Sexuality: Gay, Straight & Bisexual / Question
Published: November 16, 1999
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I am a gay male who is interested in a straight male? Is this okay and what should I do?
Signed: Seeking Gay Love
Dear Seeking Gay Love,
It is okay to be attracted to someone who does not have the same sexual preference as you; however, you cannot change the other person's sexual orientation. If the man you are interested in is a straight male, there is little you can do. Sexuality, sexual preference and sexual orientation are biological and predetermined traits. It is not environmental and you cannot change your sexuality or sexual feelings.
It is normal to feel attracted to many different people while you are a teenager. Many teenagers are just establishing their sexual identity. Sometimes they develop same sex "crushes", but this may not mean they are definitely gay. Other teens are having a difficult time coping with their gay identity. If you are comfortable with your sexual identity, GREAT! If you have questions, concerns, or are feeling sad or depressed, talk to an adult, like your parents, a professional counselor, a doctor, a teacher or a school nurse.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
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