ABSTRACT
The aim of this chapter is to explore specific developmental issues in the lives of people who identify as gay, bisexual, or lesbian—keeping in mind that these individuals face the same developmental tasks as do those who are heterosexually identified (who are, indeed, the unacknowledged subjects of traditional models of human development). In addition, LGB persons confront extraordinary issues raised by homophilic identity. The challenges of living a stigmatized identity and the accompanying constant demand to deal with heterosexism, internalized homophobia, and strategies of stigma management unavoidably complicate the process of development for LGB individuals.
