9781422275283

Introduction Nobody is one thing. The identities of all people are comprised of various defining characteristics and traits that are influenced by their upbringing, their heritage, their socialization, and even simply their genetics. All people should be able to take pride in those collective features that make them who they are—including their gender identity and sexual orientation. As a teenager, coming out as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or questioning (LGBTQ) can be an experience that is at once liberating, exciting, terrifying, and complicated. Not only are you getting to know yourself better and becoming more aware of, and confident in, your sexual orientation and/or gender identity, but you are figuring out how to share that important part of your identity with the people in your life, from close loved ones and family members to classmates, friends, and coworkers. This book certainly does not answer all the questions that young LGBTQ individuals will likely encounter as they decide they want to come out and are ready to do so. It does, however, explore a number of pertinent topics to help you feel more prepared to embrace such a significant experience, one that is ongoing as you advance throughout life. Coming out is a personal choice for people of all sexual orientations and gender identities. Though the idea might seem a bit nerve-racking at first, the process can be liberating and empowering when done in your own time and on your own terms. Actively coming out may transpire in a number of different ways for different people, and everyone’s experience will be unique. Yet, many teenagers encounter a range of similar situations along the way. So, do not think you are alone if you find yourself wondering exactly what your sexual orientation is and how it fits into the bigger picture of who you are as a human being. Or if you want to come out at school but are unsure how it might affect you academically and socially. Or if you are scared about telling your parents and want advice on when, how, and where to do so.

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When You’re Ready • Coming Out