The association between same-sex romantic attractions and relationships and running away among a nationally representative sample of adolescents

Citation

Waller, Martha W. & Sanchez, Rebecca P. (2011). The association between same-sex romantic attractions and relationships and running away among a nationally representative sample of adolescents. Child and Adolescent Social Work Journal. vol. 28 (6) pp. 475-493

Abstract

Sexual minorities are overrepresented among the runaway population, and sexual minority runaways are at greater risk for adverse health outcomes than their heterosexual peers. Our knowledge of this vulnerable population has been restricted by methodological limitations of existing studies. This study used a nationally representative sample of U.S. adolescents to explore the association between same-sex romantic attractions and relationships and run away behavior over a 2 year period. Results indicated that although the association between sexual orientation and running away appears to be partially attenuated by other risk factors for running away, there remains a significant positive association between same-sex romantic attractions and running away. Furthermore, youth with no romantic or sexual relationships were significantly less likely to report running away compared to youth with only opposite-sex relationships. These associations remained significant even after controlling for other risk factors.

URL

http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s10560-011-0242-0

Keyword(s)

Romantic

Reference Type

Journal Article

Journal Title

Child and Adolescent Social Work Journal

Author(s)

Waller, Martha W.
Sanchez, Rebecca P.

Year Published

2011

Volume Number

28

Issue Number

6

Pages

475-493

DOI

10.1007/s10560-011-0242-0

Reference ID

1308