Technology has helped the LGBTA community of youth because it has helped them to connect with each other, especially those who struggle in smaller, unaccepting communities. It gives the youth a sense of belonging and need that they desire and may not be receiving in their home, community or school. Mass media has also helped to have a sense of understanding for people who are LGBT because they are portrayed as people, which is what they are.
“It may help parents and caregivers to learn that the Web—and digital tools in general—can actually be beneficial for teens. This may be especially true for teens that are otherwise isolated or marginalized. Youth who are lesbian, gay, or bisexual (LGB) often grapple with the social risk of losing family and friends by coming out and the physical risk of being attacked. For LGB youth, the Internet can provide a welcoming community of other young people looking to share their experiences and gain support. Discrimination at schools is sometimes so widespread that recently the ACLU found “some public schools are using web filtering software to block student access to positive information about LGBT issues and organizations” yet allowing web access to anti-LGBT sites or sites with information about changing LGB sexual orientation. (5) With such hostile environments offline, an accepting and supportive online space can be lifesaving.” (Teens and Technology, Psychology Today; Published on December 30, 2013 by Dr. Michele Ybarra, MPH, Ph.D.)
As there are many positives to technology, the negatives that hinder technology is the same for any student and youth in the world. Technology has its negative affects because people still bully and say negative things behind the keyboard of a computer, cellphone or tablet. This is something that will only change as we give society the knowledge that they need to learn about those who are different from them and believe things they do not understand. Technology and mass media have negative affects on all students who attend school today with bullying, name calling and the need or want to belong. Although LGBT students may have more negative things thrown their way by other students, all youth deal with the negative of technology and mass media.
LGBTA Project 