ABSTRACT
This chapter describes a four-step process of becoming. From their initial feelings of being different, gay, lesbian, and bisexual individuals gradually become aware of their same-sex attractions, engage in same sex erotic behavior and dating, and finally self-identify as lesbian, gay, or bisexual. Many sexual-minority youths state that before they even knew what the difference was they were convinced of its importance. Myths and stereotypes of lesbians, gays, and bisexuals are a source of much of their confusion. The rationalization strategy uses the claim that the behavior was only for gratification and was a special case or situation. Lesbian and gay youths are more likely to engage in early sexual behavior of all types than are heterosexuals. The relative lateness of sexual identification tor lesbians and gays as compared to heterosexuals can he attributed to homophobia, discrimination, and societal prohibitions. Self-identification with others becomes positive.
