Homelessness and Mental Health (Part 3)

Within the issue of homelessness, a troubling trend is emerging related to sexual orientation and lifestyle. Research suggests that 20-40 percent of all homeless youth identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender (LGBT). Given that only 3-5 percent of the U.S. population identifies as lesbian, gay, or bisexual, it is clear that LGBT youth experience homelessness at a disproportionate rate. The number of LGBT youth that are becoming homeless is reaching epidemic levels. What is leading to this phenomenon? To begin with, family conflict is the primary cause of homelessness for all youth, LGBT or heterosexual. It probably comes as no surprise that familial conflict over a youth's sexual orientation or gender identity is a significant factor that leads to homelessness. According to one study, 50 percent of LGBT teens experienced a negative reaction from their parents when they came out and 26 percent were kicked out of their homes. That means that the parents of 1 out of every 4 youth that comes out kicks their child out of the home to fend for him or herself on the streets. Unfortunately, this is reflective of the heterosexism in our society and the discrimination members of the LGBT community face in general. Although progress has been made in regards to the treatment of the LGBT community in recent years, we are still leaps and bounds away from true equality. Sadly, it is still acceptable at times to discriminate, bully, and direct hate toward members of the LGBT community. As this inequality persists, we will continue to observe a disproportionate number of homeless LGBT youth. With increased tolerance and acceptance of the LGBT community as a whole, we will also achieve a reduction in the number of LGBT youth who are driven to homelessness. And that's a win-win if you ask me.