Suggestions for Working with Gay, Lesbian, and Bisexual Students


  1. Donāt be surprised when someone comes out to you.


  2. Respect confidentiality. It is imperative that you can be trusted.


  3. Be informed. Most of us are products of a homophobic society. It is important that you are aware of the needs of gay, lesbian, and bisexual students.


  4. Examine your own biases. If you are uncomfortable dealing with the issue, and know that you are unable to be open and accepting, you need to refer the student to someone else.


  5. Know when and where to seek help. Know all available resources.


  6. Maintain a balanced perspective. Sexual thoughts and feelings are only a small (but important) part of a personās self.


  7. Understand the meaning of "sexual orientation". Each personās sexual orientation is natural to that person.


  8. Deal with feelings first. You can be helpful by just allowing a lesbian, gay, or bisexual student the opportunity to vent feelings.


  9. Help but donāt force. Lesbians, gays, and bisexuals need to move at a pace with which they feel most comfortable.


  10. Be supportive. Share with them that this is an issue that others must deal with too.


  11. Donāt try to guess whoās gay.


  12. Challenge bigoted remarks and jokes. This shows support.





Source: PFLAG (Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays