During my initial research I focused on the basics of homosexuality and how it is viewed by society. It was made clear that a lot of the hate towards the LGBT community stems from religions which do not allow homosexual relationships and believe that it is a sin to be in one. Religion has a large influence on people and what they believe and they have overall affected the societies they are largely popular in. Homosexuality has been viewed in cultures and societies as perverse and homosexual relationships has even been illegal in the United States, reenforcing the idea that homosexuality is not acceptable. Many people have wondered about the cause of homosexuality and have thought it could be a genetic, biological, phycological, social, or conscious choice. The possibility that homosexuality was a choice was eventually ruled out because there is no reason someone would choose to be discriminated against and victimized. According to the March 2003 article of ASHA Journal of School Health, there are four stages of ones self discovery of sexual identity. The first is "sensitization" when the person realizes their sexual identity other than straight. This usually happens at a young adolescent age and is often combated with the child hiding their sexuality from others in fear of being harassed or judged. They also often repress their homosexual thoughts. The next stage is "identity assumption" where the person accepts their sexuality and does not fully reveal it to others. The last step/stage is "identity consolidation" which is also known as coming out.  According to the group, Tolerance.com,  "Confidence and openness about their sexual orientation at a younger age, however, almost invariably exposes young people to homophobia and abuse at an early age." There is a fear of telling people in their society and their parents. Acceptance is crucial because it directly affects mental health. Homosexuals have a higher rate of dropping out of school, being kicked out of school, resorting to prostitution, drug use, alcohol use, and tobacco use. They are also two to seven times more likely to commit or attempt suicide compared to their heterosexual peers (Homosexuality and Bisexuality).