Sexual orientation, health and life satisfaction among Icelandic year 10 adolescents: Changes from 2006 to 2014

Abstract

In 2006, 2010, and 2014, the whole population of year 10 students in Iceland were surveyed and responded to a number of questions related to sexual orientation, health, and life satisfaction. About 3.1% (2006), 3.6% (2010), and 4.4% (2014) identified as lesbian, gay, or bisexual (LGB), whereas about 3.9%, 4.3%, and 5.6%, respectively, were assessed as being of unknown sexual orientation (USO). Results across the three survey time points indicated that, in general, LGB adolescents experienced more adverse outcomes compared to USO adolescents. LGB adolescents tended to experience reduced life satisfaction, were more likely to dislike school, and were more likely to be bullied. Some sex differences were also apparent, especially with respect to school satisfaction. While the gaps between LGB and USO adolescents still exist, some progress appears to be occurring, and this was especially evident from 2010 to 2014. However, more work still needs to be done both in schools and society to assist minority sexual orientation adolescents navigate this pivotal time in their development.