Dear boyzngirlz,

Good question! A more respectful way to handle the situation is to simply say, "Sorry, I'm not interested," or "I'm flattered, but I'm not gay." Anyone — straight or gay — should always be treated with respect, especially when being turned down. Straight people who fear that other people may think they're gay need to know that it's not an insult to be thought of as gay, and people don't need to feel threatened or embarrassed or overly defensive to try to "prove" that they're not gay.

In our society there is a tremendous amount of fear and hatred of people who are gay, lesbian, or bisexual. This fear is called homophobia. It is caused by ignorance, or misinformation and lack of understanding about what gay, lesbian, and bisexual people are really like.

Being different from society's sexual norms can be very difficult in our culture. Most people who are homophobic are worried about their own sexuality and project that fear on others. Accepting people, and ourselves, for being who we are is exactly the right attitude!

Hope this information helps!

Take care,

teenwire.com^® Editors

This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical problem, please call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment with the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.