Barriers to Accessibility for Lesbian and Gay Youth Needing Addictions Services

In: Youth & society: a quarterly journal, Band 27, Heft 3, S. 356-378

Abstract

Using a qualitative research method, this study investigates the ways in which homophobia and heterosexism constitute barriers to treatment for lesbian and gay youth in need of addictions services. Seventeen lesbian and gay youth were interviewed regarding their experiences in addictions services. The major barriers that they report include marginalization, avoidance of gay and lesbian issues, ignoring sexual orientation as an issue, deflection and contradiction, outing, harassment, early discharge, and misinformed staff. Recommendations are made for making addictions services more appropriate and accessible for lesbian and gay youth.