Coming Out, Coming in: Nurturing the Well-Being and Inclusion of Gay Youth in Mainstream Society

Adolescence is an awkward and difficult time, emotionally and physically trying under the best of circumstances, and borderline traumatic for the majority of teens who, in one way or another, fail to meet the lofty cultural and peer ideals of popularity, physical and sexual development, social skills, and general cool. Add into this mix a struggle with ones sexuality, and a gay teen will have an incredibly difficult journey through the formative years of adolescence and young adulthood."Coming Out, Coming In: Nurturing the Well-Being and Inclusion of Gay Youth in Mainstream Society" describes the process of coming in to a welcoming and nurturing family, from both the teens and the parents perspective. Linda Goldman draws on her personal and professional experience as a school guidance counselor, child and adolescent therapist, parent, and a member of the national group PFLAG to build a common language and a new paradigm for understanding sexual orientation and gender identity as a part of mainstream culture. Through the information, exercises, anecdotes, and extensive bibliography of additional resources provided in the book, parents, school administrators & educators, community groups and counselors will find the tools needed to facilitate nurturing and safe environments for our LGBT youth.