If we had to identify a period of life when the recognition of a homosexual identity would be the most disruptive, adolescence would be at the top of the list. According to psychologist Erik Erikson, adolescence is a time of identity versus confusion. During adolescence, children explore their independence and develop their self-esteem. Those who receive the appropriate encouragement and reinforcement through personal exploration will emerge from this stage with strong self-esteem and a sense of independence and control. Those who remain uncertain about their beliefs and desires will be uncertain and confused about themselves and the future (Crain, 2000). Successful completion of these steps may be hindered by identifying as a sexual minority. Andrew Sullivan discusses his experience as a gay teenager in his essay “What is a Homosexual?” » Gay adolescents learn from an early age that “survival depends on hiding oneself (Sullivan, 2008).” Sullivan illustrates the internal struggle of the homosexual adolescent with a powerful statement, asserting: “…what would give him the most meaning is most likely to destroy him in the eyes of others; that the condition of his friendships is the subjugation of himself (Sullivan, 2008). The use of the word destroy is a haunting acknowledgment of the bullying that occurs in our schools and on our social media sites. The idea that gay adolescents not only keep their sexual orientation private, but suppress this aspect of their being, is detrimental to the development of strong self-esteem. Sullivan's description of the experience of growing up as a person "profoundly different in emotional and psychological makeup" reiterates how challenging it is for...... middle of paper ......so . Journal of Consulting and Development, 36-40.Crain, W. C. (2000). Development theories: concepts and applications. Saddle River: Prentice Hall. Elias, T.D. (January 24, 2000). Gays are making progress in California. News overview. Knickerbocker, B. (September 11, 2000). The elections highlight the battle for gay rights. The Christian Science Monitor. Raspberry, W. (May 1, 2000). Why not encourage monogamy? The Washington Post. Soule, S.A. (2004). Go to the Chapel? Ban on same-sex marriage in the United States. Social Problems, 453-477. Teicher, S.A. (1999, July 19). The debate is intensifying over same-sex marriages. The Christian Science Monitor. Teicher, S.A. (December 22, 1999). The decision will spark states' interest in same-sex marriages. The Christian Science Monitor. Wood, D.B. (2000, March 2). Protect marriage or marginalize homosexuals? The Christian Science Monitor.