Many teens are coming out of the closet earlier than other generations.  Today, it's easier to come out compared to 20 to 30 years ago.  Society is somewhat more accepting of gays and lesbians, but society is not perfect.  Most people shun or condemn gay and lesbian teens.  Unfortunately, parents can find it difficult to accept that their teenage son or daughter is gay or lesbian.

The American Psychological Association defines sexual orientation as such: Sexual orientation is an enduring emotional, romantic, sexual, or affectional attraction that a person feels toward another person. Sexual orientation falls along a continuum. In other words, someone does not have to be exclusively homosexual or heterosexual, but can feel varying degrees of attraction for both genders. Sexual orientation develops across a person's lifetime—different people realize at different points in their lives that they are heterosexual, gay, lesbian, or bisexual.

The teenage years are known as the exploration years.  You're trying to figure out who you are and that includes your sexuality.  You may have thoughts or feelings about the same sex.  Does this make you gay or lesbian?  What does it mean to be gay or lesbian?  It's believed that you are born gay or lesbian.  However, some people believe that you choose your sexuality.  Science has proven to a certain degree that people are born gay or lesbian; it's not a choice.

PFLAG

Teens, the good news is that you don't have to face coming out of the closet alone.  Visit PFLAG:  Parents, Families, and Friends of Lesbians and Gays which is "a national non-profit organization with over 200,000 members and supporters and over 500 affiliates in the United States.  This vast grassroots network is cultivated, resourced and serviced by the PFLAG national office, located in Washington, D.C., the national Board of Directors and 13 Regional Directors."

Teens, you and your family could find a local chapter of PFLAG in your area.  Joining a group with like-minded people is the best way to get the support you need when you come out or if you'd like to come out to family and friends.

How do you tell your parents you're gay or lesbian

Coming out to your parents can be very scary because you don't know how they'll react or you may have an "inner knowing" how they will react.  Cut your parents some slack.  Telling them that you're gay or lesbian will be difficult for some parents to digest.  After all, in their eyes, you're still their little boy or girl who used to run around the yard and play in the sandbox.  It may take them time before they embrace your sexuality.

You may want to have a friend, counselor, or therapist by your side when you come out to your parents.  It will take a lot of courage for you to tell your parents that you are gay or lesbian.  Having someone by your side that supports you can make it easier for you tell your parents your news.

Just be you

As long as you're comfortable with who you are that's all that matters.  Live your life for you and no one else.  Parents, family members, and friends may not accept or be able to handle your sexuality -- that's their problem!  As long as you're happy and comfortable in your own skin, you'll be fine...