This section takes a look at different types of support groups in Massachusetts for gay, lesbian and heterosexual students interested in addressing issues related to sexual orientation, anti-gay prejudice and the concerns of lesbian and gay students and their friends. The groups also give all students a safe place to discuss their feelings and fears related to sexual orientation. A brief sampling of high school campuses reveals a variety of names for these groups. It is important to note that adults should participate in a limited basis and in an advisory capacity only. Over time, fewer and fewer students attend the meetings.
Groups tend to change their agendas for each week depending on the needs of the participants.
Most try to strike a balance between the political work of raising consciousness and reducing homophobia at the school, and dealing with the more personal or emotional issues of the members and offering the members support. The size of groups also varies widely from school to school, from just a few members to over fifty. It is important to stress that it does not matter how many people go to meetings. There has been a change in the general atmosphere of the school. There is an enormous awareness of what homophobia is and that there are homosexual and bisexual students.