Sexuality: Gay, Straight & Bisexual / Question
Published: September 30, 2003
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I am a 16 year old male and I am only attracted to males. I know it may be too early to know if I am really a homosexual, but i'm pretty sure. I have not talked to ANYONE about my sexual feelings because I am ashamed of it. I was just wondering, if i actually am gay, is there any way that I can change my sexual orientation. I truly whish I could be straight.
Signed: Can I Change My Sexual Orientation?
Dear Can I Change My Sexual Orientation?,
TeenHealthFX believes that that you are not too young to figure out if you are homosexual or not. Only you can define your sexual orientation, and if you feel you know what it is, no one can tell you you are too young to know.
Unfortunately, while sexual orientation sometimes changes as we mature, there is not anything you can do to deliberately change your sexual orientation. We know this is difficult for you to hear, and we are sorry to hear that you are ashamed of being gay. TeenHealthFX knows that it is difficult for you to accept yourself as you are now. There are organizations devoted to teens struggling with their sexual identity that have resources and people that you can talk to.
You do not mention how you think your parents view homosexuality. We suggest you try talking to them if you think they would be accepting of you. If you think they would reject you, try talking to a teacher, a school counselor, a relative, or another adult who you trust first about your struggle. You might be surprised how understanding they are, and it might help to talk about how you feel instead of keeping it inside.
The following organizations are for gay teens to help with the process of dealing with their sexuality where they can also meet other gay teens:
If or when you do come out to your parents and friends, you might suggest that they get information from P-FLAG (Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays)
Also, we want you to know that you are not alone in feeling this way. Try looking at some of the other answers on this site under "Sexuality: Gay, Straight, Bisexual" for more information.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
In the 
