Research suggests that homophobia and heterosexism greatly contribute to higher rates of suicide, violence victimization, risk behavior for HIV infection, and substance abuse among LGBT youth as compared to their heterosexual peers. In recent years, however, a number of promising programs have been established to help LGBT youth gain the skills and support needed in order to develop into healthy adults in a society that rejects their existence.
Research indicates gay males recognize their sexual orientation at an earlier age than do females.
The consequences of this abuse may include truancy, dropping out, poor grades, and having to repeat a grade. Studies have found from 30 to 70 percent of gay males and lesbians experience verbal or physical assault in school. Young people are often afraid to seek support, even where it is available. Because LGBT youth often internalize society's negative messages regarding sexual orientation, many suffer from self-hatred as well as social and emotional isolation. As within mainstream culture, homophobia within ethnic minority communities is high.