Coming of age in a heterosexist world: the development of gay and lesbian adolescents.

The general developmental struggles of gay and lesbian adolescents are described as delineated in recent research. Three developmental areas were selected as a focus: the consolidation of sexual identity and the effects of both parental and peer relationships on gay adolescents' development. Weaknesses are noted in current research and theory, and suggestions are offered which could facilitate the development of both homosexual and heterosexual youth.