Coming out as a young lesbian: the effects of secondary school environments on young women being able to identify as lesbian: a proposal for change

Abstract

This research is given to exploring secondary school experiences as one specific factor that has an influence on young women being able to identify as lesbian. The overall aims of the research are to: provide a voice for young mainly pakeha lesbians; focus on secondary school experiences and what effects this has had on them being able to identify as lesbian; provide New Zealand based information; and to consider how the education system can be used to make information and resources available that will be supportive of young lesbians. It explores seven themes: What type of information is made available within secondary school about adolescent sexuality and in particular lesbian identity? How is information received about heterosexuality and lesbianism? What effects does this have on young women being able to identify as lesbian at school and since leaving school? What helps or could help young women 'come out' at school? What specific information could be made available and in what format? What strategies could be used for getting information into schools? How difficult is it to be a visible lesbian teacher within secondary school environments? A feminist approach to research was adopted. The methods included tape recorded interviews of ten young lesbians under the age of 22, two group interviews with young lesbians from lesbian and gay youth groups, and interviews with three lesbian teachers. Information about and for young lesbians was also collected. The research found that both young lesbians and lesbian teachers are subjected to homophobia, heterosexist oppression and discrimination. It further showed that young lesbians do not come out at school because school is not a supportive environment. For young lesbians to start developing healthy self esteem about their lesbian identity, while still at school, it is suggested that secondary schools could provide forums in which young lesbians are supported through having accessible information and visible lesbian teachers as role models. This research being exploratory in nature also suggests directions for further research about the lives of young lesbians as well as making a range of recommendations on the role of the school and wider community.