ERIC Number: EJ1410816
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2024
Pages: 8
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0022-4391
EISSN: EISSN-1746-1561
Improving School Environments for Preventing Sexual Violence among LGBTQ+ Youth
Avanti Adhia; Dylan Pugh; Ruby Lucas; Megan Rogers; Jessi Kelley; Betty Bekemeier
Journal of School Health, v94 n3 p243-250 2024
Background: Sexual violence (SV) is a serious public health concern, and lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and questioning (LGBTQ+) youth report higher rates than their heterosexual and cisgender peers. This qualitative study aimed to understand LGBTQ+ students' perspectives on how middle and high school environments can better prevent and address SV. Methods: In partnership with a school-based LGBTQ+ support group in Washington State, we recruited 31 LGTBQ+ students ages 13-18 for virtual interviews (n = 24) and for providing text-based answers to interview questions (n = 7). We used inductive thematic analysis to analyze data and identify themes. Results: To prevent and respond to SV, students highlighted schools having: (1) access to gender-neutral spaces; (2) LGBTQ+ competency training for staff; (3) enforcement of school policies (eg, SV, anti-bullying) and accountability; (4) LGBTQ+-competent mental health support; and (5) comprehensive sexual health education that addresses LGBTQ+ relationships and SV. Implications for School Health Policy, Practice, and Equity: Students expressed the need for changes in school physical and social environments to address SV among LGBTQ+ youth. Conclusions: Incorporating youth perspectives, particularly LGBTQ+ youth at high risk of SV, can help schools implement strategies that are supported by youth and thus potentially more sustainable and effective.
Descriptors: Adolescents, LGBTQ People, Violence, Sexual Abuse, Rape, Prevention, Educational Environment, Sexual Identity, Middle School Students, High School Students, Student Empowerment, Student Attitudes, At Risk Persons
Wiley. Available from: John Wiley & Sons, Inc. 111 River Street, Hoboken, NJ 07030. Tel: 800-835-6770; e-mail: cs-journals@wiley.com; Web site: https://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2191/en-us
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Junior High Schools; Middle Schools; Secondary Education; High Schools
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) (DHHS/PHS)
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Washington
Grant or Contract Numbers: U01CE003210
Data File: URL: www.ashaweb.org