methods in multiple settings and have consistently demonstrated that sexual minority youth are among those most likely to report suicidality (suicidal thoughts, plans, and attempts). This article reviews the methodological challenges that have defined and limited research in this area, including issues of sampling, the measurement of sexual minority status, and the measurement of suicide risk. Attention is then given to risk and protective factors for suicide among sexual minority youth. Normative risk and protective factors, those common to all youth, and risk and protective factors unique to sexual minority youth are reviewed. In closing, attention is given to the state of suicide prevention and intervention efforts that target sexual minority youth, along with recommendations for further research. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: sexual minority youth; suicide risk; methodological challenges; research; risk factors; protective factors; suicide prevention; suicide intervention; Bisexuality; Lesbianism; Male Homosexuality; Risk Factors; Suicide; At Risk Populations; Experimentation; Methodology; Protective Factors; Suicide Prevention; Sexual Minority Groups

The Effects of Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, and Gender Role on the Mental Health of Women in Taiwan's T-Po Lesbian Community - Kuang, Mei-Fun; Mathy, Robin M.; Carol, Helen M.; Nojima, Kazuhiko (Journal of Psychology & Human Sexuality, 2003)
We obtained via the Internet a convenience sample of Taiwanese heterosexual (n = 287) and sexual minority females (n = 260). A significantly greater percentage of sexual minorities (lesbian and bisexual females) than heterosexuals reported they had used tobacco or alcohol. Relative to heterosexuals, sexual minorities were significantly more likely to report a serious suicide attempt. Overall, gender identity (masculine, feminine, and androgynous) and gender role (butch, femme, and pure or undifferentiated) were poor discriminators of lesbian mental health. Differences between sexual minorities and heterosexuals were more robust than were the variations in gender identities and gender roles among lesbian and bisexual women. We discuss the implications of these findings for further clinical research. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: sexual orientation; gender identity; gender role; mental health; lesbian community; Taiwanese women; Gender Identity; Lesbianism; Mental Health; Sex Roles; Sexual Orientation

Are gay men in worse mental health than heterosexual men? The role of age, shame and guilt, and coming-out - Bybee, Jane A.; Sullivan, Eric L.; Zielonka, Erich; Moes, Elizabeth (Journal of Adult Development, 2009)
Previous studies reporting that gay individuals are in worse mental health than heterosexuals have typically employed young or mixed-age samples, ignoring the role of age. Mental health problems may show greater age related improvement among gay than heterosexual men as indicated by the findings of the present study. In this study, the following indices of mental health are examined, and found to be comparable, among 86 heterosexual and 81 gay men aged 18–48: depression, suicidality, anger, anxiety, negative self-esteem, emotional instability, and lack of emotional responsiveness. Most indices show age-related effects among gay men, with less severe symptoms reported by older individuals. Among heterosexual men, effects of age are less widespread, although older men do report fewer symptoms of anger. Chronic shame and chronic guilt are related to mental health problems and a lessening in shame accounted, in part, for the age-related decline in depression among gay men. Different approaches to disclosing/concealing sexual identity are also linked with shame, guilt, and mental health among gay men. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: gay men; mental health problems; heterosexual men; age; chronic shame; chronic guilt; depression; suicidal ideation; anger; anxiety; self esteem; emotional instability; emotional responsiveness; Age Differences; Heterosexuality; Male Homosexuality; Mental Health; Shame; Anger; Anxiety; Depression (Emotion); Emotional Instability; Guilt; Self-Esteem; Suicidal Ideation

Suicidality in chronic noncancer pain patients - Gilbert, John W.; Wheeler, Greg R.; Storey, Ben B.; Mick, Gregory; Richardson, Gay; Westerfield, Gloria; Broughton, Patricia (International Journal of Neuroscience, 2009)
Patients with chronic pain have high rates of suicide. To examine whether our practice guidelines are effective in decreasing suicidality among chronic noncancer pain patients, we performed a retrospective review. From June 2003 through June 2005, approximately 50,000 patients were subjected to a set of universal precautions for chronic noncancer pain management. Approximately 20% underwent psychological assessments. Fewer than five suicide attempts could be identified, and no patient completed suicide. Our results suggest that universal precautions used in treating chronic noncancer pain patients may help reduce suicidality in this patient population. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: suicidality; chronic pain; noncancer patients; pain management; Chronic Disease; Humans; Longitudinal Studies; Pain; Pain Management; Practice Guidelines as Topic; Retrospective Studies; Risk Assessment; Suicide; Time Factors; Chronic Pain; Suicidal Ideation; Suicide; Suicidality; Neoplasms; Pain Management

Walker, Uncle Will, and I: A homophobe and two queens - Percy, William Armstrong III; Flax-Clarke, Aidan; Gannett, Lewis (Southern Communication Journal, 2009)
The noted novelist Walker Percy (1916–1990) endured the suicides of his grandfather, father, and mother during his childhood. His cousin William Alexander Percy (1885– 1942) adopted Walker and his two brothers following those tragedies. 'Uncle Will' took great interest in the education of his adoptive sons. Walker in particular benefited from this; later in life, Walker and his good boyhood friend, Shelby Foote, who himself was to gain fame as a Civil War historian, speculated that Will Percy’s influence played a major role in the incubation of their literary careers. There is an irony in this. Will Percy, a World War I combat hero, published poet of stature, world traveler, member of the Uranian movement, and author of the classic Southern memoir Lanterns on the Levee (1941), led a piquantly gay life. To present-day sensibilities, Will Percy’s poetry and his memoir emanate a palpable queerness. Yet, Walker Percy denied his benefactor’s homosexuality and indeed, with his brothers, took exhaustive steps to try to conceal that reality. Walker also became a celebrated moralist who expressed a decided aversion to homosexuality. This aspect of the family history exemplifies deletion of queer history in the particular historical context of hereditary Southern gentry with a literary bent in the mid- to late twentieth century. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: homosexuality; gay; suicide; family history; Walker Percy; Homosexuality (Attitudes Toward); Literature; Male Homosexuality; Writers; Family History; History; Suicide

The impact of gender-role nonconforming behavior, bullying, and social support on suicidality among gay male youth - Friedman, Mark S.; Koeske, Gary F.; Silvestre, Anthony J.; Korr, Wynne S.; Sites, Edward W. (Journal of Adolescent Health, 2006)
This study hypothesized that gender-role nonconformity is associated with suicidality, and bullying mediates this relationship. Gay males retrospectively answered questions pertaining to elementary, middle, and high school. Support for the hypotheses was found. Results can help screen gay youth for suicidality and support the need for policies prohibiting harassment based on sexual orientation. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: gay male youth; gender roles; nonconforming behavior; suicidality; bullying; sexual orientation; Adolescent; Adolescent Behavior; Adult; Aggression; Crime Victims; Gender Identity; Homosexuality, Male; Humans; Interpersonal Relations; Male; Sexual Harassment; Social Support; Suicide, Attempted; Gender Identity; Male Homosexuality; Social Support; Suicide; Bullying; Sex Roles; Sexual Orientation; Suicidality

Suicidal ideation, suicide attempts, and HIV infection - Kelly, Brian; Raphael, B.; Judd, F.; Perdices, M.; Kernutt, G.; Burnett, P.; Dunne, M.; Burrows, G. (Psychosomatics: Journal of Consultation and Liaison Psychiatry, 1998)
A cross-sectional study investigated the prevalence and predictors of suicidal ideation (SI) and past suicide attempt in an Australian sample of 164 HIV-positive and 65 HIV-negative homosexual and bisexual men. An SI score was derived from using 5 items from the Beck Depression Inventory and the General Health Questionnaire. Lifetime and current prevalence rates of psychiatric disorder were evaluated with the Diagnostic Interview Schedule Version-III-R. The 85 HIV-positive (CDC Stage IV) men had significantly higher total SI scores than the 79 asymptomatic HIV-positive (CDC Stage II/III) men and the HIV-negative men. High rates of past suicide attempt were detected in the HIV-negative and HIV-positive men. Factors associated with SI included being HIV-positive, the presence of current psychiatric disorder, higher neuroticism scores, external locus of control, and current unemployment. In the HIV-positive group analyzed separately, higher SI was discriminated by the adjustment to HIV diagnosis, disease factors, and background variables (neuroticism). Significant predictors of past attempted suicide were a positive lifetime history of psychiatric disorder, a lifetime history of injection drug use, and a family history of suicide attempts. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: prevalence & predictors of suicidal ideation & suicide attempts; HIV-positive vs HIV-negative homosexual & bisexual males; Adult; Analysis of Variance; Bisexuality; Chi-Square Distribution; Cross-Sectional Studies; Discriminant Analysis; HIV Seronegativity; HIV Seropositivity; Homosexuality, Male; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales; Risk Factors; Suicide, Attempted; Attempted Suicide; Epidemiology; HIV; Suicidal Ideation; Bisexuality; Male Homosexuality

Correcting for continuity in 2 × 2 chi-square tests: Comment on Skagerberg, Parkinson, and Carmichael (2013) - Zucker, Kenneth J. (International Journal of Transgenderism, 2013)
Comments on an article by Elin Skagerberg et al. (see record [rid]2013-28991-004[/rid]). Skagerberg et al. provided data on the percentage of their sample for whom there was evidence of thoughts of self-harm, self-harm, and suicide attempts. They also reported in the text chi-square comparisons for these parameters as a function of natal sex. The chi-square statistics reported in the text on page 89 were incorrect, as Skagerberg et al. did not use the corrected for continuity formula, which is required for 2 × 2 analyses when N > 40. Skagerberg et al. incorrectly reported that the chi-square value of 2.69 was statistically significant at p = .05. It is not. Table C in Segal (1956) indicates that a chi-square value, with df = 1, must be > 3.84 to be statistically significant at p < .05. The correct chi-square value of 1.92 is not statistically significant. The correct chi-square value of 4.10 is significant at p < .05, which is not as strong as the p value that they reported for the incorrect chi-square value of 6.84. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: gender dysphoria; children development; adolescent development; self harming behavior; thoughts; suicide attempts; Attempted Suicide; Self-Injurious Behavior; Thought Disturbances; Gender Dysphoria; Adolescent Development; Childhood Development; Errors; Statistical Analysis

The relationship between suicide risk and sexual orientation: Results of a population-based study - Remafedi, Gary; French, Simone; Story, Mary; Resnick, Michael D.; Blum, Robert (American Journal of Public Health, 1998)
Examined the relationship between sexual orientation and suicide risk in a population-based sample of adolescents. Ss were selected from the 1987 Adolescent Health Survey, a cross-sectional statewide survey of 7th–12th grade public high school students. 212 males and 182 females who described themselves as bisexual/homosexual were compared with 336 gender-matched heterosexual respondents on 3 outcome measures: suicide ideation, intent, and self-reported attempts. Logistic regression analyses were used to examine the association between sexual orientation and outcome measures with adjustment for demographic characteristics. Suicide attempts were reported by 28.1% of bisexual/homosexual males, 20.5% bisexual/homosexual females 14.5% of heterosexual females and 4.2% of heterosexual males. For males, but not females, bisexual/homosexual orientation was associated with suicidal intent and attempts. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: relationship between suicide risk & sexual orientation; 7–12th grade bisexual & homosexual & heterosexual students; Adolescent; Cross-Sectional Studies; Female; Humans; Logistic Models; Male; Minnesota; Odds Ratio; Risk Factors; Sexual Behavior; Suicide; At Risk Populations; Bisexuality; Heterosexuality; Homosexuality; Suicide; High School Students; Junior High School Students

A critique of research on sexual-minority youths - Savin-Williams, Ritch C. (Journal of Adolescence, 2001)
Developmental scientists should seriously reconsider traditional empirical and theoretical paradigms that narrowly define sexual-minority adolescents in terms of those who adopt a culturally defined sexual identity label. A broader consideration of youth populations who have same-sex desires but who might not necessarily identify as gay, lesbian or bisexual, lead one to a very different understanding of sexual-minority youths than is apparent in most published studies. First, they are in most regards just like all other adolescents with similar developmental needs and concerns. Second, they are not a homogeneous group but vary among themselves in predictable ways. Third, this expanded definition allows us to conclude that same-sex attraction per se does not lead to pathology or to problematic behavior such as drug abuse, suicide, prostitution or HIV infection. Indeed, researchers and clinicians should focus on the resiliency that often characterizes sexual-minority youths. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: developmental diversity of sexual-minority adolescents & implications for research; Adolescent; Ethnic Groups; Female; Homosexuality, Female; Homosexuality, Male; Humans; Male; Research; Adolescent Development; Methodology; Minority Groups; Sexual Orientation; Sexual Minority Groups

Sexual orientation and self-harm in men and women - Skegg, Keren; Nada-Raja, Shyamala; Dickson, Nigel; Paul, Charlotte; Williams, Sheila (The American Journal of Psychiatry, 2003)
Recent studies of homosexual people have found higher rates of nonfatal suicidal behavior than among heterosexuals. The purpose of this study was to determine associations between self-harm and sexual orientation for men and women separately, defining sexual orientation by sexual attraction rather than by behavior. In a birth cohort of 1,019 New Zealand young adults eligible to be interviewed at age 26 years, 946 participated in assessments of both sexual attraction and self-harm. Both women and men who had experienced same-sex attraction had higher risks of self-harm. The odds ratios for suicidal ideation in the past year were 3.1 for men and 2.9 for women. Odds ratios for ever having deliberately self-harmed were 5.5 for men and 1.9 for women. Men with same-sex attraction were also significantly more likely to report having attempted suicide. In both sexes, a greater degree of same-sex attraction predicted increasing likelihood of self-harm, with over one-third of men and women with persistent major same-sex attraction reporting this. Men with even a minor degree of same-sex attraction had high rates of self-harm and resulting physical injury. One-quarter of deliberate self-harm among men and one-sixth among women was potentially attributable to same-sex attraction. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: sexual orientation; same sex attraction; self harm; sex differences; at risk; attempted suicide; bisexuality; homosexuality; Adult; Cohort Studies; Comorbidity; Depression; Female; Homosexuality; Homosexuality, Female; Humans; Male; New Zealand; Odds Ratio; Risk Factors; Self-Injurious Behavior; Sex Factors; Sexual Behavior; Substance-Related Disorders; Suicide; Suicide, Attempted; Surveys and Questionnaires; At Risk Populations; Human Sex Differences; Self-Destructive Behavior; Sexual Orientation; Attempted Suicide; Bisexuality; Homosexuality; Interpersonal Attraction

Domestic violence screening: Prevalence and outcomes in a Canadian HIV population - Siemieniuk, Reed A. C.; Krentz, Hartmut B.; Gish, Jessica A.; Gill, M. John (AIDS Patient Care and STDs, 2010)
There is a strong association between domestic violence victimization and HIV infection. This may lead to poor health outcomes including mental health disorders and reduced access to care. A standardized domestic violence screening interview was incorporated into ongoing care in the large and diverse population living with HIV in Southern Alberta, Canada. Results from May through December 2009 are reported, including the prevalence and outcomes of abuse. Thirty-four percent of 853 patients screened reported abuse. Of these, 16% reported abuse in their current relationship, 58% in a previous relationship, and 57% reported a history of childhood abuse. High-risk groups for abuse included females (43%), gay/bisexual males (35%), and Aboriginals (61%). We found an association between a history of domestic violence and delayed access to care (p < 0.05), missed appointments (p < 0.001), and an increased use of clinic resources such as social work (p < 0.0001) and psychiatry (p < 0.001). Mental health conditions prior to HIV diagnosis, including depression (p < 0.0001), suicidal ideation (p < 0.0001), and anxiety disorder (p < 0.0001) were associated with abuse at any time, while a history of adjustment disorder was associated with childhood abuse (p < 0.05). A simple domestic violence screening tool was helpful for identifying patients experiencing abuse in our diverse HIV-infected population. This high prevalence of domestic violence among our HIV patients was associated with poor outcomes and an increased use of medical resources. HIV caregivers should be aware of domestic violence in order to optimize care and refer patients to appropriate support professionals as needed. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: domestic violence screening; HIV infection; prevalence; abuse outcomes; victimization; Adult; Alberta; Counseling; Domestic Violence; Female; HIV Infections; HIV-1; Humans; Interviews as Topic; Male; Mass Screening; Middle Aged; Surveys and Questionnaires; Domestic Violence; HIV; Infectious Disorders; Victimization; Health

Psychiatric impact of gender-related abuse across the life course of male-to-female transgender persons - Nuttbrock, Larry; Hwahng, Sel; Bockting, Walter; Rosenblum, Andrew; Mason, Mona; Macri, Monica; Becker, Jeffrey (Journal of Sex Research, 2010)
The psychiatric impact of interpersonal abuse associated with an atypical presentation of gender was examined across the life course of 571 male-to-female (MTF) transgender persons from the New York City Metropolitan Area. Gender-related abuse (psychological and physical), suicidality, and Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (4th ed., text revision) major depression were retrospectively measured across five stages of the life course using the Life Chart Interview. Among younger respondents (current age of 19-39), the impact of both types of abuse on major depression was extremely strong during adolescence and then markedly declined during later stages of life. Among older respondents (current age of 40-59), the impact of both types of abuse on major depression was strong during adolescence and then marginally declined during later stages of life. The effects of both types of abuse on suicidality were weaker but more consistently observed across the life course among both the younger and older respondents. Gender-related abuse is a major mental health problem among MTF transgender persons, particularly during adolescence. As these individuals mature, however, the consequences of this abuse appear less severe, which may represent the development of moderately effective mechanisms for coping with this abuse. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: psychiatric impacts; gender abuse; life course; male–to–female transgenders; suicidality; major depression; Adult; Depressive Disorder, Major; Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders; Female; Gender Identity; Humans; Male; Sex Offenses; Spouse Abuse; Transsexualism; Young Adult; Life Span; Sexual Abuse; Suicidal Ideation; Transgender; Suicidality; Human Females; Human Males; Major Depression; Psychiatric Evaluation

Attitudes on End-of-Life Care and Advance Care Planning in the Lesbian and Gay Community - Stein, Gary L.; Bonuck, Karen A. (Journal of Palliative Medicine, 2001)
Gay men and lesbians have special interests in documenting their preferences regarding advance care planning and end-of-life care. A 64-item survey instrument was developed to ascertain the preferences of this community regarding approaches to end-of-life care, viewpoints on physician-assisted suicide (PAS) and euthanasia, and practices regarding advance care planning. The survey was completed by 575 participants recruited through community-based health care and social service organizations serving the lesbian and gay community, primarily in the New York metropolitan area. Respondents represent a diverse group of women (36%) and men (63%) from various age, racial/ethnic, and religious/spiritual backgrounds; 10% were human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive. Respondents' perspectives on end-of life care are generally consistent with findings from other attitudinal studies of U.S. adults: a majority supported legalization of PAS and preferred a palliative approach to end-of-life care. However, the gay community sample revealed even stronger support for assisted suicide and palliative care. Although respondents completed advance directives at a higher rate than adults generally, the legal importance for gay men and lesbians to execute directives should encourage health care providers and community organizations to assume a larger educational role on advance care planning. Results confirm other reports on the need to address provider communication skills. It is speculated that the HIV epidemic was a major influence behind these results because of the overwhelming personal impact of the epidemic on most gay men and lesbians during the past two decades. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: end of life care; advance care planning; lesbian community; gay community; physician assisted suicide; euthanasia; Adult; Advance Directives; Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Attitude to Death; Attitude to Health; Bisexuality; Decision Making; Female; HIV Infections; Health Policy; Homosexuality, Female; Homosexuality, Male; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Needs Assessment; New York City; Patient Education as Topic; Suicide, Assisted; Surveys and Questionnaires; Terminal Care; Advance Directives; Assisted Suicide; Death and Dying; Homosexuality; Palliative Care; Attitudes; Treatment Planning

Health and social issues of gay, lesbian, and bisexual adolescents - Dempsey, Cleta L. (Families in Society, 1994)
Examines social and health issues facing gay, lesbian, or bisexual adolescents. These teenagers lack peer support and positive role models and find it difficult to establish a positive adolescent identity. Social and emotional isolation are often critical problems. Four stages of gay, lesbian, and bisexual identity development, sensitization, identity confusion, identity assumption, and identity commitment are discussed, along with issues related to staying in vs coming out of the closet. The following health and social risks are examined: psychological dysfunction, suicide, running away, dropping out of school, prostitution, violence, and AIDS and other sexually-transmitted diseases. Implications for practitioners in providing comprehensive, culturally appropriate services for these individuals are presented. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2018 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: identity development & health & social risks; gay or lesbian or bisexual adolescents; health care implications; Adolescent Development; Bisexuality; Health; Homosexuality; Social Behavior; Lesbianism; Male Homosexuality

Suicidality and Sexual Orientation: Differences Between Men and Women in a General Population-Based Sample From The Netherlands - de Graaf, Ron; Sandfort, Theo G. M.; ten Have, Margreet (Archives of Sexual Behavior, 2006)
Homosexuality has been shown to be associated with suicidality and mental disorders. It is unclear whether homosexuality is related to suicidality, independently of mental disorders. This study assessed differences in lifetime symptoms of suicidality (death ideation, death wishes, suicide contemplation, and deliberate self-harm) between homosexual and heterosexual men and women, controlling for lifetime psychiatric morbidity. Interaction effects of age and the role of perceived discrimination were also examined. Data were collected on a representative sample of the Dutch population aged 18-64 years. Classification as heterosexual or homosexual was based upon reported sexual behavior in the preceding year. Of those sexually active, 2.8% of 2,878 men and 1.4% of 3,120 women had had same-sex partners. Homosexual men differed from their heterosexual counterparts on all four suicide symptoms (OR ranging from 2.58 to 10.23, with higher ORs for more severe symptoms), and on the sum total of the four symptoms; homosexual women only differed from heterosexual women on suicide contemplation (OR=2.12). Controlling for psychiatric morbidity decreased the ORs, but among men all associations were still significant; the significance for suicide contemplation among women disappeared. Younger homosexuals were not at lower risk for suicidality than older homosexuals in comparison with their heterosexual counterparts. Among homosexual men, perceived discrimination was associated with suicidality. This study suggests that even in a country with a comparatively tolerant climate regarding homosexuality, homosexual men were at much higher risk for suicidality than heterosexual men. This relationship could not only be attributed to their higher psychiatric morbidity. In women, there was no such clear relationship. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: homosexuality; suicidality; mental disorders; gender differences; sexual orientation; Adult; Confidence Intervals; Female; Heterosexuality; Homosexuality; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Netherlands; Odds Ratio; Regression Analysis; Sex Distribution; Social Environment; Social Perception; Suicide; Suicide, Attempted; Surveys and Questionnaires; Human Sex Differences; Mental Disorders; Sexual Orientation; Suicide; Suicidality; Symptoms

Erratum to 'Psychiatric disorders, suicidality, and personality among young men by sexual orientation' - Wang, J.; Dey, M.; Soldati, L.; Weiss, M. G.; Gmel, G.; Mohler-Kuo, M. (European Psychiatry, 2015)
Reports an error in 'Psychiatric disorders, suicidality, and personality among young men by sexual orientation' by J. Wang, M. Dey, L. Soldati, M.G. Weiss, G. Gmel and M. Mohler-Kuo (European Psychiatry, Advanced Online Publication, Jun 24, 2014, np). Several passages in the initially published article were printed incorrectly. The corrected layout is present in the erratum. (The following abstract of the original article appeared in record [rid]2014-26520-001[/rid]). Personality and its potential role in mediating risk of psychiatric disorders and suicidality are assessed by sexual orientation, using data collected among young Swiss men (n=5875) recruited while presenting for mandatory military conscription. Mental health outcomes were analyzed by sexual attraction using logistic regression, controlling for five-factor model personality traits and socio-demographics. Homo/bisexual men demonstrated the highest scores for neuroticism-anxiety but the lowest for sociability and sensation seeking, with no differences for aggression-hostility. Among homo/bisexual men, 10.2% fulfilled diagnostic criteria for major depression in the past 2weeks, 10.8% for ADHD in the past 12 months, 13.8% for lifetime anti-social personality disorder (ASPD), and 6.0% attempted suicide in the past 12 months. Upon adjusting (AOR) for personality traits, their odds ratios (OR) for major depression (OR=4.78, 95% CI 2.81–8.14; AOR=1.46, 95% CI 0.80–2.65) and ADHD (OR=2.17, 95% CI=1.31–3.58; AOR=1.00, 95% CI 0.58–1.75) lost statistical significance, and the odds ratio for suicide attempt was halved (OR=5.10, 95% CI 2.57–10.1; AOR=2.42, 95% CI 1.16–5.02). There are noteworthy differences in personality traits by sexual orientation, and much of the increased mental morbidity appears to be accounted for by such underlying differences, with important implications for etiology and treatment. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2020 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: Depression; ADHD; Anti-social personality disorder; Suicidality; Personality; Homosexuality; Antisocial Personality Disorder; Major Depression; Personality Traits; Sexual Orientation; Morbidity; Sexual Attraction; Suicidality

Non-consensual sex experienced by men who have sex with men: Prevalence and association with mental health - Ratner, Pamela A.; Johnson, Joy L.; Shoveller, Jean A.; Chan, Keith; Martindale, Steve L.; Schilder, Arn J.; Botnick, Michael R.; Hogg, Robert S. (Patient Education and Counseling, 2003)
Investigated the lifetime prevalence rates of childhood sexual abuse, involvement in juvenile prostitution, and adult sexual assault in a sample of 358 homosexual and bisexual males (aged 19-35 yrs). Questionnaire data indicate that almost 1 in 10 of the men had engaged in juvenile prostitution, 14% were forced into sexual activity before 14 yrs of age, and 14% were sexually victimized after the age of 14. Those exposed to nonconsensual sex were 2.9 times more likely to abuse alcohol than those free of victimization. Those who reported childhood sexual abuse were 3.3 times more likely to have attempted suicide. Juvenile prostitution was associated with current depression. The authors state that health professionals have the responsibility to respond competently and sensitively to victims of sexual violence. To do this, many need to recognize the prevalence of male sexual trauma, to deconstruct their personal beliefs about same-sex sexual violence, and to learn to ask sensitive questions in their assessment interviews. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2020 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: non-consensual sex; child sexual abuse; juvenile prostitution; adult sexual assault; homosexual men; bisexual men; prevalence; Adult; British Columbia; Child; Child Abuse, Sexual; Health Services Needs and Demand; Health Status; Homosexuality, Male; Humans; Male; Mental Disorders; Mental Health; Population Surveillance; Prostitution; Rape; Risk Factors; Self Concept; Suicide, Attempted; Child Abuse; Male Homosexuality; Rape; Sexual Abuse; Sex Work; Bisexuality; Early Experience; Epidemiology

Gay and lesbian homeless/street youth: Special issues and concerns - Kruks, Gabe (Journal of Adolescent Health, 1991)
Reports intake data on homeless and runaway youth collected through a consortium of agencies, including one that provides services to a high percentage of gay-, lesbian-, and bisexual-identified youth. Gay and bisexual male youth appear to be at increased risk for both homelessness and suicide. Gay male street youth may have been forced out of their homes because of their sexual orientation and are more likely to engage in survival sex (prostitution) than their nongay male counterparts. In 1 sample, 53% of gay-identified street youths had attempted suicide, compared with 32% of a cohort of street youths that included both gay and nongay youths. Prejudice, discrimination, and homophobia contribute to a multiplicity of problems, including poor self-image and isolation. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2020 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: suicide & involvement in survival sex & other issues & concerns; gay or lesbian or bisexual homeless or street adolescents; Adolescent; Adult; Female; Homeless Persons; Homosexuality; Humans; Los Angeles; Male; Social Problems; Suicide; Homeless; Lesbianism; Male Homosexuality; Suicide; Sex Work; Bisexuality; Psychosexual Behavior

Review of Made in India: Decolonizations, queer sexualities, trans/national projects - Gill, Rosalind (Feminism & Psychology, 2008)
Reviews the book, Made in India: Decolonizations, Queer Sexualities, Trans/National Projects by Suparna Bhaskaran (2004). This is a slim volume (with only 149 pages of text), but a big and important book. More a collection of essays than a monograph, it explores the complex intersection of gender, sexuality and neoliberal capitalist governmentality in contemporary India. In doing so, it makes a stimulating and significant contribution to transnational/postcolonial/queer critique. Made in India is located in the context of three significant phenomena: the rapid and accelerating privatization of the Indian economy; growing khush (queer) activism and cultural work both within India and in its North American and European diasporas; and the marked effect of transnational governmentality in post-/neocolonial India. The book ranges over an enormous variety of material, from the transnational management of intimate conduct through prison reforms, condom promotion and development discourses, to mainstream media reporting of lesbian suicides. The current author states t hat this is a rich, complex, subtle book that raises difficult questions and avoids easy answers. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: decolonizations; queer sexualities; transnational projects; neoliberal capitalist governmentality; gender issues; Indian context; Capitalism; Gender Identity; Government; Homosexuality; Sexuality; Anthropology; Culture (Anthropological); Government Programs; Social Change; Social Processes

Reasons for living in homosexual and heterosexual young adults - Hirsch, Jameson K.; Ellis, Jon B. (Archives of Suicide Research, 1998)
For researchers, suicide is a major concern in young adults. The additional stressors that may be present for gay or lesbian individuals may promote less adaptive characteristics than in heterosexual individuals. 24 gay and lesbian and 38 heterosexual Ss completed the Reasons for Living Inventory (RFL) to determine levels of adaptive characteristics that may prevent suicidal behaviors. Results indicated that gay men and lesbian women endorsed fewer reasons for living than did heterosexual individuals. This reduced level of coping skills may be a result of increased responsibilities, demands, and stressors associated with choosing a homosexual lifestyle. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: reasons for living & adaptive characteristics; homosexual vs heterosexual adults; implications for suicide prevention; Adaptive Behavior; Attitudes; Heterosexuality; Homosexuality; Suicide Prevention

Suicide among homosexual youth - Lebson, Michah (Journal of Homosexuality, 2002)
The contemporary literature on homosexual youth and suicide risk are reviewed in order to delineate the incidence, development, causes/risk factors, and effects of suicidality among homosexual youth. In comparison to heterosexual youth, homosexual youths are more likely to attempt and complete suicide. They confront more challenges in identity development and face more risk factors for suicidality. In some cases, homosexual youths might use suicidal ideation as a means of rediscovering a will to live. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: homosexual vs heterosexual youth; suicide; risk factors; Adolescent; Homosexuality; Humans; Incidence; Risk Factors; Suicide; At Risk Populations; Homosexuality; Suicide

Providing Care to Our Graying Population - Marx, Roz (PsycCRITIQUES, 2007)
Reviews the book, Handbook of Social Work in Health and Aging edited by Barbara Berkman (see record [rid]2006-04200-000[/rid]). This book will be an excellent teaching resource for bachelor's and master's social work classes in geriatric assessment, interventions, resource networks, therapy, advocacy, policy, international social work, and research. At the end of the semester, this volume will probably not show up on 'texts for sale' posters; instead, it is likely that students will keep this volume and use it often in their social work practice. This comprehensive volume was designed as an all-inclusive reference text. It includes multiple sections, each edited by a section editor, and 100 original chapters on geriatric social work practice with chronic physical and health conditions (e.g., cancer, developmental disabilities, functional disability, and HIV); mental health problems (dementia, substance abuse, suicide, mental illnesses); special populations (poverty, immigrant, prisoners, and mistreated and neglected); cultural diversity (African American, Asian, Latino, Native American, lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgendered [LGBT], and other minority groups); palliative and end-of-life care; family, caregiver, and intergenerational practice; practice settings (hospitals, long-term care facilities, home care, welfare, case management, hospice, senior centers, substance abuse and community mental health, and managed care companies); and the types of social services available (case management, counseling, caregiver supports, advocacy, and services for LGBT and HIV seniors). This book is comprehensive, concise, current, and readable. It can be assigned in policy, clinical, and assessment gerontology social work classes. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: gerontology; social work; health care; aging; mental health; Aging; Gerontology; Mental Health; Social Casework; Elder Care; Health

Invisible no more: Addressing the needs of gay, lesbian and bisexual youth and their advocates - Harbeck, Karen M. (The High School Journal, 1993)
Highlights several concerns on behalf of gay, lesbian, and bisexual (GLB) youth and their advocates. These concerns include the focus on attempted and actual suicides of GLB youth and the possibility that this focus may lead to the trading of one negative stereotype for another; the establishment of collective support and advocacy; strategic planning for effective intervention; and the requirement of courses in school law for school administrators and teachers. Other concerns include revamping all school grievance procedures, maintaining a vision of goals and purposes, making use of successful existing intervention models, avoiding sexualizing the debate, and attending to organized political opposition. (0 ref) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: school related concerns; gay & lesbian & bisexual youth & their advocates; Advocacy; Bisexuality; Homosexuality (Attitudes Toward); Lesbianism; Male Homosexuality; Schools; Students

Risk comparison among youth who report sex with same-sex versus both-sex partners - Moon, Martha W.; Fornili, Katherine; O'Briant, Amanda L. (Youth & Society, 2007)
This article examines risk behavior among youth attending support groups for sexual minority youth in Richmond, Virginia, using a structured survey, with particular attention to partner selection and its relationship to risk. Within this generally high-risk group, youth reporting sex partners of both sexes had significantly higher risk profiles, including histories of drug use, suicide attempts, sexual victimization, and having run away from or been removed from the home, than those reporting only same-sex partners. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: sexual minority youth; risk behaviors; partner selection; suicide attempts; drug abuse; victimization; Adolescent Psychology; Risk Taking; Sexual Orientation; Sexual Partners; Risk Assessment; At Risk Populations; Attempted Suicide; Bisexuality; Drug Abuse; Lesbianism; Male Homosexuality; Safe Sex; Victimization; Sexual Minority Groups

Is HIV/AIDS stigma dividing the gay community? Perceptions of HIV-positive men who have sex with men - Courtenay-Quirk, Cari; Wolitski, Richard J.; Parsons, Jeffrey T.; Gómez, Cynthia A. (AIDS Education and Prevention, 2006)
Stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS has existed since the beginning of the epidemic, but little is known about HIV/AIDS stigma within the gay community and how it affects men who have sex with men (MSM) living with HIV. A better understanding of the effects of stigma on this population is needed to reduce it and its harmful effects. Our study used quantitative data from 206 HIV-positive MSM and qualitative data from 250 to document beliefs about HIV/AIDS stigma within the gay community and to measure its effects on sexual risk behaviors, substance use behaviors, serostatus disclosure, and mental health. Stigma was associated with increased levels of anxiety, loneliness, depressive symptoms, engaging in avoidant coping strategies, and history of suicidal ideation. HIV/AIDS stigma exists within the gay community and has a negative effect on the mental health of people living with HIV. HIV/AIDS stigma should be monitored closely so that we may better understand how to address it. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: HIV; AIDS; gay community; men who have sex with men; stigmas; sexual risk behaviors; substance use behaviors; serostatus disclosure; mental health; Adult; Aged; HIV Seropositivity; Homosexuality, Male; Humans; Interpersonal Relations; Interviews as Topic; Male; Middle Aged; New York City; Prejudice; San Francisco; Surveys and Questionnaires; AIDS; HIV; Male Homosexuality; Sexual Risk Taking; Stigma; Communities; Drug Usage; Mental Health; Same Sex Intercourse

Adolescent sexual orientation and suicide risk: Evidence from a national study - Russell, Stephen T.; Joyner, Kara (American Journal of Public Health, 2001)
Sexual orientation has been a debated risk factor for adolescent suicidality over the past 20 years. This study examined the link between sexual orientation and suicidality, using data that are nationally representative and that include other critical youth suicide risk factors. Data from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health were examined. Ss were 11,940 adolescents. Survey logistic regression was used to control for sample design effects. There is a strong link between adolescent sexual orientation and suicidal thoughts and behaviors. The strong effect of sexual orientation on suicidal thoughts is mediated by critical youth suicide risk factors, including depression, hopelessness, alcohol abuse, recent suicide attempts by a peer or a family member, and experiences of victimization. The findings provide strong evidence that sexual minority youths are more likely than their peers to think about and attempt suicide. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: sexual orientation; risk factor; adolescent suicidality; suicidal thoughts; behavior; Adolescent; Bisexuality; Data Collection; Female; Gender Identity; Heterosexuality; Homosexuality; Humans; Likelihood Functions; Longitudinal Studies; Male; Psychology, Adolescent; Risk Assessment; Risk Factors; Schools; Sexuality; Suicide; United States; At Risk Populations; Risk Factors; Sexual Orientation; Suicidal Ideation; Suicide

Highlights of the 2006 Institute on Psychiatric Services - Jackson, Demarie S.; Gartner, Constance (Psychiatric Services, 2007)
This article provides highlights of the 2006 Institute on Psychiatric Services. That main topics discussed include the following: (1) mental health and the public health agenda; (2) suicide prevention and the antiscreening movement; (3) mental health leadership in New York City; (4) assessing and treating aggression in preschool children; (5) serious mental illness and the death penalty; (6) lesbian and gay families; and (7) social competence, mental illness and aggression. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: Institute on Psychiatric Services; public health; mental illness; suicide; aggression; homosexual families; Aggression; Capital Punishment; Humans; Interprofessional Relations; Mental Disorders; Mental Health Services; Psychiatry; Public Health; Suicide; United States; Mental Disorders; Mental Health; Psychiatry; Public Health; Suicide; Aggressive Behavior; Family; Homosexual Parents

Suicide in professional and amateur athletes - de Beurs, Derek; Kerkhof, Ad (Crisis: The Journal of Crisis Intervention and Suicide Prevention, 2014)
Reviews the book, Suicide in Professional and Amateur Athletes: Incidence, Risk Factors, and Prevention by David Lester and John F. Gunn III (see record [rid]2013-17578-000[/rid]). In this book, the authors try to answer the question why both professional and amateur athletes engage in suicidal behavior. The book reviews a wide range of topics, such as the link between suicide and steroids, the effect of being a lesbian, gay, or bisexual athlete, and the effect of retirement on athletes. If one thing becomes clear after reading this book, it is that a lot more research is needed to explain and perhaps prevent suicide amongst athletes. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2020 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: suicide; professional athletes; amateur athletes; incidence; risk factors; prevention; suicidal behavior; Athletes; Risk Factors; Suicide; Suicide Prevention; Professional Athletes; Suicidal Ideation

Health risk-factors for gay American Indian and Alaska native adolescent males - Barney, David D. (Journal of Homosexuality, 2003)
Having multiple identities as a homosexual American Indian or Alaska Native adolescent male increases the likelihood for poorer health and diminished well-being. This study assessed the differences in self-perceived health status between gay adolescent males and their heterosexual counterparts. A national nonrepresentative sample of 5,602 Indian and Native adolescent males was surveyed about issues of sexual behavior, physical and sexual abuse, mental health status, substance use, attitudes about school, participation in violence, and access to health care. Results indicate that there were no real differences between gay and heterosexual male respondents for substance use or attitudes about school. Statistically significant differences were found, however, in areas of mental health, as well as physical and sexual abuse. Gay adolescents were twice as likely to have thought of or attempted suicide. Gay adolescents were twice as likely to have been physically abused and nearly six times more likely to have been sexually abused. Gay American Indian or Alaska Native adolescent males constitute a very vulnerable population and are clearly in need of targeted health and social services. Unfortunately, the benefits seen by adults of the 'two-spirited' gay and lesbian American Indian movement have not been accessible to Indian and Native adolescents. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2020 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: health; risk factors; gay; American Indians; Alaska Native; well-being; adolescent males; Adaptation, Psychological; Adolescent; Alaska; Health Status; Health Status Indicators; Homosexuality, Male; Humans; Indians, North American; Inuits; Male; Risk-Taking; United States; Alaska Natives; American Indians; Male Homosexuality; Risk Factors; Well Being; Adolescent Attitudes; Health; Health Risk Behavior

Correlates of serious suicidal ideation and attempts in female adult sexual assault survivors - Ullman, Sarah E.; Najdowski, Cynthia J. (Suicide and Life-Threatening Behavior, 2009)
Relations between (a) serious suicidal ideation and attempts and (b) demographics, trauma history, assault characteristics, post-assault outcomes, and psychosocial variables were examined among female adult sexual assault survivors. Younger, minority, and bisexual survivors reported greater ideation. More traumas, drug use, and assault disclosure related to greater attempts, whereas perceived control over recovery was related to fewer attempts. Child sexual abuse and some assault characteristics predicted suicidal behavior. Depression was related to suicidal behavior until psychosocial variables were accounted for. Specifically, using substances to cope and self-blame predicted greater ideation, whereas receiving aid/information support was related to less ideation. Implications for research and treatment are discussed. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: suicidal ideation; suicide attempts; sexual assault; survivors; Adaptation, Psychological; Aging; Continental Population Groups; Depression; Female; Humans; Logistic Models; Retrospective Studies; Sex Offenses; Sexuality; Social Support; Substance-Related Disorders; Suicide; Suicide, Attempted; Surveys and Questionnaires; Thinking; Attempted Suicide; Sexual Abuse; Suicidal Ideation; Suicide; Survivors

Suicidal ideation in UK HIV clinic attenders - Sherr, Lorraine; Lampe, Fiona; Fisher, Martin; Arthur, Gilly; Anderson, Jane; Zetler, Sarah; Johnson, Margaret; Edwards, Simon; Harding, Richard (AIDS, 2008)
Background: HIV has been associated with elevated suicidal ideation. Although new treatments have changed prognosis, they also bring new challenges. This study measured suicidal ideation in HIV clinic attenders in the United Kingdom (London/Southeast) and explored associated factors. Method: All 1006 attenders at five HIV clinics were approached, of which 903 met inclusion criteria and 778 participated (86% response). Participants provided detailed information on suicidal ideation, demographics, treatment, adherence, symptoms (psychological and physical on Memorial Symptom Assessment Schedule), quality of life (EuroQol) information, HIV disclosure, clinical variables, sexual risk behavior and treatment optimism. Results: There was a 31% prevalence of suicidal ideation. Factors associated with suicidal ideation were being a heterosexual man, black ethnicity, unemployment, lack of disclosure of HIV status, having stopped antiretroviral treatment (compared to treatment or treatment naive), physical symptoms, psychological symptoms and poorer quality of life. There was no association with sexual risk behavior. Sex/sexuality and ethnicity were independently associated with suicidal ideation: the odds of suicidal ideation increased almost two-fold for heterosexual men compared with gay men or women and for black respondents compared with White or Asian respondents. Lack of disclosure was independently associated with a two-fold increase in odds of suicidal ideation. Elevated physical and psychological symptoms were strong independent predictors of suicidal ideation. Independent predictors of suicidal ideation were very similar among the subgroup of 492 patients on antiretroviral treatment. Conclusion: Despite advances in treatment, suicidal ideation rates among HIV-positive clinic attenders are high. Emotional support and attention to mental health provision and social context are strongly endorsed. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: suicidal ideation; HIV clinic attenders; United Kingdom; African Continental Ancestry Group; Chi-Square Distribution; Counseling; England; Female; HIV Seropositivity; Homosexuality; Humans; Male; Multivariate Analysis; Social Support; Suicide, Attempted; Unemployment; Clinics; HIV; Suicidal Ideation

Sexual orientation and suicidality: A co-twin control study in adult men - Herrell, Richard; Goldberg, Jack; True, William R.; Ramakrishnan, Visvanathan; Lyons, Michael; Eisen, Seth; Tsuang, Ming T. (Archives of General Psychiatry, 1999)
Recent research has have found a higher lifetime prevalence of suicide attempts in homosexual males compared with heterosexual controls or population rates. These studies used either convenience samples or population-based samples in which confounding factors such as depression and substance abuse (SA) were not measured. This study used twins from the population-based Vietnam Era Twin Registry. A sample of 103 middle-aged male–male twin pairs from the registry was identified in which one member of the pair reported male sex partners after age 18 yrs while the other did not. Four lifetime symptoms of suicidality were analyzed: thoughts about death, wanting to die, thoughts about committing suicide, and attempted suicide. A composite measure of reporting at least 1 suicidality symptom was also assessed. Same-gender sexual orientation was significantly associated with each of the suicidality measures. After adjustment for SA and depressive symptoms (other than suicidality), all of the suicidality measures remained significantly associated with same-gender sexual orientation except for wanting to die. It is concluded that the substantially increased lifetime risk of suicidal behaviors in homosexual men is unlikely to be due solely to SA or other psychiatric comorbidity. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: sexual orientation; thoughts about death & committing suicide & wanting to die & attempted suicide; middle aged veteran male twin pairs in which 1 member reported having male sex partners in adulthood; Adult; Confidence Intervals; Confounding Factors (Epidemiology); Depressive Disorder; Diseases in Twins; Homosexuality, Male; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Odds Ratio; Prevalence; Registries; Research Design; Sexual Behavior; Substance-Related Disorders; Suicide; Suicide, Attempted; Twins; United States; Veterans; Attempted Suicide; Death Attitudes; Male Homosexuality; Sexual Orientation; Suicidal Ideation; Military Veterans; Psychosexual Behavior; Twins

In terrorem: 'With their tanks and their bombs, and their bombs and their guns, in your head' - Asquith, Nicole (Journal of Sociology, 2004)
While terrorism has become a major topic of discussion and analysis in the academy and in the policy making of Australian institutions, it rarely affects the everyday life of Australian citizens. Yet for some groups, in terrorem is a way of life - particularly for those whose lives are performed under social and political spotlights. At the core of the limitations imposed on certain groups in Australia is the use of language to police the behaviours of these groups, and to create a social environment that makes hiding one's identity the most effective mechanism to avoid terror. In this article, I analyse the linguistic themes and forms used in hate violence as a way to illustrate the impact of in terrorem on gay men, lesbians and Jews, and suggest alternative means by which to regulate the harm caused by vilification. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: terrorism; linguistics; hate; violence; harm regulation; gay men; lesbians; Jews; Hate; Linguistics; Terrorism; Violence; Harm Reduction; Jews; Lesbianism; Male Homosexuality

Preventing mental health problems among lesbian and gay college students - D'Augelli, Anthony R. (The Journal of Primary Prevention, 1993)
Reviews the mental health concerns of lesbian and gay male college students. Young adults who self-identify as lesbian, gay, or bisexual are at risk for serious mental health problems, including suicide and depression. These problems result from the difficulties involved in developing a lesbian or gay personal identity, and are exacerbated by widespread negative attitudes, harassment, and violence directed toward lesbians and gay men on college campuses. Several systemic preventive interventions are recommended to decrease mental health problems in this population. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: systemic prevention interventions; suicide & depression & other mental health problems; lesbian & gay & bisexual college students; Bisexuality; Lesbianism; Male Homosexuality; Mental Disorders; Prevention; College Students; Major Depression; Suicide

Health care and social service providers’ observations on the intersection of HIV/AIDS and violence among their clients and patients - DiStefano, Anthony S.; Cayetano, Reggie T. (Qualitative Health Research, 2011)
Associations between HIV/AIDS and several forms of violence have been demonstrated in recent research. We conducted qualitative interviews with 30 providers who offered services related to HIV/AIDS or violence to identify specific manifestations of HIV/AIDS–violence intersections, factors that explain why HIV/AIDS and violence intersect in client/patient populations, and the theoretical salience of providers’ narratives. Providers confirmed links between HIV/AIDS and violent victimization, and yielded new insights into crossover risk between HIV/AIDS and suicidality, nonsuicidal self-harm, and witnessing and perpetrating violence. We also isolated 20 explanatory factors, including substance use, poor mental health, sex work/trading sex, and sexual orientation/gender identity. Narratives were consistent with syndemics theory, indicating that HIV/AIDS and violence fueled each other’s occurrence and magnified the health-related burden on affected client/patient populations, often under conditions of health and social disparity. Providers contribute a novel perspective on our understanding of HIV/AIDS–violence syndemics that shows promise in informing future interventions and practice. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: health care; social service providers; HIV; AIDS; violence; Health Care Delivery; Mental Health; Social Services; Health Personnel; AIDS; HIV; Patients; Violence

A review of the evidence on the effects of intimate partner violence on men - Randle, Anna A.; Graham, Cynthia A. (Psychology of Men & Masculinity, 2011)
This review examines the empirical evidence on the effects of intimate partner violence (IPV) in men. The main theoretical frameworks used in this area are outlined, and methodological issues are discussed. Studies examining posttraumatic stress (PTS) symptoms, depression, and suicidal ideation in men who have experienced IPV are reviewed. The limited research on the effects of IPV in same-sex couples is considered. Outcomes suggest that men can experience significant psychological symptoms as a consequence of IPV; associations among IPV and PTS, depression, and suicide have been documented. Recommendations for future research on the effects of IPV in male victims are provided, including the need to focus on externalizing, in addition to internalizing, symptomatology; the development of gender-appropriate measures of violent behavior; and the comparison of male IPV and non-IPV samples. In-depth qualitative research and studies focusing on psychological abuse experienced by men would also be valuable. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2018 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: intimate partner violence; male violence; psychological symptoms; Human Males; Intimate Partner Violence; Psychiatric Symptoms

Playing it safe: Addressing the emotional and physical health of lesbian and gay pupils in the UK - Warwick, Ian; Aggleton, Peter; Douglas, Nicola (Journal of Adolescence, 2001)
Compared to young people in general, young lesbians and gay men can face specific challenges to their physical and emotional well–being. These include discrimination, victimization, homophobic bullying and an elevated suicide risk. Relative to initiatives which attempt to address bullying in general, little has been done in schools in the UK to address physical and verbal homophobic bullying. This paper reports on an exploratory study of 307 teachers to examine their perceptions of homophobic bullying, the responses made to this form of bullying, and the factors which impact on the provision of education and support to lesbian and gay pupils. Findings suggested that teachers were aware of homophobic bullying but were confused, unable or unwilling to address the needs of lesbian and gay pupils. Implications for policy, practice and research are discussed. While current UK government policy promoting Healthy Schools and Citizenship education offers hope for the future, much remains to be done to ensure that such initiatives are inclusive of all pupils. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2017 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: perceptions of & responses to homophobic bullying & factors that impact provision of education & support to lesbian & gay pupils; teachers; United Kingdom; Female; Great Britain; Homosexuality, Female; Homosexuality, Male; Humans; Male; Mental Health; Prejudice; Social Support; Homosexuality (Attitudes Toward); Prejudice; Teacher Attitudes; Education; Student Characteristics; Teachers

Depression, suicidal ideation and STD-related risk in homeless older adolescents - Rohde, Paul; Noell, John; Ochs, Linda; Seeley, John R. (Journal of Adolescence, 2001)
Examined depression, suicide ideation, hopelessness, and risk behavior for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) among homeless adolescents. 523 youth (aged 13–20 yrs) completed interviews concerning depression, suicide ideation, feelings of hopelessness, occurrence of STD, frequency of condom use, multiple sex partners, lifetime iv drug use, sexual coercion, lifetime history of prostitution, lifetime homosexual experience, and non-heterosexual orientation. Results show that the likelihood of a major depressive disorder were 5+ times greater among homeless Ss compared with non- homeless controls. The odds of dysthymia were 13+ times greater, and the odds of unipolar depression were 7+ times greater. As well 38% of Ss reported 1+ suicide attempts. 73% of Ss reported experiencing their initial episode of depression prior to leaving home. Current depression and suicide ideation was associated with infrequent condom use, lifetime iv drug use, a non-heterosexual orientation, and lifetime homosexual experience. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2020 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: depression; suicide ideation; hopelessness; risk behavior; sexually transmitted diseases; homelessness; condom use; sex partners; iv drug use; coercion; prostitution; homosexuality; Adolescent; Adult; Age Factors; Depressive Disorder; Female; Homeless Youth; Humans; Likelihood Functions; Logistic Models; Male; Northwestern United States; Risk Factors; Risk-Taking; Sex Factors; Sexual Behavior; Sexually Transmitted Diseases; Substance-Related Disorders; Suicide; Time Factors; Homeless; Hopelessness; Major Depression; Sexual Risk Taking; Coercion; Condoms; Homosexuality; Intravenous Drug Usage; Sexually Transmitted Diseases; Sex Work

Review of Man vibes: Masculinities in the Jamaican Dancehall - Crichlow, Wesley (Canadian Review of Sociology, 2011)
Reviews the book, Man Vibes: Masculinities in the Jamaican Dancehall by Donna P. Hope (2010). This book addresses the strictures of Black male representation, the tropes of Black postcolonial Caribbean masculinity, heteropatriarchy, homophobia, and sexuality in a predominantly Black Jamaican Dancehall music and culture. The author marries popular culture debates with theories of gender and sexuality, while examining the progress of Jamaican masculinities in Dancehall cultures. She explores five prominent masculine debates that are well known in Dancehall music and culture. The debates are promiscuous heterosexuality, gun/violence, antimale homosexuality, conspicuous consumption, and the noveau presentation of a fashioned and styled dancehall variant of maleness, or a biologized hypermasculinity. Methodically as a native of Jamaica, she uses both a personal, ethnographic, and anthropological perspective, auditing the history of Dancehall within Jamaican popular culture. Hope’s book is a present-day dialogue into postcolonial societies, just as slave narratives examined what it meant to be slaves. Her work makes a significant contribution and is an excellent teachable moment to the present media representations of the angry and aggressive Black masculinities often portrayed. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: masculinity; Jamaican Dancehall music; sexuality; sexual orientation; culture; Blacks; Culture (Anthropological); Masculinity; Music; Sexual Orientation; Sexuality; Blacks

An exploratory study of correlates, onset, and offset of non-suicidal self-injury - Deliberto, Tara L.; Nock, Matthew K. (Archives of Suicide Research, 2008)
The study of non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) has focused largely on identifying diagnostic correlates and the functions of this behavior; however, little is known about the broader range of factors related to NSSI. We examined a wide array of factors hypothesized to correlate with non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) and provided a qualitative analysis of adolescents' self-reported motivations for starting and stopping this behavior. Participants were 64 adolescents with a history of NSSI and 30 comparison adolescents without such a history matched on age, sex, and ethnicity recruited from the community and assessed during one laboratory visit. The presence of NSSI was associated with a family history of suicidal ideation, violence, and drug and alcohol abuse, but not with more general forms of psychopathology. NSSI also was associated with the presence of in utero complications, the occurrence of non-injurious repetitive behaviors during childhood, and endorsement of a homosexual or bisexual orientation. Self-injurers reported getting the idea to self-injure from peers (38%) more often than any other source, and most (78%) reported at least one reason for wanting to stop self-injury. Less than half were currently receiving treatment. This exploratory study provides new information about the correlates of NSSI that has implications for research and clinical work in this area. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: non-suicidal self-injury; adolescents; self-reported motivations; offset; correlates; onset; Adolescent; Adult; Ethnic Groups; Female; Homosexuality; Humans; Male; Risk Factors; Self-Injurious Behavior; Adolescent Psychopathology; Motivation; Onset (Disorders); Self-Destructive Behavior; Etiology; Self-Report

What Schools Can Do to Help Gay/Lesbian/Bisexual Youth: A Harm Reduction Approach - van Wormer, Katherine; McKinney, Robin (Adolescence, 2003)
In recognition of the fact that heterosexism is one of the most significant realities of adolescents' day-to-day experiences in school, this paper examines the school environment in terms of disempowering and empowering aspects. It is argued that failure to take a proactive stance to help youth with gender identity issues is a major cause of psychological problems, leading in some cases to suicide, alcohol and other drug abuse, and homelessness. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: adolescents; gays; lesbians; bisexuals; harm reduction; school environment; gender identity; at risk populations; mental disorders; Adolescent; Female; Homosexuality, Female; Homosexuality, Male; Humans; Male; Mental Disorders; Peer Group; Power (Psychology); Prejudice; Risk Factors; Schools; Social Environment; Bisexuality; Lesbianism; Male Homosexuality; Risk Management; School Environment; Adolescent Development; At Risk Populations; Gender Identity; Harm Reduction; Homosexuality (Attitudes Toward); Mental Disorders

Drinking patterns, problems, and motivations among collegiate bisexual women - Bostwick, Wendy B.; McCabe, Sean Esteban; Horn, Stacey; Hughes, Tonda; Johnson, Timothy; Valles, Jesus Ramirez (Journal of American College Health, 2007)
Objective and Participants: The authors compared the drinking behaviors, motivations, and problems of collegiate bisexual women with those of heterosexual women (N = 2,788; n = 86 bisexual women). Methods: Data came from the 2003 Student Life Survey, a random population-based survey at a large midwestern university. The authors explored the hypothesis that bisexual women would be more likely than heterosexual women to report drinking motivations related to stress and coping as a result of sexual identity stigma. Results: They found that bisexual women drank significantly less than did heterosexual women. There were few differences between the 2 groups in drinking motivations and problems. Bisexual women reported a comparable number of problems related to their drinking but were significantly more likely to report contemplating suicide after drinking than were heterosexual women. Conclusions: More research is needed to understand the finding that despite lower levels of alcohol consumption, bisexual women reported a comparable number of drinking problems. College health educators and health care providers need to be aware of findings related to heightened suicidal risk among bisexual women. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: drinking patterns; behavior problems; motivations; collegiate bisexual women; Adult; Alcohol Drinking; Bisexuality; Female; Heterosexuality; Humans; Motivation; Students; Universities; Behavior Problems; Bisexuality; Colleges; Drinking Behavior; Motivation; Human Females

Social alienation in gay youth - Sullivan, Michael; Wodarski, John S. (Journal of Human Behavior in the Social Environment, 2002)
Reviews research on the impact of social support and alienation, and known risk factors for gay youth and adolescents, including substance abuse and alcoholism, depression, suicide, and HIV risks. Social support factors included parental, peer and religious support. Evidence suggests that gay and lesbian youth are at high risk for isolation and subsequent psychological damage that results from social alienation. Intervention strategies for professionals working with a gay adolescent population are discussed. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: social support; gay adolescents; lesbian adolescents; social alienation; risk factors; substance abuse; alcoholism; depression; suicide; HIV risk; Adolescent Development; Alienation; At Risk Populations; Homosexuality; Social Support; Alcoholism; Drug Abuse; HIV; Lesbianism; Major Depression; Male Homosexuality; Risk Factors; Social Adjustment; Suicide

Perceptions of life and death among suicidal gay adolescents - Ben-Ari, Adital Tirosh; Gil, Sharon (Omega: Journal of Death and Dying, 1998)
Suicide rates among homosexuals are higher than those among heterosexuals. This article suggests that gay youth who attempt suicide represent a special case in which the meanings associated with life and death are worth exploration. In light of the phenomenological paradigm, the authors are interested in how 16 gay men (mean age 23 yrs) who attempted suicide in their adolescence perceived life and death before the actual suicide attempt and how these perceptions are linked to the attempt. I. Orbach's model (1992) specifies 4 categories of attitudes toward life and death: attraction and aversion to life and attraction and aversion to death. Only 3 categories of Orbach's model emerged from the interview data. 'Attraction to life' was missing and the analysis attempts to account for this gap. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: perceptions of life & death before suicide attempt & how perceptions are linked to attempt; gay males (mean age 23 yrs) who attempted suicide in adolescence; Adolescent Attitudes; Attempted Suicide; Death Attitudes; Life Satisfaction; Male Homosexuality

Why does Zeno the stoic hold his breath? 'Zenoism' as a new variable for studying suicide - Kaplan, Kalman J.; Ficker, Lisa; Wallrabenstein, Inga; Dodge, Neal; Laird, Peta-Gay; Thiel, Kenneth; Folk, Melissa (Omega: Journal of Death and Dying, 2007)
A single misfortune may be seen as just that, or may be interpreted as Zeno the Stoic did, as a 'sign' of cosmic proportion (zenoizing), which paradoxically provides a missing meaning structure. This article presents two studies testing out this new variable (zenoism): in Study One (n = 233), we explore the moderating effects of religiosity and gender on zenoism, depression, demoralization, and suicidality. In Study Two (n = 137), we explore these same moderating effects on zenoism, fear of dependency, value of life, and favorability toward physician-assisted suicide (PAS). Results indicate: 1) men and non-religious respondents (especially men) zenoize more than women and religious respondents; 2) non-religious respondents, (especially men) are more generally favorable to PAS and more suicidal; 3) Zenoism is negatively related to depression, demoralization, and value of life for non-religious respondents, and for men; 4) Zenoism is positively related to favorability toward PAS toward one's self and overall suicidality; and finally 5) general and self-specific favorability toward PAS are distinct, but both relate to overall suicidality. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: physician-assisted suicide; religiosity; depression; suicide; suicidality; Zeno; zenoize; zenozing; assisted suicide; Adult; Christianity; Culture; Dependency (Psychology); Depression; Fear; Female; Humans; Male; Philosophy; Religion and Psychology; Sex Factors; Suicide; Suicide, Assisted; Surveys and Questionnaires; Value of Life; Adult Attitudes; Religiosity; Suicide; Suicidality; Assisted Suicide; Death and Dying; Human Sex Differences

Correlates of substance use among homeless youths in eight cities - Salomonsen-Sautel, Stacy; Van Leeuwen, James M.; Gilroy, Christine; Boyle, Susan; Malberg, Danielle; Hopfer, Christian (The American Journal on Addictions, 2008)
Homeless youths (N = 684) in eight cities participated in this study to understand the rates and correlates of substance use. Rates of lifetime and recent substance use ranged from 66% to 90%. Variability in lifetime and recent substance use was partially explained by being white (ages 14-17); ever attempting suicide (ages 14-17); not being African American (lifetime substance use) or Hispanic (ages 18-24); being male (ages 18-24); identifying as lesbian, gay, or bisexual (ages 18-24); using substances with a parent; beginning substance use at a young age; and having a family history of a substance problem. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: homeless youths; correlates of substance use; lifetime and recent substance use; Adolescent; Adult; Age Factors; Alcoholism; Cross-Sectional Studies; Female; Genetic Predisposition to Disease; Health Surveys; Homeless Youth; Humans; Male; Sex Factors; Statistics as Topic; Substance-Related Disorders; Suicide, Attempted; United States; Drug Abuse; Homeless

Youth suicide risk and sexual orientation - Rutter, Philip A.; Soucar, Emil (Adolescence, 2002)
Using a broad suicide risk assessment (suicidal ideation, hopelessness, hostility) with 100 youth aged 17 to 19 yrs, this study examined the relationship between sexual orientation and youth suicide risk. Participants were compared across sexual orientation, as well as level of perceived external support, which may be a mitigating variable in suicide risk. The suicide risk demonstrated by sexual minorities in this study was no greater than that of their heterosexual peers. Youth who reported more external support demonstrated lower overall suicide risk and, specifically, lower levels of hostility, hopelessness, and suicidal ideation. The results indicated that suicide risk is not determined by demographic criteria alone, and may be influenced by psychosocial variables, such as support. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: sexual orientation; suicide risk; suicidal ideation; social support; hostility; hopelessness; psychosocial development; demographics; epidemiology; Adolescent; Adult; Bisexuality; Female; Heterosexuality; Homosexuality; Humans; Male; Multivariate Analysis; Risk Assessment; Risk Factors; Sexual Behavior; Social Support; Suicide; United States; At Risk Populations; Psychosocial Development; Sexual Orientation; Social Support; Suicide; Demographic Characteristics; Epidemiology; Hopelessness; Hostility; Suicidal Ideation

Are transgender persons at higher risk for HIV than other sexual minorities? A comparison of HIV prevalence and risks - Bockting, Walter; Huang, Chiung-Yu; Ding, Hua; Robinson, Beatrice; Rosser, B. R. Simon (International Journal of Transgenderism, 2005)
Recent studies have shown that transgender people are at high risk for HIV. Few studies, however, have directly compared the HIV risks and sexual health of transgender persons with that of other sexual minority populations. This study used baseline data of intervention studies targeting transgender persons, men who have sex with men, and women who have sex with women and men to compare their HIV risk behavior and sexual health. No significant differences were found between transgender persons and nontransgender men or women in consistent condom use or attitudes toward condom use. Transgender persons were less likely to have multiple partners and more likely to be monogamous than men who have sex with men; no differences were found between transgender persons and the women in this respect. When combining data on condom use, monogamy, and multiple partners, transgender persons did not differ from either nontransgender group in their overall risk for HIV. Transgender persons were less likely than the men or the women to have been tested for HIV. With regard to HIV prevalence, 17% of the men compared to only one transgender person and none of the women reported being HIV-positive. Transgender persons were also less likely than men who have sex with men to use drugs; no differences were found in the use of alcohol. However, with regard to mental health, transgender persons were more likely than the men to have experienced depression and more likely than men or women to have considered or attempted suicide. Finally, transgender persons reported the lowest levels of support from family and peers. Thus, in our sample, transgender persons appear to be at lower risk for HIV but at higher risk for mental health concerns than men who have sex with men. Remarkably few differences were found between transgender persons and women who have sex with women and men-a finding which might reflect the impact of social stigma on sexual health and have implications for the design of future HIV/STI prevention efforts. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: transgender persons; HIV risks; sexual minorities; HIV prevalence; sexual health; social stigma; HIV prevention efforts; AIDS Prevention; HIV; Sexual Risk Taking; Transsexualism; Risk Assessment; Health; Sex; Stigma

Review of God, sex, and politics: Homosexuality and everyday theologies - Wolfman, Oscar (Archives of Sexual Behavior, 2007)
Reviews the book, God, sex, and politics: Homosexuality and everyday theologies by Dawne Moon (2004). The author has written a monograph illustrating how people interact based on their understanding of how God wants them to be. The author studied one urban and one rural mid-west American congregation, both of which viewed religion as a refuge from the secular world and the church as a site for communitas and transcendence. The author does not deconstruct the responses that compare homosexuality to mental retardation and cannibalism; she does not mention that child sexual abuse is more prevalent among heterosexuals than among the homosexuals identified; she does not offer examples of well-adjusted queer couples to counter the pathological examples of lonely, suicidal, or sex-crazed individuals. This monograph may not be my first recommendation for a sociologist looking for an overview of the intersections of God, sex, and politics, but this is a worthwhile read for those who want to see Foucault applied to religion on an everyday practical level, and it is even better for those who want to study the politics of religion or the religion of American politics. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: God; sex; politics; homosexuality; everyday theologies; homosexuals; Homosexuality; Religion; Sex; Theology; Politics; Sexual Abuse

Context of sexual risk behaviour among abused ethnic minority adolescent women - Champion, J. D. (International Nursing Review, 2011)
Background: Evidence suggests that multiple influences on sexual behaviour of adolescents exist, ranging from relationships with significant others including sexual or physical abuse and childhood molestation to substances used prior to sex and environmental circumstances such as sex work. Purpose: This study aims to describe associations between childhood molestation and sexual risk behaviour. Method: African American and Mexican American adolescent women aged 14–18 years (n = 562) with sexually transmitted infection (STI) or abuse histories and enrolled in a randomized controlled trial of behavioural interventions were interviewed via self-report concerning sexual risk behaviour, abuse and childhood molestation at study entry. Results: Sexual (59%), physical (77%) and psychological (82%) abuse and childhood molestation (25%) were self-reported without differences by ethnicity. Adolescents reporting childhood molestation experienced more forms of sexual, physical and psychological abuse than others and higher incidences of STI. Fewer attended school; however, more had arrests, convictions, incarcerations and probations. Stressors including depression, running away, thoughts of death and suicide were highest for those reporting childhood molestation. Those reporting childhood molestation engaged in higher sexual risk behaviours than adolescents experiencing other forms of sexual or physical abuse (lifetime partners, bisexual relationships, anal and group sex, sex with friends with benefits, sex for money, concurrent partners, drug use including multiple substances, alcohol use and alcohol problems). These adolescents reported ‘getting high’ and having sex when out of control as reasons for sex with multiple partners. Conclusion: Interventions for abused adolescent women necessitate a focus on associations between childhood molestation and a multiplicity of sexual risk behaviours for prevention of abuse, substance use and sex work, STI/human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and sequelae. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: sexual risk behavior; abused ethnic minority adolescent women; childhood molestation; self report; sexual or physical abuse; Adolescent; Adolescent Behavior; African Americans; Chi-Square Distribution; Female; Humans; Interviews as Topic; Mexican Americans; Risk Factors; Risk-Taking; Sex Offenses; Sexual Behavior; Pedophilia; Physical Abuse; Self-Report; Sexual Abuse; Sexual Risk Taking; Minority Groups; Racial and Ethnic Groups

Factors influencing suicide intent in gay and bisexual suicide ideators: Differing models for men with and without human immunodeficiency virus - Schneider, Stephen G.; Taylor, Shelley E.; Hammen, Constance; Kemeny, Margaret E.; Dudley, Jan (Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 1991)
Of 778 gay and bisexual men (none with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome [AIDS]), 27% (n = 212) reported suicidal ideation over the previous 6 mo. Covariance structure models were used to explore predictors of suicide intent among (n = 112) suicide ideators with (n = 100) and without (n = 112) human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Current AIDS-related stressors (deaths and illnesses and perceived AIDS risk) and past levels of adaptive functioning (social isolation and depression) were significantly more powerful predictors of suicide intent among HIV-positive than among HIV-negative ideators. Biological AIDS risk predicted neither suicide intent, current distress, nor perceived AIDS risk. Pathways to suicide intent appear to be psychologically, rather than biologically, mediated. Among HIV-positive ideators, AIDS-related death and illness events predicted suicide intent but not current distress symptoms. Some suicidal ideation in response to AIDS-related events may be an effort to cope rather than a manifestation of psychological distress. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: prediction of suicide intent; gay & bisexual male suicide ideators with vs without HIV; Adaptation, Psychological; Adult; Bisexuality; HIV Infections; HIV Seropositivity; Homosexuality; Humans; Male; Risk Factors; Social Support; Suicide; Thinking; Bisexuality; HIV; Intention; Male Homosexuality; Suicidal Ideation

Compassion and ethics: A glance at the field - Meyer-Frazão, Lilian (International Gestalt Journal, 2008)
This article examines the increasing number of terrible crimes committed by young people with a rather good social, economic and educational level with special focus on compassion and ethics. The author also focuses on other type of crimes like serial killings, children shooting peers, policemen killing innocent people, explosions of buildings, actions against minorities and many more. Crimes of indifference involve different and complex social, economical and political dimensions as well as absence of compassion and ethics. The emotion aroused by someone else’s pain can be called compassion if it is a feeling of solidarity which differs from an identity of emotional states between the one who feels and the one who is commiserated with. The possibility of compassion is given by being capable of feeling respect and consideration toward the other in his or her otherness, whether it happens to be an Indian, a white man or a black man, whether a beggar, a poor or a rich person, a child, an adult or an elderly person; a man or a woman, a heterosexual, a homosexual, a bisexual or a transsexual. Compassion is part of any respectful relationship, be it therapeutic, social, professional, or in relation to strangers. Respect and consideration are possibilities that derive from our experiences throughout our growth and development processes. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: compassion; ethics; crime; Crime; Ethics; Sympathy

Suicidal behavior among female sex workers in Goa, India: The silent epidemic - Shahmanesh, Maryam; Wayal, Sonali; Cowan, Frances; Mabey, David; Copas, Andrew; Patel, Vikram (American Journal of Public Health, 2009)
Objectives: We sought to study suicidal behavior prevalence and its association with social and gender disadvantage, sex work, and health factors among female sex workers in Goa, India. Methods: Using respondent-driven sampling, we recruited 326 sex workers in Goa for an interviewer-administered questionnaire regarding self-harming behaviors, sociodemographics, sex work, gender disadvantage, and health. Participants were tested for sexually transmitted infections. We used multivariate analysis to define suicide attempt determinants. Results. Nineteen percent of sex workers in the sample reported attempted suicide in the past 3 months. Attempts were independently associated with intimate partner violence (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 2.70; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.38, 5.28), violence from others (AOR = 2.26; 95% CI = 1.15, 4.45), entrapment (AOR = 2.76; 95% CI = 1.11, 6.83), regular customers (AOR = 3.20; 95% CI = 1.61, 6.35), and worsening mental health (AOR = 1.05; 95% CI = 1.01, 1.11). Lower suicide attempt likelihood was associated with Kannad ethnicity, HIV prevention services, and having a child. Conclusions. Suicidal behaviors among sex workers were common and associated with gender disadvantage and poor mental health. India’s widespread HIV-prevention programs for sex workers provide an opportunity for community- based interventions against gender-based violence and for mental health services delivery. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2020 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: suicidal behavior; female sex workers; India; prevalence; Adolescent; Adult; Female; HIV Infections; Humans; India; Logistic Models; Mental Disorders; Prevalence; Prostitution; Risk Factors; Suicide, Attempted; Surveys and Questionnaires; Violence; Attempted Suicide; Epidemiology; Suicide; Sex Work

Attempted Suicide Among Transgender Persons: The Influence of Gender-Based Discrimination and Victimization - Clements-Nolle, Kristen; Marx, Rani; Katz, Mitchell (Journal of Homosexuality, 2006)
To determine the independent predictors of attempted suicide among transgender persons we interviewed 392 male-to-female (MTF) and 123 female-to-male (FTM) individuals. Participants were recruited through targeted sampling, respondent-driven sampling, and agency referrals in San Francisco. The prevalence of attempted suicide was 32% (95% CI = 28% to 36%). In multivariate logistic regression analysis younger age (<25 years), depression, a history of substance abuse treatment, a history of forced sex, gender-based discrimination, and gender-based victimization were independently associated with attempted suicide. Suicide prevention interventions for transgender persons are urgently needed, particularly for young people. Medical, mental health, and social service providers should address depression, substance abuse, and forced sex in an attempt to reduce suicidal behaviors among transgender persons. In addition, increasing societal acceptance of the transgender community and decreasing gender-based prejudice may help prevent suicide in this highly stigmatized population. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: transgender persons; attempted suicide; gender based discrimination; victimization; epidemiology; Adult; Crime Victims; Female; Humans; Male; Prejudice; Prevalence; Risk Assessment; Risk Factors; San Francisco; Sexual Behavior; Suicide, Attempted; Transsexualism; Attempted Suicide; Epidemiology; Sex Discrimination; Transsexualism; Victimization; Drug Abuse; Major Depression; Mental Health; Prejudice; Suicide

Reprint of: Bullying victimisation, self harm and associated factors in Irish adolescent boys - McMahon, Elaine M.; Reulbach, Udo; Keeley, Helen; Perry, Ivan J.; Arensman, Ella (Social Science & Medicine, 2012)
School bullying victimisation is associated with poor mental health and self harm. However, little is known about the lifestyle factors and negative life events associated with victimisation, or the factors associated with self harm among boys who experience bullying. The objectives of the study were to examine the prevalence of bullying in Irish adolescent boys, the association between bullying and a broad range of risk factors among boys, and factors associated with self harm among bullied boys and their non-bullied peers. Analyses were based on the data of the Irish centre of the Child and Adolescent Self Harm in Europe (CASE) study (boys n = 1870). Information was obtained on demographic factors, school bullying, deliberate self harm and psychological and lifestyle factors including negative life events. In total 363 boys (19.4%) reported having been a victim of school bullying at some point in their lives. The odds ratio of lifetime self harm was four times higher for boys who had been bullied than those without this experience. The factors that remained in the multivariate logistic regression model for lifetime history of bullying victimisation among boys were serious physical abuse and self esteem. Factors associated with self harm among bullied boys included psychological factors, problems with schoolwork, worries about sexual orientation and physical abuse, while family support was protective against self harm. Our findings highlight the mental health problems associated with victimisation, underlining the importance of anti-bullying policies in schools. Factors associated with self harm among boys who have been bullied should be taken into account in the identification of boys at risk of self harm. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: school bullying; victimization; self harm; Irish adolescent boys; risk factors; peers; Risk Factors; Self-Destructive Behavior; Victimization; Bullying; Human Males; Peers; Schools

Women's sexual orientation and health: Results from a Canadian population-based survey - Steele, Leah S.; Ross, Lori E.; Dobinson, Cheryl; Veldhuizen, Scott; Tinmouth, Jill M. (Women & Health, 2009)
The current study sought to determine whether health status and health risk behaviors of Canadian women varied based on sexual identity. This was a cross-sectional analysis of data from the Canadian Community Health Survey: cycle 2.1, a national population- based survey designed to gather health data on a representative sample of over 135,000 Canadians including 354 lesbian respondents, 424 bisexual women respondents, and 60,937 heterosexual women respondents. Sexual orientation was associated with disparities in health status and health risk behaviors for lesbian and bisexual women in Canada. Bisexual women were more likely than lesbians or heterosexual women to report poor or fair mental and physical health, mood or anxiety disorders, lifetime STD diagnosis, and, most markedly, life-time suicidality. Lesbians and bisexual women were also more likely to report daily smoking and risky drinking than heterosexual women. In sum, sexual orientation was associated with health status in Canada. Bisexual women, in particular, reported poorer health outcomes than lesbian or heterosexual women, indicating this group may be an appropriate target for specific health promotion interventions. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2020 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: women's sexual orientation; health status; health risk behaviors; Adult; Alcohol Drinking; Canada; Chi-Square Distribution; Cross-Sectional Studies; Female; Health Status; Health Surveys; Humans; Mental Health; Middle Aged; Odds Ratio; Regression Analysis; Risk-Taking; Sexuality; Smoking; Surveys and Questionnaires; Women's Health; Health; Health Behavior; Human Females; Risk Taking; Sexual Orientation; Health Risk Behavior

Gay and lesbian youth: Contributing factors to serious attempts or considerations of suicide - Hammelman, Tracie L. (Journal of Gay & Lesbian Psychotherapy, 1993)
Examined 48 gay and lesbian youths' (aged 15–32 yrs) tendencies for suicide and the extent to which these tendencies are influenced by sexual orientation (SXO), violence, age, substance abuse, physical or emotional abuse, family rejection, or gender. 20 Ss were females and 28 were males. Nearly one-half of the Ss seriously considered suicide, while one-third actually attempted suicide. Close to three-quarters of this population cited SXO as some or most of the reason for their suicide consideration or attempt with the majority revealing that they had done so at age 17 or before. 50% or more of those who (1) had a substance abuse problem, (2) were physically or emotionally abused, or (3) experienced family rejection, reported that SXO was the main reason for these problems. Results are clinically significant for therapists who work with this population. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: factors in suicidal tendencies & attempts; gay & lesbian 15–32 yr olds; Attempted Suicide; Lesbianism; Male Homosexuality; Psychosocial Factors; Suicide

HIV infection and suicide in the era of HAART in England, Wales and Northern Ireland - Rice, Brian D.; Smith, Ruth D.; Delpech, Valerie C. (AIDS, 2010)
Reported rates of suicidal ideation among the general population range between 2 and 25%, with somewhat higher rates reported among gay or bisexual men or women, and people with permanent sickness or medical illnesses. We investigate suicide as a cause of death among adults diagnosed with HIV in England, Wales and Northern Ireland (E, W, NI). Causes of death are as reported directly to the national HIV and AIDS new diagnoses database, and the annual census of people accessing HIV-related care. These data are supplemented by information provided by the Office of National Statistics. Between 1981 and end 2008, 95 075 adults were diagnosed with HIV in E, W and NI, among whom 16 744 (17.6%) deaths were reported. Of these deaths, 34.7% (5807) occurred during the HAART era (1997–2008), for which cause of death was available for 97.6% (5666). The proportion of deaths owing to suicide and possible suicide was 0.9 (52) and 5.5% (312), respectively. Our findings highlight an important discrepancy between rates of suicidal ideation reported among clinic attendees and annual rates of possible suicide among adults accessing HIV-related services. HIV infection is today a chronic condition with a normal life span when diagnosed and treated promptly. Nevertheless, stigma and other psychosocial factors continue to disproportionally impact on the lives of persons living with HIV. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: HIV infection; suicide; England; Wales; Northern Ireland; HAART era; antiretroviral therapy; gays; bisexuals; Antiviral Drugs; Drug Therapy; HIV; Suicide; Bisexuality; Male Homosexuality

Challenging heterosexism in college health service delivery - McKee, Michael B.; Hayes, Stuart F.; Axiotis, I. Renee (Journal of American College Health, 1994)
Examines the ways that HIV/AIDS, substance abuse, violence and hate-related crimes, suicide, and heterosexism adversely affects the physical and emotional health of lesbian, gay, and bisexual college students. Examples of heterosexism in college health services are described, including stereotyping homosexual students, ignoring the health needs of these students, using heterosexist language, and being intolerant of same-sex relationships. College health services are urged to expand their current scope and practice and assume a leadership role in combating all forms of oppression by actively incorporating and addressing the unique health issues and needs of the lesbian, bisexual, and gay population. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: prevalence & impact of heterosexism in college health services; lesbian & bisexual & gay college students; Bisexuality; Female; Health Services Needs and Demand; Health Status; Homosexuality; Humans; Information Services; Leadership; Male; Organizational Innovation; Organizational Objectives; Power (Psychology); Program Evaluation; Referral and Consultation; Student Health Services; Bisexuality; College Students; Health Care Services; Homosexuality (Attitudes Toward); Student Personnel Services; Homosexuality

AIDS-related factors predictive of suicidal ideation of low and high intent among gay and bisexual men - Schneider, Stephen G.; Taylor, Shelley E.; Kemeny, Margaret E.; Hammen, Constance (Suicide and Life-Threatening Behavior, 1991)
Examined stressors related to the acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) and their association with suicidal ideation and suicidal intent among 778 gay and bisexual men (none with AIDS). 212 Ss were classified as suicidal. A number of AIDS-related events discriminated suicidal from nonsuicidal Ss: (1) recent loss of a partner to AIDS or AIDS-related complex (ARC); (2) recent ARC diagnosis; (3) multiple close friends with ARC. AIDS-related stressors associated with high-intent suicidal ideation tended to be stressors that could be characterized as chronic and ongoing, such as having a partner with AIDS or ARC or close friends with AIDS or carrying an ARC diagnosis. Recent receipt of a positive antibody test result with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) was specifically associated with low-intent suicidal ideation. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: AIDS related stressors; prediction of suicidal ideation; low vs high intent gay & bisexual males without AIDS; AIDS Serodiagnosis; Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome; Adult; Bisexuality; Cohort Studies; Homosexuality; Humans; Life Change Events; Los Angeles; Male; Personality Inventory; Psychometrics; Risk Factors; Sick Role; Suicide; AIDS; Bisexuality; Male Homosexuality; Stress; Suicidal Ideation; Intention

Bridging the divide: Integrating lesbian identity and orthodox Judaism - Glassgold, Judith M. (Women & Therapy, 2008)
Women who consider themselves traditional or conservative in the context of religious practice often experience tremendous conflicts regarding the integration of same-sex emotional and sexual feelings with their religion and spirituality. Current religious teachings about homosexuality make this combination difficult as only heterosexual sexuality within marriage is permitted in most orthodox faiths. Further, the way that spirituality and sexuality are conceptualized as opposing dichotomous categories (e.g., body vs. soul) presents women with a framework where integration does not seem possible. Observant women who come to psychotherapy often experience tremendous distress, guilt, depression, and even suicidality due to the conflict between their sexual feelings and religious doctrine. Relieving the distress, and resolving the conflicts while honoring the emotional complexity of sexual feelings, spirituality, and religious orthodoxy can present tremendous dilemmas for the practitioner as well as the client. Using the example of psychotherapy of an Orthodox Jewish woman who integrated same-sex desire into her life, this article describes psychotherapy process and alternative ways of viewing spirituality and sexuality that permit possible resolutions for clients. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: lesbianism; orthodox Judaism; religiosity; spirituality; psychotherapy; psychotherapeutic processes; Judaism; Lesbianism; Psychotherapeutic Processes; Religiosity; Sexuality; Psychotherapy; Spirituality

Is there a right not to know one’s sex? The ethics of ‘gender verification’ in women’s sports competition - Wiesemann, Claudia (Journal of Medical Ethics: Journal of the Institute of Medical Ethics, 2011)
The paper discusses the current medical practice of ‘gender verification’ in sports from an ethical point of view. It takes the recent public discussion about 800 m runner Caster Semenya as a starting point. At the World Championships in Athletics 2009 in Berlin, Germany, Semenya was challenged by competitors as being a so called ‘sex impostor’. A medical examination to verify her sex ensued. The author analyses whether athletes like Semenya could claim a right not to know that is generally acknowledged in human genetics and enforced by international and national genetic privacy laws. The relevance of this right for genetic diagnosis in sports is discussed. To this end, the interests of the athlete concerned and of third parties are balanced according to the expected benefits and harms. Harm is documented in a number of cases and includes unjustified disqualification, severe sex and gender identity crisis, demeaning reactions, social isolation, depression and suicide. Benefits are dubious as most cases of intersex are considered irrelevant for sports competition. It has to be concluded that the benefits to be gained from ‘gender verification’ in sports via genetic testing do not outweigh the grave individual disadvantages. The current practice of athletic associations to largely ignore the right of competitors not to know does not comply with prevailing ethical provisions on the protection of sensitive personal data. Therefore, genetic ‘gender verification’ in sports should be abolished. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: ethics; gender verification; women; sports competition; athletics; intersex; Disorders of Sex Development; Female; Genetic Counseling; Humans; Male; Sex Characteristics; Sex Determination Analysis; Sports; Truth Disclosure; Athletes; Competition; Ethics; Hermaphroditism; Sports; Human Sex Differences; Intersex Conditions

Gender differences in health and risk behaviors among bisexual and homosexual adolescents - Saewyc, Elizabeth M.; Bearinger, Linda H.; Heinz, Patricia A.; Blum, Robert W.; Resnick, Michael D. (Journal of Adolescent Health, 1998)
Explored gender differences in the health and risk behaviors of 394 self-identified bisexual and homosexual adolescents who participated in an anonymous, school-based survey. Respondents included 182 female Ss and 212 male Ss; female Ss were significantly younger than male Ss, so respondents were further grouped as younger (≤14 yrs) and older (≥15 yrs) for analysis. Chi-square was used to test for gender differences in health perceptions and risk behaviors. Items included general health perceptions and health care access, body image and disordered eating behaviors, sexual behaviors, alcohol use, and emotional health measures including mood, life satisfaction, and suicidal ideation and attempts. Results show that both younger and older female Ss were significantly more likely than their male age mates to report a history of sexual abuse, dissatisfaction with weight, a negative body image, more frequent dieting, and an earlier age at onset of sexual intercourse. Both younger and older boys were significantly more likely than girls to have a positive body image, to rate themselves as healthier than peers, to report no regular source of health care, to be sexually experienced, and to drink alcohol more often and in greater quantity. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2017 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: sex & age; health & risk behaviors; self-identified bisexual & homosexual adolescents; Adolescent; Adolescent Behavior; Affect; Bisexuality; Feeding and Eating Disorders; Female; Health Services Accessibility; Health Status; Homosexuality; Humans; Male; Risk-Taking; Self Concept; Sex Factors; Sexual Behavior; Age Differences; Health Behavior; Homosexuality; Human Sex Differences; Risk Taking; Bisexuality

Self-reported suicide attempts and associated risk and protective factors among secondary school students in New Zealand - Fleming, Theresa M.; Merry, Sally N.; Robinson, Elizabeth M.; Denny, Simon J.; Watson, Peter D. (Australian and New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry, 2007)
Objective: To examine associations between individual, family, school and community characteristics and rates of suicide attempts in a national population sample of New Zealand secondary school students. Method: A total of 9570 randomly selected 9- to 13-year-old students from 114 schools were surveyed, using the New Zealand Adolescent Health Survey. This is a 523-item anonymous self-report comprehensive questionnaire delivered by Multi-Media Computer-Assisted Self-Interviewing. Multivariate analyses were used to examine correlates of self-reported suicide attempts within the last 12 months. Results: In total, 739 participants (4.7% of males and 10.5% of females) reported having made a suicide attempt within the last 12 months. Depressive symptoms, alcohol abuse, having a friend or family member attempt suicide, family violence and non-heterosexual attractions were independently associated with increased rates of suicide attempts while parents caring, other family members caring, teachers being fair and feeling safe at school were independently associated with decreased rates of suicide attempts. Caring friendships, attending worship frequently, possible sexual abuse and anxiety symptoms were not independently associated with suicide attempts. Risk and protective factors operated in the same way for male and female students and for those with and without other suicide predictors. Conclusions: New Zealand secondary school students, particularly female students, report high rates of suicide attempts. Risk of suicide attempts is lower in students reporting caring home and fair, safe school environments and this effect remains once depression is taken into account. This study confirms the importance of depression, substance use, problem behaviour, negative life events, exposure to suicide behaviour by others and the significance of sexual orientation in suicidal behaviour among school students and provides evidence of the importance of the family and school environments in reducing risk among this group. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: self-report; suicide attempts; risk factors; protective factors; secondary school students; individual & family & community characteristics; Adolescent; Child; Cross-Sectional Studies; Depressive Disorder; Family Relations; Female; Health Surveys; Humans; Male; New Zealand; Risk Factors; Social Environment; Students; Suicide, Attempted; Surveys and Questionnaires; Attempted Suicide; Family; Protective Factors; Risk Factors; Self-Report; Communities

Review of Unequal opportunity: Health disparities affecting gay and bisexual men in the United States - Murray, Joseph F. (Journal of Gay & Lesbian Mental Health, 2009)
Reviews the book, Unequal Opportunity: Health Disparities Affecting Gay and Bisexual Men in the United States edited by R. J. Wolitski, R. Stall, and R. O. Valdiserri (2008). The editors document the story of health disparities affecting men who have sex with men (MSM) in the United States. The first half makes the case that MSM, as compared to the general male population, are more likely to suffer childhood sexual abuse, be the victim of intimate partner violence, experience a hate crime, suffer from psychiatric disorders, attempt suicide, and are at greater risk of contracting sexually transmitted diseases. The second half builds upon the foundation laid in the first half with a series of wide-ranging essays. This book is most useful for those clinicians who treat gay and bisexual men. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: unequal opportunities; health disparities; gay men; bisexual men; childhood sexual abuse; intimate partner violence; hate crime; psychiatric disorders; suicide; sexually transmitted diseases; Bisexuality; Male Homosexuality; Social Equality; Health Disparities; Hate Crimes; Intimate Partner Violence; Mental Disorders; Sexual Abuse; Sexually Transmitted Diseases; Suicide

Attempted suicide and associated risk factors among youth in urban Japan - Hidaka, Yasuharu; Operario, Don; Takenaka, Mie; Omori, Sachiko; Ichikawa, Seiichi; Shirasaka, Takuma (Social Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology: The International Journal for Research in Social and Genetic Epidemiology and Mental Health Services, 2008)
Background: Suicide is a major social and health issue in Japan. We assessed prevalence of attempted suicide and explored individual, interpersonal, behavioral, and psychological risk factors associated with attempted suicide in a general community sample of youth in a metropolitan Japanese city. Method: Survey of 2,095 participants age between 15 and 24 who were recruited using street-intercept techniques. Results: Overall, 6% of males and 11% of females reported a prior suicide attempt. For males, attempted suicide was independently associated with experience of school bullying, being homosexual or bisexual, history of drug use, experience of unwanted sex, history of a diagnosed sexually transmitted infection, and low self-esteem. For females, attempted suicide was independently associated with being younger (ages 15-19 compared to 20-24), experience of school bullying, history of drug use, and history of smoking. Conclusion: Prevention intervention programs for youth in Japan are necessary to achieve national aims to reduce attempted suicides and suicide mortality. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: attempted suicide; risk factors; prevalence rate; Adolescent; Adult; Female; Humans; Japan; Male; Mental Disorders; Prospective Studies; Risk Factors; Suicide, Attempted; Surveys and Questionnaires; Urban Population; Attempted Suicide; Epidemiology; Risk Factors

Let's not get it twisted: Bullying is the result, not the problem - Bates, D. Dionne (Annals of Psychotherapy & Integrative Health, 2011)
Comments on an article by I. R. Javors (see record [rid]2011-02821-009[/rid]). I concur with author Irene Javors (2010); bullying is not a new issue. I think it is safe to say any minority or marginalized population can attest to that. Interestingly, this bullying issue has gotten America's attention. Two factors, however, that continue to be minimized or excluded altogether in addressing the issue are 1) the incidents that occurred last fall involved youth and young adults who were bullied by others because of their sexual orientation or perceived sexual orientation and 2) who not only died but committed suicide. Certainly, individuals are bullied for a plethora of reasons, but research indicates that negative attitudes toward gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender individuals put LGBT youth at increased risk for verbal or physical harassment at school compared to other students. Therefore, we cannot discuss bullying or suicide in vague terms or only in terms of race, religion, disability, body image, etc., without also discussing sexual orientation and gender as primary contributors. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: bullying; epidemics; criminal behavior; society; leadership; Epidemics; Bullying; Criminal Behavior; Leadership

Suicidal behaviour in people with HIV/AIDS: A review - Komiti, Angela; Judd, Fiona; Grech, Paul; Mijch, Anne; Hoy, Jenny; Lloyd, John H.; Street, Alan (Australian and New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry, 2001)
Reviewed the existing literature on suicidal behavior in people with HIV/AIDS infection. A search was performed for articles that investigated and/or reviewed suicidal behavior in people with HIV at any stage of the illness. Only articles written in English were used in this review. Most studies have been done on homosexual/bisexual groups, with little data available for heterosexual populations or women. Studies show an increased rate of suicidal ideation, suicide attempts, and completed suicide in individuals with HIV/AIDS. Of note, there is a high prevalence of psychiatric illness and substance abuse in those with suicidal behavior. The increased rate of suicidal behavior in HIV-infected persons is consistent with findings in other medically ill groups with chronic, life-threatening disorders. However, assessment of any possible direct effect of HIV/AIDS on suicidal behavior is confounded by methodological limitations of many of the studies. It is suggested that more longitudinal studies encompassing other affected groups including heterosexual populations and women are needed to elucidate the relationship between suicidal behavior and HIV/AIDS. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: prevalence; suicidal ideation; attempted suicide; completed suicide; HIV; AIDS; risk factors; Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome; Behavior; Female; HIV Infections; Humans; Male; Suicide; Suicide, Attempted; Attempted Suicide; Epidemiology; HIV; Suicidal Ideation; Suicide; AIDS; Risk Factors

Mental Health Implications of Same-Sex Marriage: Influences of Sexual Orientation and Relationship Status in Canada and the United States - Mathy, Robin M.; Kerr, Shelly K.; Lehmann, Barbara A. (Journal of Psychology & Human Sexuality, 2003)
Marriage is a mental health protective factor and homosexuality is sometimes a risk factor. The combined effect of these factors on menial health was examined in this study. We conducted a secondary analysis of an international, cross-sectional survey completed in 2000 (N = 7,616). We examined risks of suicide ideations and attempts, behavioral problems, and treatment histories for male and female participants from Canada and the United States. We found significant relations between sexual orientation and suicidality in all four gender-country groups. We found significant associations between relationship status and suicidality for men but not women in both countries. Behavioral problems and treatment histories were equivocal. We discuss the mental health implications of these findings for same-sex marriage. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: mental health; same sex marriage; sexual orientation; relationship status; suicidality; Attempted Suicide; Lesbianism; Male Homosexuality; Marriage; Mental Health; Risk Factors; Same Sex Marriage; Sexual Orientation; Suicidality

A choice between fun or health? Relationships between nightlife substance use, happiness, and mental well-being - Sumnall, H.; Bellis, M. A.; Hughes, K.; Calafat, A.; Juan, M.; Mendes, F. (Journal of Substance Use, 2010)
Objective: To examine the substance use behaviours of young adults in Europe and to explore the association with self reported indices of mental well being, and the relative value of health. Method: 1341 16–35-year-olds, representing youth and young adults who routinely engage in nightlife, were surveyed in nine European cities. Participants self-completed questionnaires, designed to gather demographic, social, and behavioural data on historic and current substance use, risk behaviours, and mental well being. Results: Controlling for inter-country differences, we found that early initiation and frequency of use of a range of substances was associated with poorer life satisfaction, suicidal ideation, and hopelessness. Younger, more frequent substance users placed greater value on having fun than maintaining long-term health. Bi/homosexual participants were more likely to report hopelessness, suicidal thoughts, dissatisfaction with life, and preferring fun to health. Younger cocaine initiates were more likely to report considering suicide in the last 12 months than older initiates. Conclusions: These findings confirm the importance of early intervention for young substance users. Whilst our study does not make assumptions on causality, identification of substance use in nightclub attendees may be a good marker of comorbid disorders. It is important to recognize that negative mental states may also partly be a product of lifestyle and socioeconomic factors. Prevention and harm reduction interventions should recognize that the most at risk young people may discount future health gains from reducing their substance use. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: nightlife; substance use; happiness; mental well being; health; Drug Usage; Happiness; Health; Mental Health; Well Being

Needs assessment of transgendered people of color living in Washington, DC - Xavier, Jessica M.; Bobbin, Marilyn; Singer, Ben; Budd, Earline (International Journal of Transgenderism, 2005)
A needs assessment (N = 248) conducted in Washington, DC revealed that transgendered people of color are at high risk for HIV/AIDS, substance abuse, suicide and violence/crime victimization. Overall HIV prevalence was 25%, with 32% in natal males (MTFs, i.e., male-to-females). Four predictors for HIV positive status were identified through logistic regression-male sex at birth, a history of substance abuse, sexual assault, and unemployment. Substance abuse was found in nearly half the sample (48%) but only half of those (51%) had sought treatment for it. Thirty-eight percent reported experiencing suicidal ideation, with 63% of those attributing it to their gender issues. Of those with suicidal ideation, nearly half (49%, or 16% of the entire sample), went on to make attempt(s) to kill themselves. Forty three percent had been victims of violence or crime, including 13% who had been sexually assaulted. Knowledge of the Standards of Care of the Harry Benjamin International Gender Dysphoria Association was quite low (9%) and associated with white race, any higher education beyond high school, and access to sex reassignment surgery (SRS). Access to SRS, defined as obtaining vaginoplasties for natal males and chest surgeries for natal females, was just 4%. White race (versus all other races, p < .001) and female at birth (versus male, p < .01) were significantly associated with access to SRS. Use of hormones at some point during their lives was reported by 51% of participants. Thirty-five percent were currently taking hormones, with 72% acquiring their hormones from friends or on the street. Among natal males, 25% had injected silicone. Nineteen percent did not have their own living space, and employment, housing and job training were the most commonly-reported immediate needs of the sample. The results of this needs assessment provide evidence of an urgent need for increased medical and social services specific to transgendered people of color living in the District of Columbia. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: needs assessment; transgendered people of color; AIDS; substance abuse; suicide; crime victimization; unemployment; medical services; social services; risk factors; AIDS; Health Care Services; Needs Assessment; Risk Factors; Transsexualism; Blacks; Drug Abuse; Suicide; Unemployment; Victimization; Latinos/Latinas

From 'Male Bonding Rituals' to 'Suicide Tuesday': A Qualitative Study of Issues Faced by Gay Male Ecstasy (MDMA) Users - Klitzman, Robert (Journal of Homosexuality, 2006)
Use of MDMA and other club drugs has increased among gay men, but questions remain concerning the use, context, and popularity of these drugs; and views of their side effects. We interviewed in-depth 12 gay MDMA users in New York. MDMA had specific appeals to gay men, who often described isolation and stigmatization. Users underwent a period of initiation and social networks often became comprised of greater numbers of other users. Club environments fostered drug use and vice versa. Awareness of potential adverse effects varied and was minimized. Appropriate educational and prevention programs are needed to address these issues, and must take into account the specific contexts of these gay men's lives. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: male bonding rituals; suicide Tuesday; gay male ecstasy users; social networks; MDMA; drug use; side effects; Adolescent; Adult; Homosexuality, Male; Humans; Interpersonal Relations; Male; Middle Aged; N-Methyl-3,4-methylenedioxyamphetamine; New York City; Sexual Behavior; Social Isolation; Socialization; Street Drugs; Substance-Related Disorders; Attachment Behavior; Drug Abuse; Male Homosexuality; Methylenedioxymethamphetamine; Side Effects (Drug); Social Networks

My culture wars - Johnson, Scott (Journal of Feminist Family Therapy: An International Forum, 2005)
It's fashionable to see the so-called culture wars as fought between people--blue staters and red staters, Republicans and Democrats. But it is hard, as a therapist, to take all that too seriously. The data on attitudes toward gays and lesbians, for example, is clearly schizophrenic. Pew Research reports, for instance, that while most Americans oppose same sex marriage, 54% believe gays and lesbians are equally good parents as heterosexuals. The General Social Survey of 2002 continues to suggest, as it has for decades, that most Americans believe sex between adults of the same sex is wrong. A majority, according to Gallup-53%-favor either same sex marriage or civil unions. The picture these numbers paint is less of a cluster of homophobes lurking in bible belt strongholds, threatening some small band of left coast free thinkers. Ambiguity reigns on other issues. Gallup reports in 2004 that 79% of the country thinks suicide is morally wrong, yet 53% say doctor assisted suicided is morally acceptable. As a therapist, my best guess is that our tendency to talk about things like conservatives and liberals or Republicans and Democrats comes at least partly from psychological splitting- our unconscious desire to project onto others aspects of ourselves we feel unsure about. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2017 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: culture wars; Republicans; Democrats; same sex marriage; suicide; doctor assisted suicide; Humor; Political Parties; Politics; Same Sex Marriage; Society; Cross Cultural Differences

Exploration of the resilience construct in posttraumatic stress disorder sensitivity and functional correlates in military combats veterans who have served since September 11, 2001 - Green, Kimberly T.; Calhoun, Patrick S.; Dennis, Michelle F.; Beckham, Jean C. (The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, 2010)
Objective: This study evaluated the relationship between resilience and psychological functioning in military veterans deployed to a region of military conflict in support of Operation Enduring Freedom or Operation Iraqi Freedom. Method: 497 military veterans completed a structured psychiatric interview and questionnaires measuring psychological symptoms, resiliency, and trauma exposure. The study had 2 primary aims: (1) to examine whether the association between trauma exposure and PTSD was moderated by resilience and (2) to examine whether resilience was uniquely associated with functional outcomes after accounting for PTSD. Measures included the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV-TR Axis I Disorders (for PTSD diagnosis), the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale, and the Traumatic Life Events Questionnaire. Data were collected between June 2005 and February 2009. Results: Evaluating the association of resilience and trauma exposure with PTSD revealed main effects for combat exposure, lifetime trauma exposure, and resilience. Additionally, there was a significant (P < .05) interaction between combat exposure and resilience such that higher levels of resilience were particularly protective among individuals with high combat exposure. After controlling for age, gender, minority status, trauma exposure, and PTSD diagnosis, resilience was uniquely associated with decreased suicidality, reduced alcohol problems, lower depressive symptom severity, and fewer current health complaints and lifetime and past-year medical problems. Conclusions: These results suggest that resilience is a construct that may play a unique role in the occurrence of PTSD and severity of other functional correlates among deployed veterans. Future studies in this area would benefit from a prospective design, the evaluation of other possible protective processes (eg, social support), and specific examination of particular aspects of resilience and how resilience may be increased. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: resilience construct; posttraumatic stress disorder sensitivity; military combat veterans; war; PTSD; September 11; Adult; Afghan Campaign 2001-; Combat Disorders; Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders; Female; Humans; Interview, Psychological; Iraq War, 2003-2011; Male; Middle Aged; Personality Inventory; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales; Psychometrics; Resilience, Psychological; Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic; Veterans; Young Adult; Combat Experience; Military Veterans; Posttraumatic Stress Disorder; Resilience (Psychological); Sensitivity (Personality); War

Enactment of gay rights laws in US states and trends in adolescent suicide: An investigation of Non-Hispanic White boys - Jesdale, Bill M.; Zierler, Sally (Journal of the Gay & Lesbian Medical Assn, 2002)
To estimate the decline in adolescent suicide rates in temporal relation to enactment of state laws offering protection from discrimination against sexual minorities. From 1990 to 1999, 9,639 non-Hispanic White boys aged 11-18 years committed suicide in the United States. We compared rates before and after enactment of laws prohibiting discrimination on sexual orientation. States that enacted antidiscrimination laws had a reduction of 29.1 suicides per million non-Hispanic White boys per year relative to states that have never enacted these laws. Relative to the same states before enactment of protective laws, the rate reduction was 19.7 suicides per million boy-years. Efforts to reduce heterosexual societal prejudice may affect a severe health outcome. Validation of the ecologic assumptions in this analysis is necessary. Complementary approaches are needed to enhance our understanding of this finding. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: adolescent suicide trends; non-Hispanic White males; sexual orientation; antidiscrimination law enactment; gay rights laws; Civil Rights; Homosexuality; Laws; Social Discrimination; Suicide; Human Males; Legal Processes; Trends; Whites

Where risks and protective factors operate differently: Homeless sexual minority youth and suicide attempts - Walls, N. Eugene; Potter, Cathryn; Van Leeuwen, James (Child & Adolescent Social Work Journal, 2009)
Using a sample of 628 homeless youth and young adults from eight US cities, this study examines whether the relationship between having been in custody of social services and suicide attempts, and the relationship between engaging in survival sex and suicide attempts differ based on sexual orientation. Findings suggest that being in custody of social services is associated with a significant increase in likelihood of suicide attempts for heterosexual youth, it does not, however, significantly change the already increased risk of suicide attempts for sexual minority youth. Engaging in survival sex appears to be associated with increased risks of suicide attempts for both heterosexual and sexual minority youth, but the increase in likelihood is much stronger for heterosexual youth than for sexual minority youth. Implications for practice and future research are discussed. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: risk factors; protective factors; homeless sexual minority youth; suicide attempts; young adults; social services; survival sex; Attempted Suicide; Homeless; Risk Factors; Sexual Orientation; Social Services; Minority Groups; Protective Factors; Sexual Minority Groups

Support networks of gay male and lesbian youth - Grossman, Arnold H.; Kerner, Matthew S. (Journal of Gay, Lesbian, & Bisexual Identity, 1998)
Examined support networks of 90 self-identified urban gay male and lesbian youth (aged 14–21 yrs). Ss completed 3 questionnaires designed to measure sociodemographics, risk-factors and perceived support. Ss indicated an average of 8 persons in their support networks, most of whom were close friends. Other significant groups included were parents, siblings, other relatives, and lovers or partners. A large majority of the support network members knew that the youth were gay or lesbian. Ss were moderately to very satisfied with the support they received from the network members-being more satisfied with the support provided by those who knew of their homosexuality compared to those who suspected or were unaware. Nonetheless, Ss youth felt that they did not have enough friends, and that they often too seldom felt lonely. These 2 feelings correlated positively with suicide ideation and attempts; and feeling lonely also correlated positively with drug use. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: support networks; 14–21 yr olds self-identified urban gay males & lesbians; Lesbianism; Male Homosexuality; Social Support

Review of Deadly Lessons: Understanding Lethal School Violence and Rampage: The Social Roots of School Shootings - Klein, Jessie (Men and Masculinities, 2006)
Reviews the books, Deadly Lessons: Understanding Lethal School Violence edited by M. H. Moore, C. Petrie, A. Braga, and B. L. McLaughlin (2003); and Rampage: The Social Roots of School Shootings by K. S. Newman, C. Fox, D. Harding, J. Mehta, and W. Roth (see record [rid]2004-00301-000[/rid]). After the shocking recent spate of school shootings in communities previously thought to be among the safest in the United States, Congress asked the National Research Council (NRC) to study the roots of school violence. The result is two books. Deadly Lessons: Understanding Lethal School Violence, written by the NRC team, examines two urban cases and four suburban-rural cases. Rampage: The Social Roots of School Shootings, by NRC committee member Katherine S. Newman and four Harvard graduate students who helped her, examines two of those cases in greater depth and detail. Together, these books go beyond popular explanations for school shootings-lax gun control laws, bullying, and media images of violence. They both similarly conclude that no single factor is to blame but rather that a combined set of variables increases a community's vulnerability to school shootings. Despite giving exhaustive details on the shootings and offering many valuable insights-the role of gun access, marginal students, masculinity scripts advocating violence-these two volumes do not effectively analyze significant trends both visible in the school shootings and reminiscent of serious social problems in schools more generally: harassment of students perceived as gay, violence against girls, and a culture of bullying. The biggest challenge thus goes unaddressed: how to transform the masculine social norms and cultural ideologies that have contributed to such behaviors and, by extension, to fatal teen violence. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: school violence; school shootings; social factors; School Violence; Schools; Social Influences

Sexual orientation and gender identity in youth suicide victims: An exploratory study - Renaud, Johanne; Berlim, Marcelo T.; Begolli, Melissa; McGirr, Alexander; Turecki, Gustavo (The Canadian Journal of Psychiatry / La Revue canadienne de psychiatrie, 2010)
Objective: Our study was designed to explore additional outcome variables of a suicide case-control study to determine the association between sexual orientation and gender identity in suicide completion in children and adolescents. Method: Fifty-five child and adolescent suicide victims and 55 community control subjects were assessed using semi-structured, proxy-based interviews and questionnaires regarding sexual orientation and gender issues, psychopathological diagnoses, and service use. Results: In our sample, no significant differences between suicide victims and control subjects were found regarding same-sex sexual orientation nor intimidation related to same-sex sexual orientation. Suicide victims with same-sex sexual orientation were more likely than suicide victims without same-sex sexual orientation, to meet criteria for anxiety disorders. Within the month preceding their deaths, these youth were more likely to have consulted a health professional, a psychiatrist, as well as having been hospitalized, and were more likely to have consulted a psychiatrist in the last year. Conclusions: In our sample, same-sex sexual orientation and gender identity issues do not appear to be more prevalent among youth who die by suicide, compared with youth recruited from the general population, nor for same-sex sexual-related intimidation. While exhibiting comparable levels of general psychopathological diagnoses associated with suicide, suicide victims with same-sex sexual orientation were more likely to meet criteria for anxiety disorders and to have consulted mental health professionals before their deaths. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: sexual orientation; gender identity; suicide victims; Adolescent; Age Factors; Anxiety Disorders; Case-Control Studies; Child; Counseling; Cross-Sectional Studies; Female; Gender Identity; Humans; Male; Mental Health Services; Risk Factors; Sexual Behavior; Suicide; Surveys and Questionnaires; Gender Identity; Sexual Orientation; Suicide

Eligibility and readiness criteria for sex reassignment surgery: Recommendations for revision of the WPATH Standards of Care - De Cuypere, Griet; Vercruysse, Herman Jr. (International Journal of Transgenderism, 2009)
In a review of the literature on follow-up studies of sex reassignment surgery (SRS) with regard to regret, suicide, and prognosis, this article evaluates the eligibility and readiness criteria of the WPATH Standards of Care—Sixth Version. Because the literature shows a lack of high-quality follow-up studies on large numbers of operated transsexuals, it offers no evidence-based research above evidence Level B or Level C. Nevertheless, our review allows us to conclude that most of the eligibility criteria are evidence-based. Although psychiatric co-morbidity is consistently mentioned in the literature as a negative predictive factor, it is barely addressed in the eligibility and readiness criteria for SRS. Therefore this paper suggests some changes and a shift in emphasis in the eligibility and readiness criteria of the Standards of Care. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: eligibility criteria; sex reassignment surgery; transsexuals; Surgery; Transsexualism; Gender Reassignment; Evaluation Criteria

Suicide attempts among sexual-minority youths: Population and measurement issues - Savin-Williams, Ritch C. (Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 2001)
Two questions were addressed regarding suicide attempts among sexual-minority youths: Who should be classified as a sexual minority, and what constitutes a suicide attempt? Results from 2 studies indicated that sexual-minority youths, broadly defined in terms of sexual orientation and recruitment venue, were slightly more likely than heterosexual youths to report a suicide attempt. To afford a more accurate assessment of suicide attempts, a detailed measure distinguished true from false attempts. This method eliminated over half of suicide attempt reports among sexual minorities because they were false attempts--ideation rather than a concrete act to end life. Furthermore, many true attempts were not life threatening, suggesting that the reports were attempts to communicate the hardships of lives or to identify with a gay community. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: suicide attempts; sexual-minority youths; population and measurement issues; Adolescent; Adolescent Behavior; Adult; Female; Gender Identity; Heterosexuality; Homosexuality; Humans; Male; Population Surveillance; Suicide, Attempted; Surveys and Questionnaires; Attempted Suicide; Homosexuality; Measurement; Population; Sexual Minority Groups

Effect of self-reported sexual arousal on responses to sex-related and non-sex-related disgust cues - Stevenson, Richard J.; Case, Trevor I.; Oaten, Megan J. (Archives of Sexual Behavior, 2011)
Prior to and during sexual intercourse, people are exposed to stimuli that in other contexts might act as disgust-eliciting cues. This study examined whether sexual arousal, in contrast to general arousal, could selectively reduce reported disgust for cues that pilot participants identified as sex or non-sex related. Male undergraduates were randomly assigned to one of four viewing groups. One group viewed erotic female images, a second clad female images, a third pleasantly arousing images (e.g., skydiving), and a fourth unpleasantly arousing images (e.g., an aimed gun). After the viewing phase, all participants were exposed to pairs of real disgust elicitors (sex versus non-sex related) drawn from various sensory modalities. Participants in the erotic images group, who rated being more sexually aroused than those in the other three groups, also reported being significantly less disgusted by sex-related elicitors. While the mechanism for this effect is not currently known, our findings suggest one plausible explanation for risky sexual behavior as well as having implications for the role of disgust in sexual dysfunction. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: self reported sexual arousal effects; sex related responses; non sex related disgust cues; Adult; Arousal; Consciousness; Cues; Erotica; Female; Humans; Male; Pattern Recognition, Visual; Photic Stimulation; Self Disclosure; Sexual Dysfunctions, Psychological; Visual Perception; Young Adult; Cues; Disgust; Psychosexual Behavior; Self-Report; Sexual Arousal

The teenager who has no name - Rothblum, Esther D.; Trant, Allison L.; Weir, Lisa C. (PsycCRITIQUES, 2006)
Reviews the book, The New Gay Teenager by Ritch C. Savin-Williams (see record [rid]2005-13497-000[/rid]). The book is about the interlocking but not overlapping dimensions of sexual orientation, identity, attraction, and behavior. Savin-Williams prepares the reader for a semipostmodern take on 21st-century sexuality as noncategorical. He describes 'the new gay teenager' as quite possibly the 'non-gay teenager,' explaining that they are anything but, when it comes to their sexuality. The teens Savin-Williams interviewed do not desire labels, definitions, descriptors, or meaning that can be understood apart from their everyday existence. Savin-Williams describes gay teens' disdain for sexual categories by asking questions, incorporating first-person accounts, providing scholarly historical narratives and research, and imparting insight into the current gay script of 'ordinary.' Savin-Williams is critical of the stereotype, most likely still prevalent among mental health professionals, that gay youth are suicidal, runaways, and substance abusers. He points out that some researchers may have been sampling from select clinical populations with little sense of what is going on in high schools today. Another author might have portrayed teens as deviant radical outsiders who are simply trying to cause waves in the system. Instead, Savin-Williams repeatedly stresses the resilience and adaptability of teenagers so that they come across as informed, articulate, and self-reflective. Overall, the personal accounts and narratives make for interesting reading; they provide a break from the theory and statistics. The older LGBT generation had very different experiences than it appears current generations are experiencing, but, needless to say, their activism was necessary for The New Gay Teenager to exist (both in identity and in hardback), much as the Second Wave of the women's movement was vital to feminism. Savin-Williams is in touch with the mindset of today's youth; he doesn't attempt to define them as others in the past have done. Instead, he lets teenagers speak for themselves. In this sense, the book is a complete rejection of old deficit models of homosexuality and a great read. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2017 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: sexual orientation; sexual identity; sexual attraction; sexual behavior; gay youth; homosexuality; Gender Identity; Homosexuality; Psychosexual Behavior; Sexual Attraction; Sexual Orientation

Sex-specific predictors of suicidality among runaway youth - Leslie, Michelle Burden; Stein, Judith A.; Rotheram-Borus, Mary Jane (Journal of Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychology, 2002)
Examined predictors of suicidality (ideation and attempts) among 348 adolescent runaways (aged 12-19 yrs) using sex-specific models that tested the impact of the 3 domains of the Social Action Model: individual characteristics, interpersonal influences, and life events. 25% of the girls and 14% of the boys had attempted suicide at least once. Male suicidality was mainly predicted by individual characteristics: identifying as gay, emotional distress, fewer conduct problems, and avoidant reasons for drug use. The interpersonal influence of suicidal friends also predicted suicidality. Variables from all 3 domains influenced girls: individual characteristics of lower age, lower self-esteem, and emotional distress; interpersonal influence of suicidal friends; and life events of having lived on the streets and assaults. Findings suggest some sex-specific interventions, but decreasing emotional distress and lessening the influence of suicidal friends may be useful for both boys and girls. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: sex-specific predictors; Social Action Model; suicidality; suicidal ideation; suicide attempts; adolescent runaways; individual characteristics; interpersonal influences; life events; Adolescent; Cross-Sectional Studies; Female; Homeless Youth; Humans; Incidence; Individuality; Life Change Events; Life Style; Male; New York City; Risk Factors; Sex Factors; Social Facilitation; Suicide, Attempted; Urban Population; Attempted Suicide; Human Sex Differences; Models; Prediction; Suicidal Ideation; Interpersonal Influences; Life Experiences; Personality Traits; Runaway Behavior; Suicidality

Lesbian studies and activism in India - Vanita, Ruth (Journal of Lesbian Studies, 2007)
This essay surveys public debates and writings about lesbianism and the history of activism around lesbian issues in twentieth-century India. Weddings between women and joint suicides by female couples over the last twenty-five years are among the under-researched, but increasingly reported, phenomena that suggest future directions that activism and the study of lesbianism in India may take. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: lesbian studies; activism; history; public debates; writings; Activism; Debates; History; Lesbianism

Evidencing a need: School counselors' experiences with gay and lesbian students - Fontaine, Janet H. (Professional School Counseling, 1998)
This study examined the extent to which school counselors had worked with 2 types of sexual identity issues—adolescents questioning their sexual identity and those clearly identifying as gay or lesbian. At the junior and senior high school level, more than 93% of responding counselors had contact with students dealing with sexual identity issues. In addition, 21% of elementary counselors saw students with these concerns, which is contrary to what many elementary counselors' believe, that is, the issue of homosexuality is developmentally premature for their level of students. In this study many of the types of problems presented to counselors by gay and lesbian youth were similar to those documented in previous research—self-doubt, depression, poor self-esteem, social isolation, and fear of exposure to family and friends. 37% of counselors reported that the gay and lesbian youths they had seen had either made suicide attempts or contemplated suicide. Ss were 24–58 yr old school counselors. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2018 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: extent of & needs in work with adolescents questioning their sexual identity or those identifying as gay or lesbian; 24–58 yr old elementary vs junior & senior high school counselors; Gender Identity; Homosexuality; Needs; School Counseling; Sexual Orientation; Elementary School Students; High School Students; Junior High School Students; School Counselors

'Navigating community institutions: Black transgender women’s experiences in schools, the criminal justice system, and churches': Erratum - Graham, Louis F.; Crissman, Halley P.; Tocco, Jack; Lopez, William D.; Snow, Rachel C.; Padilla, Mark B. (Sexuality Research & Social Policy: A Journal of the NSRC, 2014)
Reports an error in 'Navigating community institutions: Black transgender women’s experiences in schools, the criminal justice system, and churches' by Louis F. Graham (Sexuality Research & Social Policy: A Journal of the NSRC, Advanced Online Publication, Feb 11, 2014, np). In the original article, all co-authors were omitted. The correct author group of this article is present in the erratum. (The following abstract of the original article appeared in record [rid]2014-05599-001[/rid]). Young transgender women, especially those of color, are negatively impacted by suicidality, HIV, residential instability, survival sex work, and other challenges. This study used an oral narrative approach to collect life histories of 10 young black transwomen between 18 and 24 years of age residing in Detroit, Michigan. This study used grounded theory analysis to explore institutional violence, discrimination, and harassment (VDH). Participants described their experiences navigating three community institutions (schools, the criminal justice system, and churches) and broader society. Results highlight VDH through gender policing at school, sexual victimization in the criminal justice system, and negative judgment of gender variation in faith-based institutions. Participants reference the essential role of support systems, including other transgender individuals, in both their gender identity development and the navigation of institutions. Significant policy intervention is needed to protect and support transwomen, and prevent VDH perpetuated against them. Across all institutions, policy and practice interventions can focus on use of transgender appropriate and sensitive language, prevention of physical and sexual assaults, and anti-discrimination measures. Specific policy recommendations and future research directions are outlined. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: Transgender; Violence; Discrimination; Social support; Narrative; Criminal Behavior; Harassment; Violence; Transgender; Grounded Theory; HIV; Human Females; Social Support

Use of school-based health centres for mental health support in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia - Szumilas, Magdalena; Kutcher, Stan; LeBlanc, John C.; Langille, Donald B. (The Canadian Journal of Psychiatry / La Revue canadienne de psychiatrie, 2010)
Objective: To determine whether students with self-reported needs for mental health support used school-based health centres (SBHCs) for this purpose. Method: A secondary analysis was conducted on self-reported data collected from 1629 high school students from Cape Breton, Nova Scotia. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression analyses were employed to determine the influence of sex, grade, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status (SES), school performance, social involvement, and health risk-taking behaviours on need for mental health support and use of SBHC for that purpose. Results: One-half of surveyed students reported needs for mental health support. Risk for depression was the most commonly reported indicator of need. Only 13% of students visited a SBHC nurse for mental health support, and 4 times as many females than males used the SBHC for this purpose (20.4%, compared with 5.3%, P < 0.001). There was a significantly increased likelihood of use of SBHC for mental health support, given the presence of a greater number of need factors. Multivariate logistic regression determined that female sex (OR 5.57, 95% CI 3.07 to 10.09), lower SES factor (OR 1.19, 95% CI 1.11 to 1.28), sexual health risk-taking behaviours (OR 1.72, 95% CI 1.28 to 2.31), and suicidal behaviour (OR 1.83, 95% CI 1.48 to 2.27) were significantly associated with the use of SBHCs for mental health support. Conclusions: Substantial need for mental health support and significant unmet need were observed. In particular, male students underused the services relative to their self-reported need. Implications for SBHCs and directions for future research are discussed (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2020 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: use of school-based health centers; mental health support; high school students; sex; grade; sexual orientation; socioeconomic status; school performance; social involvement; health risk-taking behaviors; Adolescent; Age Factors; Cross-Sectional Studies; Female; Health Behavior; Health Services Needs and Demand; Health Surveys; Humans; Male; Mental Disorders; Mental Health Services; Nova Scotia; School Nursing; Sex Factors; Social Adjustment; Socioeconomic Factors; Students; Health Care Utilization; High School Students; Mental Health Services; School Based Intervention; Health Risk Behavior; Academic Achievement; Grade Level; Health Behavior; Human Sex Differences; Involvement; Risk Taking; Sexual Orientation; Social Interaction; Socioeconomic Status

Plans to hasten death among gay men with HIV/AIDS: Relationship to psychological adjustment - Goggin, Kathy; Sewell, M.; Ferrando, S.; Evans, S.; Fishman, B.; Rabkin, J. (AIDS Care, 2000)
Assessed the prevalence and nature of thoughts and future plans to end one's life in a group of gay men with HIV/AIDS over an 18-mo period. 167 HIV-positive men (aged 26–66 yrs) participated in a series of clinical interviews which measured current health status, current and past psychiatric disorders, current levels of distress, and thoughts and plans about ending their lives currently or at some future point. A small number of HIV-positive men (17%) reported serious thoughts or plans to end their lives at some point in the future which were stable over an 18-mo period. No differences in psychiatric or medical measures were observed among men with and without thoughts and plans at either assessment point. In the absence of current psychiatric disorders, such thoughts or plans about the future may represent one way to maintain control and independence in the face of the uncertainty of life with HIV illness. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: prevalence & nature of thoughts & future plans of suicide; 22–66 yr old gay males with HIV/AIDS; 18 mo study; Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome; Adult; Aged; HIV Infections; Homosexuality, Male; Humans; Longitudinal Studies; Male; Middle Aged; Prospective Studies; Self Disclosure; Suicide; Surveys and Questionnaires; AIDS; Future; HIV; Male Homosexuality; Suicidal Ideation; Cognitions; Suicide

The Relationship Between Self-Reported Sexual Orientation and Behavior in a Sample of Middle-Aged Male Injection Drug Users - Washington, Thomas Alex; Galai, Noya; Cohn, Sylvia; Celentano, David D.; Vlahov, David; Strathdee, Steffanie A. (Archives of Sexual Behavior, 2006)
Data are sparse on injection drug using (IDU) men who have sex with men (MSM). Previous literature suggests perceived taboos can result in an underreporting of atypical sexual orientation (i.e., bisexuality, homosexuality). As a result, HIV prevention programs have been difficult to mount, particularly programs for IDU-MSM. The association between self-reported sexual orientation and sexual behavior at semi-annual study visits was longitudinally assessed in a population of 1300 male IDUs in Baltimore during the period 1993 to 1998. Overall, a small minority (5%) of the male IDUs inconsistently reported their sexual orientation over time. Logistic regression analyses were performed, which yielded five significant predictors. These men tended to be older, to have been incarcerated, to have attended shooting galleries during follow-up, and were more than twice as likely to be HIV-seropositive (OR, 2.66; 95% CI, 1.62-4.36) compared with those who consistently reported their sexual orientation. Furthermore, men reporting inconsistent sexual orientation tended to engage in higher risk behaviors, suggesting that these men should be especially targeted for interventions. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: sexual orientation; injection drug usage; sexual behavior; Adult; Aged; Baltimore; Confidence Intervals; HIV Seropositivity; Health Behavior; Homosexuality, Male; Humans; Logistic Models; Longitudinal Studies; Male; Middle Aged; Odds Ratio; Risk-Taking; Sexual Partners; Substance Abuse, Intravenous; Surveys and Questionnaires; Intravenous Drug Usage; Psychosexual Behavior; Self-Report; Sexual Orientation

Lives in a chiaroscuro Should we suspend the puberty of children with gender identity disorder? - Giordano, S. (Journal of Medical Ethics: Journal of the Institute of Medical Ethics, 2008)
Transgender children who are not treated for their condition are at high risk of violence and suicide. As a matter of survival, many are willing to take whatever help is available, even if this is offered by illegal sources, and this often traps them into the juvenile criminal system and exposes them to various threats. Endocrinology offers a revolutionary instrument to help children/adolescents with gender identity disorder: suspension of puberty. Suspension of puberty raises many ethical issues, and experts dissent as to when treatment should be commenced and how children should be followed up. This paper argues that suspension of puberty is not only not unethical: if it is likely to improve the child's quality of life and even save his or her life, then it is indeed unethical to defer treatment. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: gender identity disorder; transgender youth; endocrinology; puberty suspension; ethics; Adolescent; Child; Crime Victims; Female; Gender Identity; Health Policy; Hormone Antagonists; Humans; Male; Puberty; Risk Assessment; Self Concept; Sexuality; Transsexualism; Endocrinology; Professional Ethics; Puberty; Transsexualism; Gender Dysphoria

Clustering of adolescent dating violence, peer violence, and suicidal behavior - Bossarte, Robert M.; Simon, Thomas R.; Swahn, Monica H. (Journal of Interpersonal Violence, 2008)
To understand the co-occurrence of multiple types of violence, the authors developed a behavioral typology based on self-reports of suicidal behaviors, physical violence, and psychological abuse. Using a sample of dating adolescents from a high-risk school district, they identified five clusters of behaviors among the 1,653 students who reported being abusive or violent in the past year. Victimization and perpetration with same-sex peers and dating partners clustered together among the students who reported the highest levels of abusive (n = 357) or violent behavior (n = 146). These students also reported high levels of suicidal behavior. There were few significant demographic differences across clusters. The implications of the results for the need to design and evaluate efforts to prevent multiple types of violence are discussed. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: adolescents; dating violence; peer violence; suicidal behavior; behavioral typology; self-report; physical violence; psychological abuse; Adolescent; Adolescent Behavior; Aggression; Courtship; Female; Humans; Male; Peer Group; Quality of Life; Risk Factors; Risk-Taking; Sexual Behavior; Students; Substance-Related Disorders; Suicide, Attempted; Surveys and Questionnaires; United States; Violence; Emotional Abuse; Peer Relations; Social Dating; Suicide; Violence; Adolescent Development; Self-Report; Taxonomies; Dating Violence

'Fulfilling the promise: Community response to the needs of sexual minority youth and families': Comment - Craig, John N. (American Journal of Orthopsychiatry, 1999)
Comments on the article by Steven E. James (see record [rid]1998-10370-011[/rid]), in which he uses the word 'queer' to refer to any gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgendered, or questioning individual. Although James may have good intentions, his use of the word threatens to propel into even more danger a community already facing high rates of depression, drug and alcohol abuse, and suicide. James is following the lead of many young people and academics in the gay community who have begun, in the past decade, to identify themselves as 'queer.' These individuals argue that when members of a group traditionally degraded by a particular word begin applying that word to themselves, such usage reverses the meaning of the term, giving it positive connotations--or at least reducing its negative impact. In my view, the use of this derogatory term by clinicians can damage the very clients we seek to help. At the very least, its use in clinical practice raises deeply disturbing questions that go to the heart of the most painful and difficult issues facing sexual minorities today. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: community-based supportive programming; needs; gay; lesbian; bisexual; transgendered; questioning youth; families; queer terminology; Gender Identity; Psychological Needs; Psychosexual Development; Sexual Orientation; Terminology; Bisexuality; Community Services; Lesbianism; Male Homosexuality; Transsexualism; Sexual Minority Groups

The prevalence of suicidal behaviours in a group of HIV-positive men - Shelton, A. J.; Atkinson, J.; Risser, J. M. H.; McCurdy, S. A.; Useche, B.; Padgett, P. M. (AIDS Care, 2006)
We studied a convenience sample of 54 HIV-positive men, recruited from HIV/AIDS community based service organizations. Data were collected on HIV risk factors and suicidal behaviours. Fifty-nine percent of the sample reported ever thinking about suicide, and 50% of those individuals reported attempting suicide at some point in their lives. Suicide ideation and attempts were more common among white participants. Suicidal behaviours were prevalent in this sample suggesting a need for mental health and suicide interventions targeted for this population. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: suicidal behaviors; HIV-positive men; community based service organizations; risk factors; AIDS; Adult; HIV Seropositivity; Heterosexuality; Homosexuality, Male; Humans; Male; Pilot Projects; Prevalence; Risk-Taking; Suicide, Attempted; Texas; AIDS; Community Services; Health Care Utilization; HIV; Suicide; Human Males; Risk Factors

Suicide and sexual orientation: Nearing the end of controversy? - Remafedi, Gary (Archives of General Psychiatry, 1999)
Comments on the articles by R. Herrell et al (see record [rid]1999-01131-001[/rid]) and D. M. Fergusson et al (see record [rid]1999-01131-002[/rid]) regarding the relation between sexual orientation and suicidal behavior. It is stated that these 2 articles add to the mounting evidence of a strong link between homosexuality and suicide. It is noted that both studies focus on special populations defined by military service or birth in Christchurch, New Zealand, limiting the generalizability of the findings to other places and types of persons. However, taken together with earlier studies, there can be little doubt about the conclusion that homosexual orientation is associated with suicidality, at least among young men. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: sexual orientation; suicidal ideation & attempts; 21 yr old gays & lesbians & bisexuals & middle aged veteran male twins in which 1 member reported having male sex partners in adulthood; commentary; Adolescent; Adult; Female; Homosexuality; Humans; Male; Mental Disorders; New Zealand; Risk Factors; Sex Factors; Sexual Behavior; Suicide; Twin Studies as Topic; Twins; At Risk Populations; Attempted Suicide; Homosexuality; Sexual Orientation; Suicidal Ideation; Bisexuality; Death Attitudes; Lesbianism; Male Homosexuality; Mental Disorders; Military Veterans; Psychosexual Behavior; Twins

Mentalizing in the therapeutic relationship with an older adolescent: The case of Fred - Lucente, Randolph (Psychoanalytical Social Work, 2009)
Tall, ruggedly handsome, and athletic, twenty-year-old Fred entered outpatient treatment at his own request after a brief psychiatric hospitalization. Observation had been required to avert a threatened but unspecified suicide attempt. The ostensible precipitant to his suicidal ideation, an acute bisexual panic which he was able to discuss haltingly and only with considerable difficulty, was the traumatic discovery of his sexual interest in his best male friend and roommate. Other important elements of his history included his popularity with peers, which was based significantly on his athleticism. Fred’s treatment commenced with an identity crisis of panic proportions, paradoxically permitting a smooth and natural process of engagement from the very outset wherein I provided a 'secure base' for the entire course of therapy. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: mentalizing; therapeutic relationship; older adolescent; outpatient treatment; Outpatient Treatment; Psychiatric Hospitalization; Psychotherapeutic Processes

Use of anabolic steroids and associated health risks among gay men attending London gyms - Bolding, Graham; Sherr, Lorraine; Elford, Jonathan (Addiction, 2002)
Examined, by HIV status, the use of anabolic steroids among 772 London gay men and their effect on physical and mental health. Ss completed a self-administered questionnaire. Of 772 gay men, 117 had used and 90 had injected steroids in the previous 12 mo. No one reported sharing needles or syringes. HIV positive men were more likely to have used steroids for medical reasons than other men. Nearly all steroid users reported side effects including testicular atrophy, insomnia, depression between cycles, and hypertension. Steroid users were more likely to have had suicidal thoughts in the previous 6 mo than non-users or to have felt depressed. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2020 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: HIV status; anabolic steroids; gay men; physical health; mental health; Adult; Anabolic Agents; Atrophy; Chi-Square Distribution; Cross-Sectional Studies; Depression; Exercise; HIV Seroprevalence; Homosexuality, Male; Humans; Hypertension; Logistic Models; London; Male; Needle Sharing; Odds Ratio; Sleep Initiation and Maintenance Disorders; Suicide; Testis; Health; HIV; Male Homosexuality; Mental Health; Steroids; Health Risk Behavior

Using visual media to reduce homophobia: A classroom demonstration - Walters, Andrew S. (Journal of Sex Education & Therapy, 1994)
A classroom demonstration using visual media was designed as a means for decreasing homophobia. During their 1st semester 31 college students were exposed to lectures on homosexuality and homophobia. During their 2nd semester 34 college students were exposed to the same lectures but were also exposed to slides and video scenarios that showed that gay/lesbian/bisexual characters in films and TV are often depicted as stereotyped, suicidal, or pathological. Homophobia and empathy for homosexuals were measured at the beginning and end of the term. Results show a significant decrease in homophobia and a significant increase in empathy among Ss exposed to the demonstration. Analogous changes in attitudes toward homosexuals were not found among Ss not exposed to the demonstration. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: visual media based classroom demonstration of history of gay & lesbian & bisexual characters in film; homophobia & empathy for homosexuals; college students; Empathy; Films; Homosexuality (Attitudes Toward); Teaching Methods; Bisexuality; Lesbianism; Male Homosexuality; Student Attitudes

Impact of sexual harassment victimization by peers on subsequent adolescent victimization and adjustment: A longitudinal study - Chiodo, Debbie; Wolfe, David A.; Crooks, Claire; Hughes, Ray; Jaffe, Peter (Journal of Adolescent Health, 2009)
Purpose: To examine gender differences in prevalence and types of sexual harassment victimization experienced in grade 9 and how it contributes to relationship victimization and psychological adjustment 2.5 years later. Methods: A total of 1734 students from 23 schools completed self-report surveys at entry to grade 9 and end of grade 11. Self-report data were collected on victimization experiences (sexual harassment, physical dating violence, peer violence, and relational victimization) and adjustment (emotional distress, problem substance use, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, maladaptive dieting, feeling unsafe at school, and perpetration of violent delinquency). Separate analyses by sex were prespecified. Results: Sexual harassment victimization was common among boys (42.4%) and girls (44.1%) in grade 9, with girls reporting more sexual jokes, comments, and unwanted touch than among boys, and with boys reporting more homosexual slurs or receiving unwanted sexual content. For girls, sexual harassment victimization in grade 9 was associated with elevated risk of self-harm, suicidal thoughts, maladaptive dieting, early dating, substance use, and feeling unsafe at school. A similar pattern of risk was found for boys, with the exception of dieting and self-harm behaviors. Adjusted odds ratios (AOR) indicated these students were significantly more likely than nonharassed students to report victimization by peers and dating partners 2.5 years later (AOR for boys and girls, respectively; all p < .01), including sexual harassment (AOR: 2.45; 2.9), physical dating violence (AOR: 2.02; 3.73), and physical peer violence (AOR: 2.75; 2.79). Gr 9 sexual harassment also contributed significantly to emotional distress (AOR: 2.09; 2.24), problem substance use (AOR: 1.79; 2.04), and violent delinquency perpetration (AOR: 2.1; 3.34) 2.5 years later (boys and girls, respectively; all p < .01). Conclusions: Sexual harassment at the beginning of high school is a strong predictor of future victimization by peers and dating partners for both girls and boys, and warrants greater prevention and intervention efforts. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2017 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: sexual harassment; peers; victimization; psychological adjustment; gender differences; prevalence; adolescent development; Adaptation, Psychological; Adolescent; Crime Victims; Female; Homosexuality, Female; Homosexuality, Male; Humans; Longitudinal Studies; Male; Ontario; Peer Group; Sex Factors; Sexual Harassment; Surveys and Questionnaires; Emotional Adjustment; Human Sex Differences; Peers; Sexual Harassment; Victimization; Epidemiology

Harmful alcohol consumption and patterns of substance use in HIV-infected patients receiving antiretrovirals (ANRS-EN12-VESPA Study): Relevance for clinical management and intervention - Michel, Laurent; Carrieri, M. Patrizia; Fugon, Lionel; Roux, Perrine; Aubin, Henri-Jean; Lert, France; Obadia, Yolande; Spire, Bruno (AIDS Care, 2010)
Alcohol abuse affects secondary prevention and disease progression in HIV-infected patients, and adherence and response to treatment in those chronically treated. The objective of this study was to estimate the prevalence of harmful alcohol consumption (HAC) using various indicators and identify which groups of patients may require specific targeted interventions for HAC risk reduction. A cross-sectional survey, based on a random sample representative of people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) was carried out in 102 French hospital departments delivering HIV care. As alcohol abuse is particularly detrimental to patients receiving highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART), we focused only on those individuals receiving HAART with complete alcohol assessment (CAGE, AUDIT-C, regular binge drinking, N = 2340). Collected information included medical and socio-demographic data, HIV risk behaviors, adherence to treatment and substance and alcohol use, together with depression, anxiety, and experience of attempted suicide or sex work. HAC prevalence was evaluated as follows: 12% (CAGE score ≥ 2), 27% (AUDIT-C), and 9% (regular binge drinking). Three groups were at higher risk of HAC: men who have sex with men using stimulants, polydrug users, and to a lesser degree, ex-drug users. Innovative intervention strategies to reduce HAC and improve HIV prevention and HAART adherence in various PLWHA populations need urgent testing and implementation. Such interventions for alcohol risk reduction remain central to promoting improved HIV prevention and assuring HAART effectiveness in these populations. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: harmful alcohol consumption; substance use; HIV infected patients; antiretroviral therapy; clinical management; intervention; AIDS prevention; substance abuse; treatment adherence; Adult; Alcoholism; Antiretroviral Therapy, Highly Active; Cross-Sectional Studies; Female; France; HIV Infections; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Prevalence; Risk Factors; Risk-Taking; Substance-Related Disorders; Surveys and Questionnaires; Unsafe Sex; AIDS Prevention; Alcohol Abuse; Antiviral Drugs; HIV; Treatment Compliance; Disease Management; Drug Abuse; Drug Therapy; Intervention

A Review of Lesbian Depression and Anxiety - Kerr, Shelly K.; Emerson, Alice M. (Journal of Psychology & Human Sexuality, 2003)
The Surgeon General's first report on mental health identified depression and anxiety as significant mental health issues that disproportionately affect women. Research indicates that lesbians experience depression at rates that parallel those of the general female population, suggesting that depression is an important mental health issue for lesbians. Given the high rate of comorbidity between depression and anxiety disorders, it is likely that many depressed lesbians have struggled with problems related to anxiety as well. This paper reviews literature pertaining to lesbians and depression including incidence rates, risk factors, suicidality and treatment approaches, and stress and anxiety that may also contribute to the experience of depression among lesbians. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: lesbian depression; anxiety disorders; mental health; risk factors; suicidality; treatment approaches; comorbidity; Anxiety Disorders; Comorbidity; Lesbianism; Major Depression; Mental Health; Anxiety; Risk Factors; Suicide; Treatment; Suicidality

A visitation of difference: Randall Kenan and Black queer theory - McRuer, Robert (Journal of Homosexuality, 1993)
Uses R. Kenan's (1989) novel A Visitation of Spirits, which focuses on a Black gay youth growing up in a rural African-American community, to consider what cultural work is done when homosexual desire turns up in such an apparently unlikely and inhospitable place. Examining how region plays a role in the construction of centers and margins, an argument is made against always shuffling homosexual desire 'safely' off to the big city. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: role of rural region in Black homosexuality in R. Kenan's novel 'A Visitation of Spirits'; African Americans; Fantasy; Female; Gender Identity; Homosexuality; Humans; Literature, Modern; Male; Politics; Race Relations; Social Environment; Social Values; Suicide; Blacks; Homosexuality; Literature; Rural Environments

Educating Gay Male Youth: Since When is Pornography a Path Towards Self-Respect? - Kendall, Christopher N. (Journal of Homosexuality, 2004)
In 2000, in the case of Little Sisters Book and Art Emporium, the Canadian Supreme Court was asked to determine whether gay male pornography violated the sex equality protections guaranteed by the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Throughout this case, gay male activists and academics emphasised the risk posed by antipornography legal strategies to the dissemination of materials intended to promote safer sexual behaviour. Other arguments were advanced that gay male pornography should not be restricted because it serves as a learning tool for young men and, in so doing, does much to re- duce the alarming incidence of gay youth suicide. The author examines these assumptions within the context of the gay male pornography defended in Little Sisters. His conclusion is that the present gay male obsession with hyper-masculinity, best evidenced in the pornography now widely touted by some gay men as a source of gay male identity and freedom, undermines safer sexual practices and the self-respect needed to combat youth suicide. The author concludes that gay men must commit to a sexuality built on mutuality, respect and caring (i.e., an identity politic built around sex equality). (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: gay male youth; pornography; self-respect; sex equality; sexual behavior; Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome; Adolescent; Canada; Erotica; Female; Gender Identity; Homosexuality, Male; Humans; Interpersonal Relations; Male; Psychology, Adolescent; Psychosexual Development; Safe Sex; Self Concept; Sex Education; Suicide; Male Homosexuality; Pornography; Psychosexual Behavior; Self-Esteem; Sex Role Attitudes

Chronic oral treatment with isotretinoin alters measures of activity but not anxiety in male and female rats - Ferguson, Sherry A.; Berry, Kimberly J. (Neurotoxicology and Teratology, 2010)
Use of the anti-acne drug, Accutane® (ACC) (isotretinoin, 13-cis-retinoic acid), has been associated with neuropsychiatric events ranging from depression in animal models to depression and suicide ideation in humans. Our studies, however, have consistently indicated few effects on measures of depression in male and female rats. Still, the comorbidity of depression and anxiety suggests that anxiety assessments in ACC-treated rats could be informative. Such assessments must be balanced with measures of activity since drug-induced activity alterations may impact the expression of anxiety-like behaviors. Here, Sprague–Dawley rats (n = 15/sex/dose) were gavaged daily with 0 (soy oil), 7.5, or 30 mg/kg/day ACC beginning on postnatal day (PND) 59. Blood ACC levels similar to humans taking recommended ACC doses are produced by 7.5 mg/kg/day. Short-term activity was assessed in open fields prior to ACC treatment (PND 51) and again at PNDs 129 and 164 and in a complex environment at PNDs 66 and PND 184. Long-term residential activity was measured in running wheels (PNDs 85–92) and figure 8 mazes (PNDs 99–106). Anxiety-like behavior was assessed via elevated plus maze (EPM) activity on PND 98 and in a black/white apparatus on PND 125. The typical sex differences in most behaviors were exhibited (i.e., increased EPM open arm entries and overall activity in most measures in females); however, there were no significant effects of ACC treatment on open field activity, complex environment activity, residential running wheel activity, or EPM activity. Residential figure 8 maze activity indicated that male and female rats treated with 30 mg/kg/day were less active on all nights (p < 0.05) and females treated with 7.5 or 30 mg/kg/day were less active than same-sex controls on most days (p < 0.05). Similarly, rats of both sexes treated with 30 mg/kg/day were significantly less active in the black/white apparatus (p < 0.05), entering the darkened area less frequently (p < 0.05), although duration in the darkened area did not differ. These data indicate that at blood levels typically achieved by humans (i.e., the 7.5 mg/kg group), there are no significant anxiogenic effects associated with ACC treatment. At higher ACC levels, there are mild effects on activity but these appear to be apparatus- and/or age-specific. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: chronic oral treatment; isotretinoin; activity measurement; anxiety; rats; Adaptation, Physiological; Administration, Oral; Animals; Behavior, Animal; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Exploratory Behavior; Female; Isotretinoin; Locomotion; Male; Maze Learning; Rats; Rats, Sprague-Dawley; Sex Characteristics; Teratogens; Activity Level; Anxiety; Drugs; Psychopharmacology; Rats

Lesbian use and abuse of alcohol: Results of the Boston Lesbian Health Project II - Roberts, Susan Jo; Grindel, Cecelia Gatson; Patsdaughter, Carol A.; DeMarco, Rosanna; Tarmina, M. Suzanne (Substance Abuse, 2004)
The Boston Lesbian Health Project II, a national survey of 1,139 self-identified lesbian women, found higher rates of drinking alcohol, heavy alcohol intake and self reported alcoholism than in national studies of women in general. Several known risk factors for alcoholism were higher in lesbians who self defined as alcoholic in this sample: family history of alcoholism and drug abuse, rape and childhood sexual abuse and report of having made a suicide attempt. These findings are consistent with other studies that found a high rate of drinking alcohol, alcohol abuse and problem drinking among lesbians. The reasons for these findings are not clear and further research is needed to continue to explore the reasons. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: alcohol abuse; lesbians; alcohol use; Adolescent; Adult; Alcohol Drinking; Alcohol-Related Disorders; Boston; Community Mental Health Centers; Cross-Sectional Studies; Female; Health Surveys; Homosexuality, Female; Humans; Middle Aged; Risk Factors; Surveys and Questionnaires; Urban Population; Alcohol Abuse; Alcohol Drinking Patterns; Alcoholism; Lesbianism

Crystal methamphetamine: A source of added sexual risk for Hispanic men who have sex with men? - Fernández, M. Isabel; Bowen, G. Stephen; Warren, Jacob C.; Ibañez, Gladys E.; Hernandez, Nilda; Harper, Gary W.; Prado, Guillermo (Drug and Alcohol Dependence, 2007)
Objectives: To determine whether use of crystal methamphetamine increases HIV risk behaviors beyond the risk associated with use of other recreational drugs among Hispanic men who have sex with men (HMSM). Design: We compared the sexual behaviors and psychosocial characteristics of non-recreational drug users (non-users), recreational drug users who did not use crystal (non-crystal drug users), and recreational drug users who used crystal (crystal users). Methods: We recruited 294 HMSM from Internet and 272 from community venues. Eligible men completed an ACASI to assess socio-demographic factors, drug use, sexual behaviors and psychosocial factors and received $50. Results: In the multivariate model, crystal users were more likely than non-crystal drug users to have lower Hispanicism, higher attachment to the gay community, and history of suicide attempts. Crystal users were not significantly different from non-crystal drug users in number of sex partners; however, differences in unprotected receptive anal sex approached significance. Conclusions: The additional risk of crystal above that of other recreational drugs needs to be disentangled from those associated with poly-drug use. Our data suggest that it may depend on how one defines risky sexual behavior and is influenced by psychological, physiologic and social factors. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2018 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: crystal methamphetamine; added sexual risk; Hispanic men; homosexuality; sexual behaviors; psychosocial characteristics; recreational drugs; Adult; Amphetamine-Related Disorders; Central Nervous System Stimulants; Florida; HIV Infections; Hispanic Americans; Homosexuality, Male; Humans; Male; Methamphetamine; Risk-Taking; Sexual Behavior; Drug Abuse; Male Homosexuality; Methamphetamine; Psychosexual Behavior; Psychosocial Factors; Safe Sex; Sexual Partners; Latinos/Latinas

Accidental death due to complete autoerotic asphyxia associated with transvestic fetishism and anal self-stimulation—Case report - Atanasijević, Tatjana; Jovanović, Aleksandar A.; Nikolić, Slobodan; Popović, Vesna; Jašović-Gašić, Miroslava (Psychiatria Danubina, 2009)
A case is reported of a 36-year-old male, found dead in his locked room, lying on a bed, dressed in his mother's clothes, with a plastic bag over his head, hands tied and with a barrel wooden cork in his rectum. Two pornographic magazines were found on a chair near the bed, so that the deceased could see them well. Asphyxia was controlled with a complex apparatus which consisted of two elastic luggage rack straps, the first surrounding his waist, perineum, and buttocks, and the second the back of his body, and neck. According to the psychological autopsy based on a structured interview (SCID-I, SCID-II) with his father, the deceased was single, unemployed and with a part college education. He had grown up in a poor family with a reserved father and dominant mother, and was indicative of fulfilling DSM-IV diagnostic criteria for alcohol dependence, paraphilia involving hypoxyphilia with transvestic fetishism and anal masturbation and a borderline personality disorder. There was no evidence of previous psychiatric treatment. The Circumstances subscale of Beck's Suicidal Intent Scale (SIS-CS) pointed at the lack of final acts (thoughts or plans) in anticipation of death, and absence of a suicide note or overt communication of suicidal intent before death. Integration of the crime scene data with those of the forensic medicine and psychological autopsy enabled identification of the event as an accidental death, caused by neck strangulation, suffocation by a plastic bag, and vagal stimulation due to a foreign body in the rectum. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2018 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: accidental death; autoerotic asphyxia; transvestic fetishism; anal self-stimulation; Accidents; Adult; Asphyxia; Borderline Personality Disorder; Erotica; Fetishism (Psychiatric); Homosexuality, Male; Humans; Male; Masochism; Masturbation; Paraphilic Disorders; Sexual Behavior; Transvestism; Accidents; Anoxia; Death and Dying; Fetishism; Self-Stimulation

Lifetime prevalence of suicide symptoms and affective disorders among men reporting same-sex sexual partners: Results from NHANES III - Cochran, Susan D.; Mays, Vickie M. (American Journal of Public Health, 2000)
Examined lifetime prevalence of suicide symptoms and affective disorders among males reporting a history of same-sex sexual partners. 3,648 males (aged 17–39 yrs) completed questionnaires concerning lifetime history of affective disorders and sexual behavior patterns. Ss were grouped into those reporting same-sex sexual partners, those reporting only female sexual partners, and those reporting no sexual partners. Groups were compared for histories of suicide symptoms and affective disorders. Results show a total of 2.2% of males reported same-sex sexual partners. These Ss evidenced greater lifetime prevalence rates of suicide symptoms than did male Ss reporting only female partners. However, homosexually/bisexually experienced males were no more likely than exclusively heterosexual males to meet criteria for lifetime diagnosis of other affective disorders. It is concluded that there is an increased risk for suicide symptoms among homosexually experienced males. Results also hint at a small increased risk of recurrent depression among gay males, with symptom onset occurring, on average, during early adolescence. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: suicide; affective disorders; males; homosexuality; symptoms; Adolescent; Adult; Bisexuality; Female; Heterosexuality; Homosexuality, Male; Humans; Male; Mood Disorders; Nutrition Surveys; Prevalence; Risk Factors; Sexual Partners; Suicide, Attempted; United States; Affective Disorders; Male Homosexuality; Suicide; Symptoms

The health and health behaviors of young men who have sex with men - Kipke, Michele D.; Kubicek, Katrina; Weissa, George; Wong, Carolyn; Lopez, Donna; Iverson, Ellen; Ford, Wesley (Journal of Adolescent Health, 2007)
Purpose: To describe the range of health and mental health problems for which young men who have sex with men (YMSM) may be at risk. Methods: An audio-computer-assisted survey was administered to a large, ethnically diverse sample of 526 YMSM (aged 18-24 years) recruited from bars, clubs, and other social venues using a venue-based probability sampling method. Results: Subjects reported a range of health and mental health problems, and involvement in health-compromising behaviors, such as overweight/obesity, depression, and suicidal thoughts/attempts, and many were found to have high rates of sexually transmitted infections. Moreover, many reported not having insurance coverage and/or limited access to care. Conclusions: Many of the health concerns and risks reported by these young men are preventable and can be addressed by any number of sectors, including health care and social service providers, religious organizations, schools, and employers. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2017 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: health; health behavior; young men have sex with men; at risk populations; mental health problems; Adult; Depression; Feeding Behavior; Female; HIV Seropositivity; Health Behavior; Health Services Accessibility; Health Status; Homosexuality, Male; Humans; Life Style; Los Angeles; Male; Mental Health; Obesity; Personal Satisfaction; Population Surveillance; Risk Assessment; Sexually Transmitted Diseases; Suicide, Attempted; At Risk Populations; Health; Health Behavior; Mental Health; Single Sex Environments

Life on the Seesaw: A Qualitative Study of Suicide Resiliency Factors for Young Gay Men - Fenaughty, John; Harré, Niki (Journal of Homosexuality, 2003)
While considerable research has highlighted the factors that increase gay youth suicide risk, there has been much less emphasis on protective factors. Using grounded theory methodology, we explored the suicide resiliency in eight young gay men in Aotearoa/New Zealand. Common themes emerged, including positive social norms and conditions, high levels of support, identification with role models and high self-esteem. These were integrated with 'known' risk factors to form the Seesaw Model of Gay Male Suicide. This model demonstrates that the balance between risk and resiliency may be the key to gay suicide. Depending on the balance of these factors, youth might either be resilient, attempt suicide, or teeter somewhere in between. The current findings indicate that gay youth suicide prevention requires efforts to increase resiliency factors for this group. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: gay youth; youth suicide prevention; protective factors; high self esteem; young gay men; social norms; suicide resiliency factors; Adaptation, Physiological; Adaptation, Psychological; Adult; Family Relations; Homosexuality, Male; Humans; Interviews as Topic; Male; Psychological Theory; Schools; Self Concept; Social Support; Stereotyping; Suicide; At Risk Populations; Male Homosexuality; Resilience (Psychological); Social Norms; Suicide; Emotional Stability; Protective Factors

Dual diagnosis issues with homosexual persons - Hellman, Ronald E. (Journal of Chemical Dependency Treatment, 1992)
Homosexual dual diagnosis clients often have complex, atypical presentations that challenge the clinician's diagnostic, empathic, and therapeutic management skills. Few therapists have had formal training in gay and lesbian identity development, theories of homosexuality, gay lifestyles, and effects of homophobia. Drug and psychiatric programs may overlook factors outside their disciplines. Since for the homosexual individual mental illness and drug addiction may be barriers to acceptance within the gay community, an informed and supportive therapist is a vital resource for these clients. Case examples of dual diagnoses are presented of (1) a 32-yr-old married Black man diagnosed with paranoid disorder with a homosexual focus and secondary alcoholism, (2) a 54-yr-old White lesbian woman who had attempted suicide and who had drinking problems and feelings of hopelessness, and (3) an effeminate, gay male iv drug abuser with a history of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: dual diagnosis & treatment; gay male 32 yr old with paranoid disorder & alcoholism & drug abusing 24 yr old with attention deficit disorder & alcohol abusing lesbian 54 yr old with suicide attempt; Drug Abuse; Dual Diagnosis; Homosexuality; Mental Disorders; Rehabilitation; Attempted Suicide; Attention Deficit Disorder; Lesbianism; Male Homosexuality; Paranoia (Psychosis); Substance Use Treatment

Gynecologic care of the female-to-male transgender man - Dutton, Lauren; Koenig, Karel; Fennie, Kristopher (Journal of Midwifery & Women's Health, 2008)
Transgender men are a vulnerable population whose health care needs have been difficult to identify because of limited research and an inability to identify the population. Limited evidence suggests that transgender men are at increased risk of having polycystic ovarian syndrome, contracting HIV, experiencing violence, and committing suicide. This qualitative study, conducted through face-to-face interviews of a convenient sample, was a three-part interview containing a demographic and health questionnaire, the Norbeck Social Support Questionnaire, as well as the Health Care Relationship Trust Scale. Audio recordings and written notes were reviewed and common themes were identified via content analysis. Six self-identified transgender men between the ages of 19 and 45 years were enrolled in the study. Participants were at varying degrees of social and medical transition. Four major themes were identified: 1) receiving gynecologic care was perceived to be important; 2) breasts caused the most gender identity conflict; 3) transgender men struggle with revealing their gender identity to health care providers; and 4) the male/female boxes on health intake forms, as well as pronoun usage by medical staff, were barriers to receiving health care. This gynecologic health care needs assessment of transgender men begins to characterize the barriers transgender men face when seeking health care. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: gynecologic care; female to male transgender men; health care needs; gender identity; Adult; Female; Gender Identity; HIV Infections; Health Services Needs and Demand; Humans; Interviews as Topic; Male; Risk Factors; Sexual Behavior; Suicide, Attempted; Transsexualism; Violence; Gynecology; Health Service Needs; Human Males; Transsexualism

Prediction of depressive distress in a community sample of women: The role of sexual orientation - Matthews, Alicia K.; Hughes, Tonda L.; Johnson, Timothy; Razzano, Lisa A.; Cassidy, Roberta (American Journal of Public Health, 2002)
Compared the prevalence of predictors of depressive distress in lesbians and heterosexual females. 550 lesbians and 279 heterosexual females (age <30-60+ yrs) completed questionnaires concerning demographic characteristics, experiences with depression, personal health history, health-related practices, mental health, use of legal and illegal substances, relationships, social support, sexual attraction and behavior, and access to and use of health and mental health services. Results show that 78% of lesbian subjects (Ss) and 56% of heterosexual Ss reported receiving therapy or counseling for an emotional or mental health problem at some point in their life. 56% of lesbian Ss and 49% of heterosexual Ss reported seeking therapy or counseling for depression. 26% of lesbian Ss and 20% of heterosexual Ss were prescribed medication for a mental or emotional problem. 51% of lesbian Ss and 38% of heterosexual Ss reported seriously considering suicide at some point in the past. Significantly more lesbian Ss than heterosexual Ss reported experiencing the strongest predictor of depressive distress, childhood sexual abuse. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: predictors; depression; distress; lesbians; heterosexual females; demographic characteristics; mental illness; drug usage; social support; sexual behavior; health services usage; Adaptation, Psychological; Chicago; Crime Victims; Depressive Disorder; Female; Health Status Indicators; Heterosexuality; Homosexuality, Female; Humans; Minnesota; New York City; Risk Factors; Sex Offenses; Sexual Behavior; Suicide, Attempted; Surveys and Questionnaires; Violence; Distress; Heterosexuality; Lesbianism; Major Depression; Prediction; Demographic Characteristics; Drug Usage; Health Care Utilization; Mental Disorders; Psychosexual Behavior; Social Support

Homosexuality and mental illness - Bailey, J. Michael (Archives of General Psychiatry, 1999)
Comments on the articles by R. Herrell et al (see record [rid]1999-01131-001[/rid]) and D. M. Fergusson et al (see record [rid]1999-01131-002[/rid]) regarding the relation between sexual orientation and suicidal behavior. It is contended that these 2 studies may contain the best published data on the association between homosexuality and psychopathology, and both converge on the same conclusion, namely, that homosexual people are at a substantially higher risk for some forms of emotional problems. It is suggested that the strength of these new studies is their degree of control; however, the most important limitation shared by the studies concerns the definition of homosexuality: Both studies included in the definition of a homosexual person any S who had had a same-sex sexual experience as an adult. It is proffered that homosexual orientation is usually assessed by patterns of sexual attraction and fantasy. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: sexual orientation; suicidal ideation & attempts; 21 yr old gays & lesbians & bisexuals & middle aged veteran male twins in which 1 member reported having male sex partners in adulthood; commentary; Adolescent; Adult; Child; Depressive Disorder; Female; Homosexuality; Humans; Life Style; Male; Mental Disorders; Models, Psychological; Research Design; Risk Factors; Sex Factors; Sexual Behavior; Suicide; Suicide, Attempted; Twins; At Risk Populations; Attempted Suicide; Homosexuality; Sexual Orientation; Suicidal Ideation; Bisexuality; Death Attitudes; Lesbianism; Male Homosexuality; Mental Disorders; Military Veterans; Psychosexual Behavior; Twins

Violence against women and suicide risk: The neglected impact of same-sex sexual behaviour - Lhomond, Brigitte; Saurel-Cubizolles, Marie-Josèphe (Social Science & Medicine, 2006)
We used data from the National Survey on Violence against Women in France carried out in 2000 on a representative sample of 6970 women to compare the social characteristics of women who had sex with women (WSW) and women who had sex only with men (WSM). The WSW were more likely to be of a high socio-economic level and living in large cities. They were more frequently unmarried, without children, and had a more diverse sexual life, generally beginning younger, with more partners, mainly men. They were also more likely to use tobacco, alcohol and drugs. WSW reported more physical violence in the recent past and more suicide attempts than WSM, despite a lack of difference in psychological distress and stress. These results, in a field little studied in France, are consistent with international findings attesting to the difficulties faced by women in situations involving autonomy and marginality. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: women; violence; suicide risk; same sex sexual behavior; France; socio-economic level; Adult; Battered Women; Data Collection; Female; France; Health Behavior; Heterosexuality; Homosexuality, Female; Humans; Interviews as Topic; Middle Aged; Suicide; Human Females; Psychosexual Behavior; Suicide; Violence; Sexual Partners; Socioeconomic Status

Differences Between Matched Heterosexual and Non-Heterosexual College Students on Defense Mechanisms and Psychopathological Symptoms - Biernbaum, Mark A.; Ruscio, Michele (Journal of Homosexuality, 2004)
Differences between heterosexual and non-heterosexual college students on measures of defense mechanisms and psychopathological symptoms were examined. Fifty-six (28 heterosexual, 28 non-heterosexual) subjects were drawn from a larger study of college student adjustment. Non-heterosexual subjects were matched to a heterosexual peer on several demographic variables as well as on attachment security/insecurity. Differences between the two groups on the Defense Mechanism Inventory and the Brief Symptom Inventory were tested. Contrary to traditional psychoanalytic conceptions of homosexuality, no differences were found between the two groups on any subscale of the Defense Mechanism Inventory, thereby repudiating one important aspect of traditional psychoanalytic theories on the development of homosexuality. Non-heterosexual students reported significantly higher levels of anxiety, depression, somaticization, paranoid ideation, general symptom severity, and suicidal ideation. These students appear to be at increased risk for psychopathology and suicidal ideation, despite similar defense profiles, when compared to matched heterosexual peers. Additional research is needed to determine the origins of this increased risk, and comprehensive and targeted prevention and intervention programs must be established to ameliorate such risks. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: heterosexuality; college students; defense mechanisms; psychopathological symptoms; homosexuality; Adolescent; Adult; Case-Control Studies; Defense Mechanisms; Female; Heterosexuality; Homosexuality; Humans; Male; Students; Defense Mechanisms; Heterosexuality; Homosexuality; Psychopathology; Symptoms; College Students

Correlates of resilience in homeless adolescents - Rew, Lynn; Taylor-Seehafer, Margaret; Thomas, Nancy Y.; Yockey, Ronald D. (Journal of Nursing Scholarship, 2001)
Described reasons adolescents give for their homelessness, explored relationships among resilience and selected risk and protective factors, identified differences in risk and protective factors by gender and sexual orientation, and determined best predictors of resilience. A descriptive and exploratory correlational design was used to analyze data from 59 homeless adolescents (aged 15–22 yrs) who sought health and social services from a community street-outreach project in central Texas. A paper and pencil survey consisting of valid measures (Resilience Scale, UCLA-Revised Loneliness Scale, Beck Hopelessness Scale, Social Connectedness Scale, and Death-Related Attitude Schedule) was administered. Nearly half the Ss (47%) reported a history of sexual abuse and 36% self-identified as gay, lesbian, or bisexual in orientation. Over half (51%) were thrown out of their homes by their parents, 37% left home because their parents disapproved of their alcohol or drug use, and nearly one-third left home because parents sexually abused them. Lack of resilience was significantly related to hopelessness, loneliness, life-threatening behaviors, and connectedness, but not to gender or sexual orientation. Hopelessness and connectedness explained 50% of the variance in resilience. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: sexual orientation & sexual abuse; resilience & loneliness & hopelessness & life-threatening behaviors & social connectedness; male vs female homeless 15–22 yr olds; Adaptation, Psychological; Adolescent; Adult; Female; Homeless Youth; Humans; Male; Regression Analysis; Risk Factors; Sex Factors; Sexual Behavior; Texas; Homeless; Human Sex Differences; Resilience (Psychological); Sexual Abuse; Sexual Orientation; Attempted Suicide; Hopelessness; Loneliness; Social Support

Suicide and sexual orientation: A critical summary of recent research and directions for future research - Muehrer, Peter (Suicide and Life-Threatening Behavior, 1995)
Summarizes findings of research in suicide and sexual orientation (SO). The methodological limitations of this research are identified as: (1) Lack of consensus on definitions of terms, such as 'suicide attempt' and 'sexual orientation', (2) uncertain reliability and validity of measures, (3) nonrepresentative samples, and (4) lack of appropriate control groups. These limitations prevent accurate conclusions regarding completed or attempted suicide rates between gay/lesbian youth in general and clinical populations, comparisons of completed and attempted suicide rates between gay/lesbian and nongay youth in general population, and the role that SO and related factors play in suicidal behavior, independent of well established risk factors such as mental and substance abuse disorders. Premature dissemination of school suicide-awareness programs is cautioned against due to ineffectiveness and even negative effects of such programs. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: suicide & sexual orientation; research review; Adolescent; Adult; Bias (Epidemiology); Female; Forecasting; Gender Identity; Homosexuality, Female; Homosexuality, Male; Humans; Male; Research; Risk Factors; Suicide; Suicide, Attempted; United States; Attempted Suicide; Homosexuality; Suicide

Risk for reassault in abusive female same-sex relationships - Glass, Nancy; Perrin, Nancy; Hanson, Ginger; Bloom, Tina; Gardner, Emily; Campbell, Jacquelyn C. (American Journal of Public Health, 2008)
Objectives: We revised the Danger Assessment to predict reassault in abusive female same-sex relationships. Methods: We used focus groups and interviews to evaluate the assessment tool and identify new risk factors and telephone interviews at baseline and at 1-month follow-up to evaluate the revised assessment. Results: The new assessment tool comprised 8 original and 10 new items. Predictors included increase in physical violence (relative risk ratio [RRR] = 1.95; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.84, 4.54), constant jealousy or possessiveness of abuser (RRR = 4.07; 95% CI = 0.61, 27.00), cohabitation (RRR = 1.96; 95% CI = 0.54, 7.12), threats or use of gun by abuser (RRR = 1.93; 95% CI = 0.79, 4.75), alcoholism or problem drinking of abuser (RRR = 1.47; 95% CI = 0.79, 2.71), illegal drug use or abuse of prescription medications by abuser (RRR = 1.33; 95% CI = 0.72, 2.46), stalking by abuser (RRR = 1.39; 95% CI = 0.70, 2.76), failure of individuals to take victim seriously when she sought help (RRR = 1.66; 95% CI = 0.90, 3.05), victim's fear of reinforcing negative stereotypes (RRR = 1.42; 95% CI = 0.73, 2.77), and secrecy of abuse (RRR = 1.72; 95% CI = 0.74, 3.99). Both unweighted (P < .005) and weighted (P < .004) versions of the revised assessment were significant predictors of reassault. Conclusions: The revised Danger Assessment accurately assesses risk of reassault in abusive female relationships. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: risk factors; re-assault; abusive relationships; females; same-sex relationships; lesbianism; Adult; Aggression; Battered Women; Female; Focus Groups; Homosexuality, Female; Humans; Interviews as Topic; Predictive Value of Tests; Risk; Intimate Partner Violence; Lesbianism; Risk Factors; Violence; Same Sex Intercourse; Sexual Abuse

Development and health care needs of lesbians - Lehmann, Joan B.; Lehmann, Christoph U.; Kelly, Patricia J. (Journal of Women's Health, 1998)
Attempted to identify psychosocial and health care needs of lesbians, to assess relationships with primary care providers and disclosure of sexual orientation, and to describe the chronologic features of a sexual identity and lifestyle. An anonymous, self-administered, written questionnaire was distributed through a campus lesbian organization. 53 women (mean age 23 yrs) completed the questionnaire. Whereas 60% had disclosed their sexual orientation to their parents, only 31% had 'come out' to their health care provider. Of Ss who had disclosed their sexual preference to a provider, 27% reported a negative effect on their health care, 57% of Ss who never had penile intercourse had annual Papanicolaou smears, and 16% felt pressured in the past to accept birth control from a physician. Lesbian sexuality was associated with several risk factors, such as childhood abuse (20%), alcohol or drug problems (39%), suicide attempts (27%), depression (49%), and physical or verbal abuse at school (34%). Average age of awareness of sexual orientation was 15 yrs, and average age of first homosexual activity was 17 yrs. Although most Ss would like to confide in their physician, few do because of fears of negative reactions. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: psychosocial problems & health care needs & disclosure of sexual orientation to health care provider; lesbian females; Health Care Utilization; Lesbianism; Needs Assessment; Psychosocial Factors; Self-Disclosure

Major depressive disorder, suicidal ideation, and suicide attempt in twins discordant for cannabis dependence and early-onset cannabis use - Lynskey, Michael T.; Glowinski, Anne L.; Todorov, Alexandre A.; Bucholz, Kathleen K.; Madden, Pamela A. F.; Nelson, Elliot C.; Statham, Dixie J.; Martin, Nicholas G.; Heath, Andrew C. (Archives of General Psychiatry, 2004)
Background: Previous research has reported both a moderate degree of comorbidity between cannabis dependence and major depressive disorder (MDD) and that early-onset cannabis use is associated with increased risks for MDD. Objective: To examine whether associations between both lifetime cannabis dependence and early cannabis use and measures of MDD, suicidal ideation, and suicide attempt persist after controlling for genetic and/or shared environmental influences. Design: Cross-sectional survey of twin pairs discordant for lifetime cannabis dependence and those discordant for early cannabis use. Setting: General population sample of twins (median age, 30 years). Participants: Two hundred seventy-seven same-sex twin pairs discordant for cannabis dependence and 311 pairs discordant for early-onset cannabis use (before age 17 years). Main Outcome Measures: Self-report measures of DSM-IV-defined lifetime MDD, suicidal ideation, and suicide attempt. Results: Individuals who were cannabis dependent had odds of suicidal ideation and suicide attempt that were 2.5 to 2.9 times higher than those of their non-cannabis-dependent co-twin. Additionally, cannabis dependence was associated with elevated risks of MDD in dizygotic but not in monozygotic twins. Those who initiated cannabis use before age 17 years had elevated rates of subsequent suicide attempt (odds ratio, 3.5 [95% confidence interval, 1.4-8.6]) but not of MDD or suicidal ideation. Early MDD and suicidal ideation were significantly associated with subsequent risks of cannabis dependence in discordant dizygotic pairs but not in discordant monozygotic pairs. Conclusions: Comorbidity between cannabis dependence and MDD likely arises through shared genetic and environmental vulnerabilities predisposing to both outcomes. In contrast, associations between cannabis dependence and suicidal behaviors cannot be entirely explained by common predisposing genetic and/or shared environmental predispositions. Previously reported associations between early-onset cannabis use and subsequent MDD likely reflect shared genetic and environmental vulnerabilities, although it remains possible that early-onset cannabis use may predispose to suicide attempt. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: major depression; suicidal ideation; suicide attempt; cannabis dependence; comorbidity; twins; Adult; Australia; Comorbidity; Cross-Sectional Studies; Depressive Disorder; Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders; Diseases in Twins; Female; Genetic Predisposition to Disease; Humans; Male; Marijuana Abuse; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales; Risk Factors; Social Environment; Suicide; Suicide, Attempted; Twins, Dizygotic; Twins, Monozygotic; Attempted Suicide; Cannabis; Drug Dependency; Major Depression; Suicidal Ideation; Comorbidity; Twins

Social work with gay and lesbian adolescents - Morrow, Deana F. (Social Work, 1993)
Issues pertinent to social work with lesbian and gay adolescents are examined in the context of 3 main social institutions: the family, the social culture, and the educational setting. Social workers' roles in providing families with information and support and evaluating suicide risk are discussed. Suggestions are made for improving intervention with this population, including increasing personal awareness of one's own homophobia; educating oneself and client groups about homosexuality; establishing positive social support programs to serve lesbian and gay adolescents; advocating for sanctions to end gay and lesbian harassment in the educational system; supporting the hiring of openly gay and lesbian teachers; and advocating for the inclusion of sexual orientation information in school sex education curricula. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2018 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: social work issues; gay & lesbian adolescents; Adolescent; Family; Female; Gender Identity; Homosexuality; Humans; Male; Psychology, Adolescent; Schools; Social Support; Social Work; Suicide; Violence; Lesbianism; Male Homosexuality; Social Casework

Sexual orientation in adolescents who commit suicide - Shaffer, David; Fisher, Prudence; Parides, Michael; Gould, Madelyn (Suicide and Life-Threatening Behavior, 1995)
Examined the relationship between suicidal behavior and homosexuality in adolescence in a psychological autopsy study of 120 of 170 consecutive suicides under age 20 (unselected sample), and 147 matched controls. The criteria for homosexuality was defined as having had homosexual experiences or having declared a homosexual orientation. Three teenagers and none of the controls met this criteria. The circumstances of the death of the case, along with their history, indicate a slightly, but not significantly high rate of homosexual experience among teen suicides, than among controls. The rates of homosexuality appeared similar to those reported in general population. In none of the 3 cases did suicide directly follow an episode of stigmatization. Rather, all cases had evidence of significant psychiatric disorders before death. It was concluded that there was no evidence to indicate that suicide is a common characteristic of gay youth. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: homosexuality & stigmatization; 17–20 yr old suicide victims; Adolescent; Adult; Female; Gender Identity; Homosexuality, Female; Homosexuality, Male; Humans; Male; New York City; Personality Assessment; Prejudice; Sexual Behavior; Social Support; Suicide; Urban Population; Homosexuality; Stigma; Suicide

Issues relating to the treatment of adolescent lesbians and homosexuals - Teague, James B. (Journal of Mental Health Counseling, 1992)
Summarizes the current theoretical literature regarding issues that can help mental health counselors be more aware and more effective in their delivery of services to gay and lesbian adolescents. These adolescents often suffer from confusion, isolation, and other serious problems such as attempted suicide. Etiological, developmental, treatment, and resource issues are highlighted. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2017 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: developmental issues & delivery of mental health counseling; lesbian & homosexual adolescents; Counseling; Lesbianism; Male Homosexuality; Mental Health Services; Psychosexual Development; Health Care Delivery

Transgender Health: Findings from Two Needs Assessment Studies in Philadelphia - Kenagy, Gretchen P. (Health & Social Work, 2005)
HIV/AIDS, suicide, violence, and barriers to health care access among transgender people were explored using two needs assessment surveys conducted in Philadelphia in 1997. A total of 182 people responded to a face-to-face interview or self-administered mail survey: 113 male-to-female individuals and 69 female-to-male individuals. About three-fifths of respondents had engaged in unprotected sexual activity during the past 12 months. The risk for HIV infection from unprotected sex was significantly higher among respondents of color than among white respondents. About one-third (30.1 percent) of respondents had attempted suicide. More than half of respondents had been forced to have sex, 56.3 percent had experienced violence in their homes, and 51.3 percent had been physically abused. Twenty-six percent of respondents had been denied medical care because they were transgender. These findings suggest that prevention services that specifically address HIV/AIDS, suicide, and violence among transgender people are urgently needed. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: HIV/AIDS; suicide; violence; barriers to health care access; needs assessment; transgender people; Adult; Female; Gender Identity; HIV Infections; Health Services Needs and Demand; Humans; Male; Philadelphia; Refusal to Treat; Risk Factors; Sexual Behavior; Suicide, Attempted; Transsexualism; Violence; Health Care Utilization; Sexual Risk Taking; Suicide; Transsexualism; Violence; AIDS; At Risk Populations; Health; HIV; Needs Assessment; Health Care Access

HIV prevalence and risk behaviour among men who have sex with men in Vientiane Capital, Lao People’s Democratic Republic, 2007 - Sheridan, Sarah; Phimphachanh, Chansy; Chanlivong, Niramonh; Manivong, Sisavath; Khamsyvolsvong, Sod; Lattanavong, Phonesay; Sisouk, Thongchanh; Toledo, Carlos; Scherzer, Martha; Toole, Mike; van Griensven, Frits (AIDS, 2009)
Background: Men who have sex with men are at high risk for HIV infection. Here we report the results of the first assessment of HIV prevalence and risk behavior in this group in Vientiane, Lao People's Democratic Republic. Methods: Between August and September 2007, 540 men were enrolled from venues around Vientiane, using venue-day-time sampling. Men of Lao nationality, 15 years and over, reporting oral or anal sex with a man in the previous 6 months were eligible for participation. Demographic and socio-behavioral information was self-collected using hand-held computers. Oral fluid was tested for HIV infection. Logistic regression was used to evaluate risk factors for prevalent HIV infection. Results: The median age of participants was 21 years; the HIV prevalence was 5.6%. Of participants, 39.6% reported exclusive attraction to men and 57.6% reported sex with women. Of those who reported having regular and nonregular sexual partner(s) in the past 3 months, consistent condom use with these partners was 14.4 and 24.2%, respectively. A total of 42.2% self-reported any sexually transmitted infection symptoms and 6.3% had previously been tested for HIV. Suicidal ideation was reported by 17.0%, which was the only variable significantly and independently associated with HIV infection in multivariate analysis. Conclusion: Although the HIV prevalence is low compared with neighboring countries in the region, men who have sex with men in Lao People's Democratic Republic are at high behavioral risk for HIV infection. To prevent a larger HIV epidemic occurrence and transmission into the broader community, higher coverage of HIV prevention interventions is required. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: HIV; prevalence; risk behavior; men who have sex with men; Adolescent; Adult; Condoms; Epidemiologic Methods; HIV Infections; Homosexuality, Male; Humans; Laos; Male; Middle Aged; Prostitution; Risk-Taking; Sexual Behavior; Unsafe Sex; Young Adult; Epidemiology; HIV; Human Males; Sexual Risk Taking; Same Sex Intercourse; Southeast Asian Cultural Groups

Sexual orientation and development challenges experienced by gay and lesbian youths - Rotheram-Borus, Mary Jane; Fernandez, Isabel (Suicide and Life-Threatening Behavior, 1995)
Discusses developmental challenges faced during 'coming out' [defining own sexual orientation (SO)], in homosexual, as compared to heterosexual youths, or those who recognize their homosexual orientation later in life. The process of coming out, becomes a central developmental task, and a challenge in the search for personal identity. A developmental model of coming out, which has 4 dimensions, is presented: Recognizing oneself as lesbian or gay; exploring SO by gaining information on it, and on the gay and lesbian communities; disclosing one's SO to others; and becoming more comfortable with, and accepting SO. Some of the major challenges faced by homosexual youths include (1) development of appropriate strategies to cope with internal and external stressors related to coming out; (2) lack of social support and positive role models, and (3) risk of AIDS. Suggestions for future research are also presented. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: developmental challenges in defining sexual orientation; homosexual adolescents; Adolescent; Adult; Female; Gender Identity; Homosexuality, Female; Homosexuality, Male; Humans; Male; Personality Development; Psychosexual Development; Self Concept; Self Disclosure; Social Conformity; Social Identification; Homosexuality; Psychosexual Development

Things that could make a difference: Integrating lesbian and gay issues in secondary schools - Burton, Ann M. (Health Education, 1995)
Considers the need for and importance of integrating lesbian and gay issues in secondary schools. The incidence of homosexuality in society is considered, along with the social and human cost of discrimination—including a high rate of attempted suicide among young lesbians and gay men. Emphasizes that schools which fail to tackle this issue are effectively neglecting their pastoral duties which require them to address the needs of all pupils. Clarifies the current legal situation for schools, emphasizing that there is no legal bar preventing teachers discussing lesbian and gay issues in schools. Suggests that to integrate these issues properly, schools need to consider and examine their policies, their curriculum and the hidden curriculum. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2017 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: lesbian issues; gay issues; secondary schools; homosexuality; curriculum; Curriculum; Homosexuality; Secondary Education; Lesbianism; Male Homosexuality

Emotional, behavioral, and HIV risks associated with sexual abuse among adult homosexual and bisexual men - Bartholow, Bradford N.; Doll, Lynda S.; Joy, Dan; Douglas, John M.; Bolan, Gail; Harrison, Janet S.; Moss, Patricia M.; McKirnan, David (Child Abuse & Neglect, 1994)
From May 1989 through April 1990, 1,001 adult homosexual and bisexual men (mean age 32.5 yrs) attending urban STD clinics were interviewed regarding abusive sexual contacts during childhood and adolescence. Child or adolescent sexual abuse (CASA) was significantly associated with mental health counseling and hospitalization, psychoactive substance use, depression, suicidal thoughts or actions, social support, sexual identity development, HIV risk behavior, and risk of STDs including HIV infection. Thus, CASA may have a wide-ranging influence on the quality of life and the health risk behavior of homosexual men. Increased awareness to the potential outcomes of male CASA is important to the design and implementation of medical and psychological services for sexually abused men. (Spanish abstract) (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2020 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: child or adolescent sexual abuse; emotional reactions & psychoactive drug use & sexual identity development & HIV risk behavior; male homosexual or bisexual adults; Adolescent; Adult; Bisexuality; Child Abuse, Sexual; Emotions; HIV Infections; Health Behavior; Homosexuality, Male; Humans; Male; Mental Health; Prevalence; Quality of Life; Risk Factors; Risk-Taking; Surveys and Questionnaires; Bisexuality; Child Abuse; Male Homosexuality; Sexual Abuse; Drug Usage; Emotional Adjustment; HIV; Human Males; Psychosexual Development; Risk Taking

A general review of recent reports on homosexuality and lesbianism - Hughes, John R. (Sexuality and Disability, 2006)
This review deals with the most recent reports on male homosexuality (H) and lesbianism (L). The reviewer checked the most recent 1000 articles in the Internet's Medline to report the major new findings in H and L. First discussed is the presumed etiology or cause, including the 'maternal immunization hypothesis' and the evidence for both genetic and environmental factors. Next the prevalence in various countries is reported. The related diseases include HIV+, syphilis and other venereal diseases. Factors like drug involvement, unprotected anal sex, casual partners are included, as is suicidal ideation, violence, child molestation and changes in sexual orientation over time. The goal of this review is to make available to all readers the most recent reports on H and L so that pre-existing problems and any new disorders that have arisen can be better understood and that attempts at their solution can be pursued. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: male homosexuality; lesbianism; etiology; genetic factors; environmental factors; Lesbianism; Male Homosexuality; Environmental Effects; Genetics

Clinical characteristics, psychiatric comorbidities and sociodemographic profile of transsexual patients from an outpatient clinic in Brazil - Lobato, Maria Inês; Koff, Walter José; Schestatsky, Sidnei Samuel; Chaves, Camila Pedrollo de Vasconcellos; Petry, Analídia; Crestana, Tiago; Amaral, Juliana Trindade; Onófrio, Fernanda de Quadros; Salvador, Jaqueline; Silveira, Esalba; Henriques, Alexandre Annes (International Journal of Transgenderism, 2008)
Objective: To provide a description of our transsexual population. Method: This descriptive observational study included 138 patients with a diagnosis of Transsexualism in Brazil, between March 1998 and September 2005. Demographic, clinical and psychiatry data were collected. Results: Age ranged from 16 to 54 years; 88.4% were male. The prevalence of sexually transmitted diseases was 19.5%, and 17.6% were HIV-positive. Hormone therapy was reported by 91.2%, and 47.4% referred drug and alcohol use; 14.2%, attempted suicide; and 12.5%, history of sexual abuse. Self-mutilation was reported by 5.2%. Fifty-nine patients (42.7%) had at least one currently psychiatric comorbidity (axis I or II). Conclusions: Mental health professionals have a central role in coordinating the multidisciplinary care of transsexuals. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: clinical characteristics; psychiatric comorbidities; sociodemographic profile; transsexual patients; Brazil; Client Characteristics; Comorbidity; Mental Disorders; Transsexualism

Suicide among Asian Americans: What do we know? What do we need to know? - Leong, Frederick T. L.; Leach, Mark M.; Yeh, Christine; Chou, Elayne (Death Studies, 2007)
The current review begins with an acknowledgment of the diversity within the Asian American population as well as the scarcity of information on suicide among this particular racial/ethnic minority group. In analyzing what is known and what still needs to be learned about suicide among Asian Americans, the current article provides a critical review of significant factors such as age, gender, religious and spirituality issues, acculturation, social support, familial dynamics, social integration as well as gay/lesbian/bisexual orientations. In examining these factors, recommendations related to interventions and the existing research gaps are also discussed. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: suicide; Asian Americans; minority groups; racial and ethnic groups; Acculturation; Asian Americans; Bisexuality; Female; Homosexuality; Humans; Male; Religion; Social Support; Spirituality; Suicide; United States; Asians; Minority Groups; Suicide

Adjustment among mothers reporting same-gender sexual partners: A study of a representative population sample from Quebec province (Canada) - Julien, Danielle; Jouvin, Emilie; Jodoin, Emilie; l'Archevêque, Alexandre; Chartrand, Elise (Archives of Sexual Behavior, 2008)
We examined the well-being of mothers and non-mothers reporting exclusive opposite-gender sexual partners (OG), same-gender sexual partners (SG), or both (BI) in a representative sample of 20,773 participants (11,034 women) 15-years-old or older from the population of Quebec province in Canada. Participants completed a self-administered questionnaire and SG and BI women (n = 179) were matched to a sample of OG women (n = 179) based on age, income, geographical area, and children (having at least one 18-year-old or younger biological or adopted child at home). We assessed social milieu variables, risk factors for health disorders, mental health, and quality of mothers' relationship with children. The findings indicated a sexual orientation main effect: Mothers and non-mothers in the SG and BI group, as compared to their OG controls, were significantly less likely to live in a couple relationship, had significantly lower levels of social support, higher prevalence of early negative life events, substance abuse, suicide ideation, and higher levels of psychological distress. There were no Sexual Orientation X Parenthood status effects. The results further indicated that sexual orientation did not account for unique variance in women's psychological distress beyond that afforded by their social milieu, health risk factors, and parenthood status. No significant differences were found for the quality of mothers' relationship with children. SG-BI and OG mothers with low levels of social integration were significantly more likely to report problems with children than parents with high levels of social integration. We need to understand how marginal sexualities and their associated social stigma, as risk indicators for mothers, interact with other factors to impact family life, parenting skills, and children's adjustment. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: adjustment; mothers; same gender sexual partners; Quebec province; well being; opposite gender sexual partners; couple relationship; quality of relationship; Adolescent; Adult; Aged; Bisexuality; Child; Female; Heterosexuality; Homosexuality; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Mother-Child Relations; Mothers; Parenting; Quebec; Sexual Partners; Sexuality; Socialization; Socioeconomic Factors; Emotional Adjustment; Relationship Quality; Sexual Orientation; Well Being; Sexual Partners; Couples; Mothers; Sexuality

Suicide attempts among people living with HIV in France - Préau, M.; Bouhnik, A.-D.; Peretti-Watel, P.; Obadia, Y.; Spire, B. (AIDS Care, 2008)
This study examined the prevalence and characteristics of attempted suicide among a representative sample of French Human Immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infected individuals. In 2003, a face-to-face survey was conducted among people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) selected in a random, stratified sample of French hospital departments. Among solicited individuals, 2,932 agreed to participate and were asked if they had ever AS. Among the respondents, 23% had AS. Female gender, younger age, native French citizenship, reporting household financial difficulties, having been HIV-contaminated through homosexual contact or through injection drug use and suffering from lipodystrophy-related symptoms were all independently associated with AS. HIV-discrimination and the lack of social support from family remained independently associated with AS. Our findings indicate a high level of AS among PLWHA and emphasize the multiple roles of factors associated with living with HIV, together with sociodemographic factors. The results enable the possibility for vulnerable groups to be targeted for specific future interventions in order to prevent attempted suicide. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: attempted suicide; HIV infected people; AIDS prevalence; France; Adolescent; Adult; Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Anti-HIV Agents; Female; France; HIV Infections; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Prejudice; Quality of Life; Regression Analysis; Socioeconomic Factors; Suicide, Attempted; Surveys and Questionnaires; AIDS; Attempted Suicide; Epidemiology; HIV

Attitudes toward suicide in patients with HIV/AIDS - Domino, George; Shen, Di (Omega: Journal of Death and Dying, 1997)
Administered the Suicide Opinion Questionnaire (SOQ), the Beck Depression Inventory, the Hopelessness Scale, and a demographic questionnaire to (1) 36 HIV-positive gay or bisexual men with a diagnosis of AIDS or AIDS related complex (ARC), (2) 36 HIV-negative gay of bisexual men, and (3) 36 heterosexual males in good physical health with no evidence of AIDS, ARC, or other major medical conditions. The groups differed significantly on depression and hopelessness, with HIV-positive Ss scoring highest and heterosexual Ss scoring lowest. Depression correlated significantly with scores on the SOQ mental illness and cry for help scales for both gay groups, and hopelessness scores correlated significantly with the SOQ mental illness scale for the HIV-negative gay and heterosexual groups. Significant differences in attitude toward suicide between HIV positive and the other groups were obtained on 4 SOQ scales. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: hopelessness & depression & attitudes toward suicide; 24–42 yr old HIV/AIDS negative vs positive gay or bisexual vs healthy heterosexual males; Death Attitudes; Emotional States; HIV; Sexual Orientation; Suicide; AIDS; Depression (Emotion); Heterosexuality; Homosexuality; Hopelessness; Human Males

Correlates of same-sex sexual behavior in a random sample of Massachusetts high school students - Faulkner, Anne H.; Cranston, Kevin (American Journal of Public Health, 1998)
Examined selected risk behaviors of homosexually and bisexually experienced adolescents drawn from data of the 1993 Massachusetts Youth Risk Behavior Survey. Data were obtained from a sample of 3,054 students in grades 9 through 12 in 45 Massachusetts high schools. Of the students, 6.4% reported same-sex contact. Violence, substance use and suicide behaviors were compared between students with same-sex experience and those reporting only heterosexual contact. Differences in prevalence and standard errors of the differences were calculated. Students reporting same-sex contact were more likely to report fighting and victimization, frequent use of alcohol, other drug use and recent suicidal behaviors. Students with same-sex experience may be at elevated risk of injury, disease and death resulting from violence, substance abuse and suicidal behaviors. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: risk of violence & substance use & suicide behaviors; homosexually or bisexually vs heterosexually experienced 9th–12th graders; Adolescent; Adolescent Behavior; Bisexuality; Female; Homosexuality; Humans; Male; Massachusetts; Risk-Taking; Students; Substance-Related Disorders; Suicide, Attempted; Violence; Bisexuality; Drug Abuse; Homosexuality; Suicidal Ideation; Violence; At Risk Populations; Psychosexual Behavior

Young People, Gender and Suicide: A Review of Research on the Social Context - Smalley, Nina; Scourfield, Jonathan; Greenland, Katy (Journal of Social Work, 2005)
Summary: The paper reviews some recent research on the social context of suicide in young people, with particular reference to evidence about the gendered character of suicidal behaviour. Some implications for social work and social policy are discussed. Findings: Key messages from the research reviewed are presented in relation to some specific social domains. These are employment, social cohesion and social comparison, mental illness, family and relationships, sexual orientation and help-seeking. Applications: This review is especially of use to those in the social work field who are not familiar with the large body of research on the social context of youth suicide in the medical and psychological literature. There is some discussion in the article of the implications of this research for suicide prevention, both in terms of policy and in terms of the practices of individual social workers. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: young people; gender differences; suicidal behavior; social context; help seeking; social cohesion; social comparison; mental illness; family; sexual orientation; Adolescent Psychiatry; Human Sex Differences; Social Influences; Sociocultural Factors; Suicide; Employment Status; Family; Help Seeking Behavior; Mental Disorders; Sexual Orientation; Social Comparison; Social Workers

Sexual orientation and mental health in a birth cohort of young adults - Fergusson, David M.; Horwood, L. John; Ridder, Elizabeth M.; Beautrais, Annette L. (Psychological Medicine, 2005)
Background: This paper sought to examine the relationship between sexual orientation and mental health in a New Zealand birth cohort studied to age 25 years. Method: The analysis is based on a sample of 967 participants (469 males; 498 females) in the Christchurch Health and Development Study. As part of this study information was gathered on: (a) measures of sexual orientation, same-sex behaviour and sexual attraction obtained at ages 21 and 25 years; (b) measures of mental disorders and suicidal behaviours over the interval 21-25 years; (c) measures of childhood and family background. Results: Latent class analysis was used to combine indicators of sexual orientation, same sex behaviour and attraction to form an empirically based classification of sexual orientation. The best-fitting model classified the sample into three groups: exclusively heterosexual orientation (87.6%); predominantly heterosexual but with same-sex inclinations or experience (9.6%); predominantly homosexual (2.8%). Proportionately more women than men were classified as predominantly heterosexual (14.2% v. 4.8% respectively) or predominantly homosexual (3.9% v. 1.5% respectively). Cohort members with a predominantly homosexual orientation had rates of mental disorder and suicidal behaviours that were between 1.5 and 12 times higher than for those with an exclusively heterosexual orientation. These associations persisted after adjustment for confounding. The associations between sexual orientation and mental health were more marked for males than females. Conclusions: The findings suggest a continuum of sexual preferences amongst young adults. Variations in sexual orientation were clearly associated with mental health. These associations tended to be stronger for males. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: sexual orientation; mental health; birth cohort; young adults; human sex differences; Adult; Cohort Studies; Female; Humans; Male; Mental Health; New Zealand; Sex Factors; Sexual Behavior; Cohort Analysis; Human Sex Differences; Mental Health; Sexual Orientation

Acting (to) Out: Approaching Homosexuality in a 15-Year-Old Boy with Anxiety and Depression - Jackson, Joseph A.; Telingator, Cynthia J.; Pleak, Richard R.; Pollack, William S. (Harvard Review of Psychiatry, 2005)
Presents a clinical case report of approaching homosexuality in a 15-year-old mixed-race boy ('JM') with anxiety and depression. He reported that his anxiety had been growing progressively worse since enrolling in a nearby vocational high school. He endorsed multiple depressive symptoms, including sadness and hopelessness, loss of interest, poor concentration, decreased energy, and increased sleep and appetite, with a 30-pound weight gain over several months. He had experienced occasional passive suicidal ideation, however, he denied any history of self-injurious behavior. The clinicians discuss the complications that may arise in an initial encounter with an adolescent dealing with issues of sexual identity with the reference of JM's case. The exploration of adolescents' sexuality and of positive and negative feelings about their sexual orientation should take place in a therapeutic relationship in which the therapist can remain neutral. Premature closure of the therapist's thinking about an adolescent's sexual orientation may be harmful. It should also be noted how important it is for the therapist to help the gay adolescent find positive role models. While gender identity and sexual orientation are sensitive issues, especially for an adolescent, clinicians must inquire about them in the same caring, nonjudgmental manner as any other aspect of the patient's life. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: homosexuality; anxiety; depression; gender identity; sexual orientation; adolescent development; Anxiety; Attitude; Depression; Homosexuality, Male; Humans; Male; Marijuana Abuse; Psychotherapy; Anxiety; Gender Identity; Major Depression; Male Homosexuality; Psychotherapy; Adolescent Development

Club Drug Use Among Young Men Who Have Sex with Men in NYC: A Preliminary Epidemiological Profile - Clatts, Michael C.; Goldsamt, Lloyd A.; Yi, Huso (Substance Use & Misuse, 2005)
This paper describes findings from a study of young men who have sex with men (YMSM) in New York City. Using a cross-sectional design and a community-based targeted sampling approach, a total of 569 YMSM were recruited during 2000 and 2001 for a structured survey interview. High rates of lifetime exposure to a variety of club drugs (including methamphetamine, ketamine, and MDMA) are observed in the overall sample. Among those who use club drugs on a chronic basis (N = 145), we found high rates of a prior suicide attempt (including high rates of multiple suicide attempts), high rates of lifetime exposure to multiple types of drugs, high rates of current poly drug use (including multiple types of club drugs), and high rates of current depressive symptoms. Chronic club drug users had a mean CES-D score of 8.5 and nearly two-thirds had a score of 7 or more. Although high rates of condom use are reported in some types of sexual exchanges, data show multiple types of sexual risk among chronic club drug users, including high rates of unprotected anal intercourse (UAI) with most frequent partners and comorbid drug use among both YMSM and their sexual partners. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: club drug use; homosexuality; depressive symptoms; epidemiology; poly drug use; suicide attempt; drug exposure; human males; Adolescent; Adult; Anesthetics, Dissociative; Central Nervous System Stimulants; Chronic Disease; Cross-Sectional Studies; Hallucinogens; Health Surveys; Homosexuality; Humans; Ketamine; Male; Methamphetamine; N-Methyl-3,4-methylenedioxyamphetamine; New York City; Recreation; Risk-Taking; Sexually Transmitted Diseases; Substance-Related Disorders; Suicide, Attempted; Urban Population; Attempted Suicide; Drug Abuse; Epidemiology; Human Males; Male Homosexuality; Depression (Emotion)

Mental Health Problems and Use of Services of Lesbians: Results of the Boston Lesbian Health Project II - Roberts, Susan Jo; Grindel, Cecelia Gatson; Patsdaughter, Carol A.; Reardon, Kathleen; Tarmina, M. Suzanne (Journal of Gay & Lesbian Social Services: Issues in Practice, Policy & Research, 2004)
The Boston Health Project II, replicating a national survey of lesbians completed in 1987, found few differences from previous data regarding mental health problems and service use among lesbians. Respondents expressed positive feelings about being lesbian but reported money and work to be major problems. Surveyed lesbians used therapy at high rates, with depression and relationship problems being common reasons for seeking care. Most respondents were satisfied with their therapy experiences; female and lesbian therapists received the highest ratings. Depression, anxiety/panic disorders, and alcohol use continued to be concerns, along with suicide attempts and eating disorders among adolescents. Findings confirm that mental health needs exist for lesbians and challenge social service workers to make these services available. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: mental health problems; health care service utilization; lesbians; client attitudes; Client Attitudes; Health Care Services; Health Care Utilization; Lesbianism; Mental Disorders; Mental Health

Project 10: A school-based outreach to gay and lesbian youth - Uribe, Virginia (The High School Journal, 1993)
Describes Project 10, a model school program that addresses the underserved needs of gay and lesbian students. The focus of the model is education, reduction of verbal and physical abuse, suicide prevention, and dissemination of accurate AIDS information. These goals are carried out through workshops for teachers, counselors, and other support personnel, and through support groups set up on each senior high school campus for students dealing with sexual orientation issues. The goal of the support group is to improve self-esteem and provide affirmation for students suffering the effects of stigmatization and discrimination based on sexual orientation. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: model school outreach education & support group program; gay & lesbian high school students; Educational Programs; Lesbianism; Male Homosexuality; Support Groups; High School Students

The health and social service needs of transgender people in Philadelphia - Kenagy, Gretchen P. (International Journal of Transgenderism, 2005)
Two Philadelphia-based HIV service organizations and a local university collaborated on a study of health and social service needs of transgender people. Transgender people were the primary resource for the development of the needs assessment survey. In this article, the survey development process, including two discussion groups and two focus groups, are described. Findings on barriers to care, violence, perception of public safety and comfort, suicide and health and social service needs are presented. Total sample size was 81, with 49 male-to-female and 32 female-to-male transgender individuals. Most (68%) were African American. About half of the respondents had thought about attempting suicide. High levels of violence were reported, especially among male-to-females. Health and social service needs included job training/work, dental care, health care, legal services, transportation, education and housing. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: health service needs; social service needs; transgender people; Philadelphia; violence; public safety; suicide; health; service barriers; Health Care Services; Needs; Social Services; Transsexualism; Treatment Barriers; Health; Safety; Suicide; Violence

Homosexuality, psychopathology, and suicidality - Friedman, Richard C. (Archives of General Psychiatry, 1999)
Comments on the articles by R. Herrell et al (see record [rid]1999-01131-001[/rid]) and D. M. Fergusson et al (see record [rid]1999-01131-002[/rid]) regarding the relation between sexual orientation and suicidal behavior. It is noted that the major findings reported in these 2 studies are compatible with other recently reported data (T. G. Sandfort et al, 1999). It is further contended that these 2 studies point to a need for research in a number of areas. Collaborative research between developmentally oriented clinicians, descriptive psychiatrists, and epidemiologists might help distinguish between causes and consequences of these associations. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: sexual orientation; suicidal ideation & attempts; 21 yr old gays & lesbians & bisexuals & middle aged veteran male twins in which 1 member reported having male sex partners in adulthood; commentary; Adolescent; Adult; Depressive Disorder; Female; Homosexuality; Humans; Male; Mental Disorders; New Zealand; Prevalence; Research Design; Risk Factors; Sexual Behavior; Suicide; United States; At Risk Populations; Attempted Suicide; Homosexuality; Sexual Orientation; Suicidal Ideation; Bisexuality; Death Attitudes; Lesbianism; Male Homosexuality; Mental Disorders; Military Veterans; Psychosexual Behavior; Twins

The epidemiology of suicide and attempted suicide among young Australians - Cantor, Chris; Neulinger, Kerryn (Australian and New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry, 2000)
Summarizes a report to the Australian National Health and Medical Research Council, the objectives of which were to review research into the epidemiology of youth suicide in Australia and identify gaps in research. Literature searches were conducted. A limited amount of new data analysis was included to shed light on reliability issues of official Australian suicide data. The review examined suicide data systems, including issues to do with coroners, the Australian Bureau of Statistics and alternative systems. The epidemiological areas reviewed included all ages as well as younger age groups, gender, geographical, socioeconomic, marital, indigenous, migrants, suicides in custody, and gay and lesbian suicides. While much is known about the epidemiology of youth suicide, much remains to be clarified. Study of indigenous issues is perhaps the most neglected area; study of family issues may potentially be the most productive. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: gender & geography & socioeconomics & marriage & migration & indigenousness & homosexuality & other epidemiologic issues in suicide; youth; Australia; Adolescent; Adult; Asia; Australia; Demography; Europe; Female; Humans; Incidence; Male; Mexico; Middle Aged; Risk Factors; Sex Distribution; Suicide; Suicide, Attempted; United States; Epidemiology; Suicide; Geography; Homosexuality; Human Migration; Human Sex Differences; Marriage; Sociocultural Factors; Socioeconomic Status

Review of The bi-sexuality of Daniel Defoe: A psychoanalytic survey of the man and his works - Pines, Malcolm (Psychoanalysis and History, 2007)
Reviews the book, The Bi-Sexuality of Daniel Defoe: A Psychoanalytic Survey of the Man and His Works by Leo Abse (2007). This well-written and exceptionally interesting book is in effect three books in one: firstly, a detailed account of the life of Daniel Defoe; secondly, a psychoanalytic profile of Defoe; thirdly, episodes from Leo Abse's long distinguished career as a lawyer, as a politician. In his political life as a Member of Parliament, Abse was responsible for introducing significant reforms: ending the criminality of private homosexual conduct between consenting adults and decriminalizing suicide, finally ending capital punishment. Readers are offered psychodynamic profiles of his fellow Members of the Commons. Abse's book is written in his ninth decade and into it he pours the vigour that has characterized the many decades of his life as a lawyer, a politician and reformer, as a staunch supporter of psychoanalysis who never deviates from Freud's discovery of the polymorphous perversity of the infant and of the positive and negative Oedipus complex. It is a fascinating essay in psycho-biography in which he brings to life the extraordinary character of Daniel Defoe in the time when the struggle between Catholicism and Protestantism was being fought out, as later were the conflicts between the Freudians and the Kleinians in own lifetimes. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: bisexuality; Daniel Defoe; psychoanalytic theory; psychoanalysis; Oedipus complex; Bisexuality; Psychoanalysis; Psychoanalytic Theory; Writers; Oedipal Complex; Psychoanalytic Interpretation

Lesbians in New Zealand: Their mental health and satisfaction with mental health services - Welch, Sarah; Collings, Sunny C. D.; Howden-Chapman, Phillippa (Australian and New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry, 2000)
Describes the mental health of lesbians in New Zealand, and documents their accounts of their experience of mental health services. This is a descriptive cross-sectional study. A postal questionnaire, the Lesbian Mental Health Survey, was distributed via lesbian newsletters and completed by 561 19–66 yr old women throughout New Zealand. Mental health measures included the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28), Interview Schedule for Social Interaction (ISSI), and respondents' histories of sexual abuse and psychiatric histories. Experiences of mental health services were sought. Results show that the respondent group were predominantly New Zealand European, highly educated, urban women between 25 and 50 yrs of age. Three-quarters had identified as lesbian for more than 5 yrs. Recent self-identification as lesbian was associated with higher GHQ score, as was being younger than 35, having a history of sexual abuse, and not living with a partner. Eighty percent of respondents had used mental health services sometime in their lives and nearly 30% of users had received 'lesbian-unfriendly' treatment at some point. One-sixth of respondents had experienced discrimination from service providers in the previous 5 yrs. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: mental health & accounts of experiences with mental health services; 19–66 yr old lesbians; New Zealand; Adult; Child; Child Abuse, Sexual; Child, Preschool; Female; Health Status; Homosexuality, Female; Humans; Mental Disorders; Mental Health Services; Middle Aged; New Zealand; Personal Satisfaction; Prejudice; Suicide, Attempted; Surveys and Questionnaires; Client Satisfaction; Lesbianism; Mental Health; Mental Health Services

Gay youth: More visible but fewer problems? - Alexander, Christopher J. (Journal of Gay & Lesbian Social Services: Issues in Practice, Policy & Research, 2000)
In recent years there has been a growing awareness among parents and social service professionals of the complex sexual identity development of adolescents. Despite this, adolescents continue to struggle to define their sexual identity. Gay and lesbian adolescents in particular are at risk for a host of problems, including substance abuse and suicide. In this context it is important for social service researchers to study adolescent sexual identity and to report their findings in such a way as to be accessible to professionals and to the public. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: gay youth; adolescent sexuality; sexual identity development; Adolescent Development; Homosexuality; Sexual Development

Sexual risk behavior and substance use among a sample of Asian Pacific Islander transgendered women - Operario, Don; Nemoto, Tooru (AIDS Education and Prevention, 2005)
We examined the prevalence and correlates of HIV-related sexual risk and substance use behaviors among Asian Pacific Islander (API) male-to-female (MTF) transgendered individuals, referred to here as API transgendered women. As part of a larger study on HIV risk among transgendered women of color (Nemoto, Operario, Keatley, Han, & Soma, 2004), a sample of 110 API transgendered women in San Francisco completed individual interviews, of which 13% reported being HIV-positive. In the past 30 days, one fifth of the sample engaged in unprotected receptive anal intercourse (URAI) with any male partner, nearly one half had sex while under the influence of substances, and over half used illicit drugs. In multivariate models, URAI was associated with commercial sex work (odds ratio [OR] = 4.23, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.10,16.25) and previous attempted suicide (OR = 5.83, 95% CI = 1.02, 33.44). Sex under the influence of substances was associated with commercial sex work (OR = 3.35, 95% CI = 1.11, 10.13) and having a college degree (OR = 5.32, 95% CI = 1.34, 21.18). Illicit drug use was associated with commercial sex work (OR = 7.15, 95% = 2.26, 22.63). Findings suggest that API MTF transgenders are on the front line of HIV risk for the API community, and provide insight into factors within this group that might contribute to unsafe sex and substance use. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: sexual risk behavior; substance use; Asian Pacific Islander; transgendered women; HIV risk; unsafe sex; Adolescent; Adult; Asian Americans; Data Collection; Female; Humans; Middle Aged; Oceanic Ancestry Group; Pacific Islands; Risk Assessment; Risk-Taking; San Francisco; Substance-Related Disorders; Transsexualism; Unsafe Sex; Comorbidity; Drug Usage; HIV; Sexual Risk Taking; Transsexualism; Asians; Pacific Islanders; Psychosexual Behavior; Safe Sex

Gay and lesbian self-identification: A response to Rotheram-Borus and Fernandez - Olson, Eva D.; King, Cheryl A. (Suicide and Life-Threatening Behavior, 1995)
Discusses the emergence or achievement of a personal identity in gay and lesbian adolescents. Responding to M. J. Rotheram-Borus and M. I. Fernandez's observation (see PA Vol 83:16944) regarding centrality of homosexual self-identification (SI), it is noted that the extent to which this may be a normative or healthy process is not discussed. There is lack of evidence to prove that many gay and lesbian adolescents will engage in problem behavior as a means of coping with this developmental task. Hence, generalizability of such findings is limited. Developmental stress is managed via evolution of mature defensive strategies and coping skills. SI involves reframing the idea of 'differentness' to positive concepts. Friends and acquaintances are identified as initial modes of disclosure. The integration of homosexual SI is not a linear process and is viewed from new perspectives over time, which are reintegrated. Suggestions for future research are made. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: developmental challenges in defining sexual orientation & self identity; homosexual adolescents; commentary; Homosexuality; Psychosexual Development; Self-Concept

Health and social service needs of transgender people in Chicago - Kenagy, Gretchen P.; Bostwick, Wendy B. (International Journal of Transgenderism, 2005)
A needs assessment of transgender people was conducted in Chicago in 2001 to assess their HIV risks, health and social service needs, and barriers to care. One-hundred and eleven transgender individuals, 78 male-to-females (MTFs) and 33 female-to-males (FTMs), participated in the study. Fourteen percent of respondents reported being HIV-positive; they were all male-to-female and the majority was of color. Risk factors for HIV included unprotected sex and willingness to have high-risk sex in the future. Respondents experienced high levels of violence. Two-thirds of respondents had thought of attempting suicide. Respondents reported a high need for health and social services, particularly MTFs and people of color. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: health service needs; social service needs; transgender people; Chicago; HIV risks; suicide; needs assessment; barriers to care; Health Service Needs; HIV; Needs Assessment; Social Services; Transsexualism; Risk Factors; Suicide; Treatment Barriers

The Falsification of Evidence by Derek Freeman: Self-Deception or Fraud? - Côté, James E. (Current Anthropology, 2013)
Comments on an article by Paul Shankman (see record [rid]2013-06978-007[/rid]). Professor Shankman has done the academic community a great service by exposing Freeman’s manipulative and selective release of information about the alleged hoaxing of Margaret Mead, a key component in what has been called one of the 'great feuds' of all times in science. Authors' involvement in this controversy began while researching a book on the changing transition to adulthood in contemporary Western societies. On the other hand, Freeman’s dramatic claims about the farreaching relevance for the history of social science of Mead’s portrayal of Samoan culture, especially the nature-nurture debate, appeared to be worthy of investigation. The findings of these and other inquiries were subsequently published. Suffice it to say that after sorting out the complex issues proposed by Freeman, commentator found little merit in many of authors' points of contention with Mead’s research, leaving me skeptical about his representation of other 'facts,' like Mead’s supposed hoodwinking. Commentators' first reaction to Shankman’s expose´ was to identify Freeman’s behavior as a clear case of academic fraud. However, it does not make sense that Freeman would leave a 'smoking gun' in his files that would prove that he egregiously misrepresented the interviews that supposedly proved his case. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2020 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: Fateful Hoaxing; Margaret Mead; tale; historical reconstruction; interviews; adolescent sex; sexual conduct; History; Psychosexual Behavior; Sexual Orientation; Storytelling; Self-Deception; Interviews

Self-harm - Skegg, Keren (The Lancet, 2005)
The term self-harm is commonly used to describe a wide range of behaviours and intentions including attempted hanging, impulsive self-poisoning, and superficial cutting in response to intolerable tension. As with suicide, rates of self-harm vary greatly between countries. 5-9% of adolescents in western countries report having self-harmed within the previous year. Risk factors include socioeconomic disadvantage, and psychiatric illness--particularly depression, substance abuse, and anxiety disorders. Cultural aspects of some societies may protect against suicide and self-harm and explain some of the international variation in rates of these events. Risk of repetition of self-harm and of later suicide is high. More than 5% of people who have been seen at a hospital after self-harm will have committed suicide within 9 years. Assessment after self-harm includes careful consideration of the patient's intent and beliefs about the lethality of the method used. Strong suicidal intent, high lethality, precautions against being discovered, and psychiatric illness are indicators of high suicide risk. Management after self-harm includes forming a trusting relationship with the patient, jointly identifying problems, ensuring support is available in a crisis, and treating psychiatric illness vigorously. Family and friends may also provide support. Large-scale studies of treatments for specific subgroups of people who self-harm might help to identify more effective treatments than are currently available. Although risk factors for self-harm are well established, aspects that protect people from engaging in self-harm need to be further explored. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2020 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: self harm; socioeconomic disadvantage; psychiatric illness; depression; substance abuse; anxiety disorders; suicide; Adolescent; Adult; Family; Female; Homosexuality; Humans; Male; Mental Disorders; Risk Factors; Self-Injurious Behavior; Social Class; Social Support; Suicide, Attempted; Risk Factors; Self-Destructive Behavior; Socioeconomic Status; Suicide; Economic Disadvantage; Anxiety Disorders; Drug Abuse; Major Depression; Mental Disorders

Encounter Across the Pacific: Secrets of Death and Beauty of a Japanese Deciphered by an American - Katsuta, Yuko (Contemporary Psychoanalysis, 2005)
Reviews the book, The Madness and Perversion of Yukio Mishima by Jerry S. Piven (2004). Yukio Mishima killed himself in 1970 at the age of forty-five after having created voluminous novels, plays, and essays. He was an extraordinary talent, the kind of genius that comes along perhaps once in three centuries by 'venturing places few have glimpsed and forcing readers to face their own darkness'. Mishima made his debut at the age of sixteen, and paved his career quite successfully till the end. He also exhibited himself nude for eccentric and surreal photographs, and appeared in gangster films. Mishima provokes a weird split regarding his reputation among the Japanese. Without doubt, he is regarded as one of the most respected Japanese writers. It is impossible for us to pass our school years without reading him. He is required reading. On the other hand, he exhibited himself in exceptionally unconventional ways. Mystery lies in his writing style, too. As Piven studiously probes, Mishima's writing is full of sadism and perversion. To give a few examples, we see a male protagonist reaching orgasm, gazing at a painting of Saint Sebastian penetrated by arrows and dying; scenes of homosexual rape and murder; a group of children crushing and dissecting a kitten, before poisoning and dissecting a sailor; an old writer making a young man copulate with his wife for his gratification and revenge; and a Buddhist acolyte raping an old crone during her husband's funeral service. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: Yukio Mishima; mystery; biography; homosexuality; Biography; Male Homosexuality; Psychoanalytic Interpretation; Secrecy; Suicide

Theoretical perspectives on suicide in gay men with AIDS - McNaught, Angela; Spicer, John (Social Science & Medicine, 2000)
Demonstrated how three concepts can incorporate the experiences of gay men with AIDS and how they contribute to understanding the problem of suicide in this population. Suicide among gay men with AIDS constitutes a significant theoretical and practical problem. In order to understand this problem it is necessary to consider the specific circumstances that surround these individuals. Whilst there are many theories of suicide with which to address the problem, few are able to capture the special context within which gay men with AIDS live. This article explores three broad concepts from the theoretical literature on suicide that have explanatory potential in this unique context. The three concepts are: the search for meaning in the midst of suffering, E. Shneidman's (1985) notion of unendurable psychological pain, and hopelessness. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: how search for meaning in the midst of suffering & Shneidman's notion of unendurable pain & hopelessness contribute to the understanding of experiences of gay men with AIDS & the problem of suicide; Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome; Affect; Cognition; Homosexuality, Male; Humans; Male; Morale; Psychological Theory; Stress, Psychological; Suicide; AIDS; Male Homosexuality; Meaning; Suicide; Theoretical Interpretation; Pain Perception; Suffering