Exploring the Vulnerabilities of LGBTQQ Youth: An Open Discussion
Date
2011-01-24
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National Children's Advocacy Center
Abstract
The average middle and high school youth hears an average of 25 lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender slurs per school day -- roughly one every 14 minutes. The impact on all youth is profound. By sheer volume, some will believe it’s OK to do "what everyone else is doing." By sheer volume, youth who are LGBTQ, or are questioning their sexual orientation, feel targeted, disempowered, and scared. For some, this treatment may lead to activism. For far too many, it leads to secrecy, depression, and even suicide.
Many youth who "come out" to their families -- or who may be "outed" to their families by school personnel or others -- are abused in or expelled from their homes. Many enter equally abusive foster or group care settings. Many run away and live on the streets, increasing both risk and despair.
These youngsters need competent and educated allies within their schools, community service settings, and faith communities, as well as child protective, legal, judicial, medical and therapeutic systems, in order to reduce risk and increase safety. In this Q and A forum we focus on understanding and responding to the needs of LGBTQQ youth who encounter bullying at school, expulsion from families, and/or rejection within foster and group care, and explore how we can all become better allies for this vulnerable population.
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Keywords
lesbian, bisexual, gay, transgender, LGBTQ, youth, sexual orientation
Citation
Dawber, E. (2011). Exploring the Vulnerabilities of LGBTQQ Youth: An Open Discussion. Huntsville, AL; National Children's Advocacy Center.