Gay children and suicidality: The importance of nurturance

McAndrew, S; Warne, AR

Abstract

Suicidality among young people is a global concern, with international studies demonstrating an increased prevalence among young gay men. Being gay is not inevitably linked to mental illness, but growing up gay in a heterosexist society can compromise mental well being. This qualitative study, using free association narrative interviewing, offers an in-depth understanding of gay men’s experience.
One shared experience that emerged was “knowing and not knowing,” the story of gay children growing up in a heterosexist society. This story provides valuable insights for mental health nurses becoming more attuned to the importance of providing professional nurturing of gay children.

Citation

McAndrew, S., & Warne, A. (2012). Gay children and suicidality: The importance of nurturance. Issues in Mental Health Nursing, 33(6), 348-354. https://doi.org/10.3109/01612840.2012.656821

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Publication Date: Jun 1, 2012
• Deposit Date: Jun 7, 2012
• Journal: Issues in Mental Health Nursing
• Print ISSN: 0161-2840
• Publisher: Informa Healthcare
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 33
• Issue: 6
• Pages: 348-354
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.3109/01612840.2012.656821
• Publisher URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.3109/01612840.2012.656821