Citation

Hirsch JK, Ellis JB. Arch. Suicide Res. 1998; 4(3): 243-248.

Affiliation

Department of Psychology, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN 37614-0649, United States

Copyright

(Copyright © 1998, International Academy of Suicide Research, Publisher Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/13811119808258299

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

For researchers, suicide is a major concern in young adults. The additional stressors that may be present for gay or lesbian individuals may promote less adaptive characteristics than in heterosexual individuals. Gay and lesbian and heterosexual subjects completed the Reasons for Living Inventory (RFL) to determine levels of adaptive characteristics that may prevent suicidal behaviors. Results indicated that gay men and lesbian women endorsed less reasons for living than did heterosexual individuals. This reduced level of coping skills may be a result of increased responsibilities, demands, and stressors associated with choosing a homosexual lifestyle.