An adolescent boy tells the nurse that he has recently had homosexual feelings. What knowledge should the nurse's response be based on?

A) This indicates the adolescent is homosexual.
B) This indicates the adolescent will become homosexual as an adult.
C) The adolescent should be referred for psychotherapy.
D) The adolescent should be encouraged to share his feelings and experiences.

These adolescents are at increased risk for health-damaging behaviors, not because of the sexual behavior itself, but because of society's reaction to the behavior. The nurse's first priority is to give the young man permission to discuss his feelings about this topic, knowing that the nurse will maintain confidentiality, appreciate his feelings, and remain sensitive to his need to talk about the topic. In recent studies among self-identified gay, lesbian, and bisexual adolescents, many of the adolescents report changing self-labels one or more times during their adolescence. An assessment must be made about any risks to himself or others. If these do not exist, the adolescent needs a supportive person to talk with.