From the November 2000 issue. We learn much of what we take into adulthood during childhood.
Values taught by our parents help shape our identities.
If in any way this critical stage in a person's life is abruptly taken away or disrupted, a level of security suddenly disappears. Coming out as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or questioning to your family certainly counts as one these scenarios. Many Asian and Pacific Islander cultures, giving respect to their uniqueness and diversity, have negative perceptions of homosexuality. Sexuality as a whole is still very much a taboo. Children are not encouraged to talk about sex, much less sexual orientation to anyone.