What is gender? What are gender stereotypes? What's the difference between being a tomboy or an effeminate man and being transgender? What are your options when you feel like your physical sex is out of sync with who you are? Explore the answers to these questions and more with an in-depth look at what it means to be transgender. Learn from the personal experiences of people who have taken steps to transition from the sex they were assigned at birth...

"That's so gay!" is a put down sadly still heard in the hallways of many schools. Words have power and can be used to hurt people or make them feel good about themselves. Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning (LGBTQ) young people know this all too well. If you let them, stereotypes can hold you back from being the full individual that you are. This book explores common LGBT stereotypes that persist both outside and inside the community....

The horrific 1998 murder of 21-year-old college freshman Matthew Shepard brought the issue of hate crimes against lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) people to the attention of the American people. The Matthew Shepard Foundation lobbied hard along with other LGBT groups, and in 2009 the federal hate crimes law was amended to include violence against LGBT people for the first time. In spite of the legal victory, however, the fear and hatred...

Feeling good inside and out should be everyone's goal. But lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) people often have a tougher time of it as they grapple with issues such as shame, rejection, and low self-esteem. This book discusses the unique pressures that lead too many LGBT youth to alcohol, drug, and tobacco abuse as well as eating disorders, unsafe sex, and unwanted pregnancy. Learn how to cope with feelings of alienation and depression,...

As part of the normal experience of growing up, many teenagers feel significant stress, confusion, and self-doubt. These intense emotions can be overwhelming for anyone but are often that much more challenging for LGBT youth. Without the resources or support they need, too many will suffer the depression and self-hatred that lead to alcohol and drug abuse, unsafe sex, and suicidal thoughts. The good news is that there are more sources of help to turn...