|
|
"In a study into the sexual orientation and gender identity development of thousands of youth across the nation, a San Diego State University team found that about 1 percent of 9 and 10-year old children surveyed self-identified as gay, bisexual or transgender. As the majority of studies indicate that lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) self-identification generally occurs during the mid-adolescent years, the study by SDSU researchers Jerel P. Calzo and Aaron J. Blashill is providing unprecedented insight into early identity development."This is such an important stage, biologically and socially. At 9 and 10, youth--whether through their peers, media or parents--are beginning to be exposed to more information about relationships and interacting in the world. Even about sex," said lead author Calzo, an associate professor in the SDSU School of Public Health. "They may not see any of this as sexual, but they are beginning to experience strong feelings." "
article continues at https://medicalxpress.com/news/2018-09-percent-children-aged -self-identify.html
If I'd had the word "gay", and the support and social acceptability that we have (in some parts of the world), I would certainly have identified as gay by the age of 9. As it was, it took me until my early 20s (nearly 40 years ago!) to claim "out gay man" as a primary social identity.
(h/t to milkboys.net for making me aware of this research)
"The ultimate weakness of violence is that it is a descending spiral, begetting the very thing it seeks to destroy. ... Returning violence for violence multiplies violence, adding deeper darkness to a night devoid of stars." Martin Luther King
|
] 
A Place of Safety
Search
Help
Register
Login
Home
