ABSTRACT
This chapter outlines findings from an original qualitative research study that aims to access the perspectives of young lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender (LGBT) people about how non-normative sexual and gender identities are linked to feelings of extreme distress and self-destructive behaviours. It argues that shame-avoidance strategies of shame avoidance might lead young LGBT people to manage homophobia individually, without expectation of support, and as such may make them vulnerable to self-destructive behaviours. By eliciting the perspectives of young LGBT people, it sought to understand why young people with sexual and gender identities that do not fit with heterosexual and gender norms may consider engaging in self-destructive practices. More research is required to develop understanding of the mental health consequences, for young LGBT people, of negotiating everyday settings framed by the normative discourses, institutions and structures of heterosexuality. Outness is constructed as the proud subject position, and a closeted sexual identity is the failed, shamed LGBT subject position.
