ABSTRACT
Developing intimate relationships during adolescence is normative for all adolescents but may have specific benefits for sexually and gender diverse (SGD) adolescents. In this chapter, we focus on intimate relationships among SGD adolescents by identifying the type of relationship (e.g., committed, casual) that adolescents might explore as well as the kind of support SGD may experience in intimate relationships. Because SGD adolescents must regularly contend with sexual and/or gender identity-based discrimination and may face rejection due to their SGD identities, intimate relationships can serve as a buffer to minority stress and may support sexual and/or gender identity development. Beyond support, there are several motivations that SGD adolescents have for seeking intimate relationships, such as intimacy, pleasure for self and others, and connection to community. Structural oppression in society through anti-LGBTQ+ legislation continues to negatively impact SGD adolescent’s ability to freely and safely explore intimate relationships, though technology has made access to potential partners much easier. Discussion includes suggestions on how to leverage intimate relationships for practitioners and the next steps in research on SGD intimate relationships for researchers.
