A very grounded article on sexual identity development from a reputed Journal. the major points to take away are these:
Sexual minority adolescents due to fear of stigma, and rejection can lead to the use of compartmentalization as a defense
Their is a difference in the context of identity development between males and females.
The age of self identifying has decreased over the last 10 years.
Youths with same sex orientations are twice as likely to report suicide attempts/ideation and more likely to abuse alcohol, feel hopeless, depressed and victimized
Adolescents are attuned to the clinician’s attitudes and anxieties.
Allow the adolescent to explore all dimensions of his/her sexuality
Sexual attraction may vary and shift over time
Assess real and perceived supports
Help family members explore the meaning of the young person’s sexuality in relation to their own self view.