Creating Welcoming College Environments for LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer) Students By Rebecca Bleh 12/3/08

Equality U! G-ZHB61k G-ZHB61kThoughts???

On a lighter note….Gay Friendly Colleges! yjvtmEGdjk yjvtmEGdjk What are some things you heard?

My Research – Issues Facing LGBTQ Youth Negative attitudes about LGBTQ people are widespread. Negative stereotypes and images are part of heterosexism that continues to deny, denigrate, and stigmatize gay, lesbian and bisexual youth. AssumptionsAssumptions –Most not true and inaccurate Harmful interactions within social systems. Integrate their sexual identity with other identities.

My Research – Issues Facing LGBTQ Youth Cont’d. Negative attitudes towards LGBTQ individuals have not changed much. –Harassment and violence common. The increasing rates of HIV used to perpetuate negative stereotypes Internalized oppression and homophobia

My Research – Issues Facing LGBTQ Youth Cont’d. Many fear disownment from their family and friends and therefore, hide their sexuality. Stigmatization for being gay often leads to negative self-perceptions. –Suicide attempts –Feeling isolated –Low self esteem –Anxiety –Depression

My Research – What is the cost of these issues? Negative health outcomes young men (mostly gay or bisexual) are disproportionately affected by HIV. Alcohol useAlcohol use depends on what stage of development they are in Substance use disorders and psychological disorders LGB ethnic minorities.LGB ethnic minorities. LGB ethnic minorities may be subject to racial discrimination by other LGB people and anti-gay discrimination and disapproval in their racial community.

My Research – Recommendations Educators and student affairs professionals have a social responsibility to provide an environment that supports learning for all students that is free from abuse and discrimination. Institutions can do a number of things: –Mission statements –Anti-discrimination policy –Offices devoted to diversity and multicultural students –An office for LGBTQ students, faculty, and staff –Safe zone or safe space program –Student affairs professionals A.K.A. allies and advocates for LGBTQ students –Diversity training –Assess the climate of campuses –Educational programs –Faith-based organizations and churches

My Research – Recommendations Cont’d. Traditional gender roles, right-wing authoritarianism, and social dominance orientation Encourage critical thinking Relying on oneself Model gay and lesbian affirming beliefs and attitudes

My Research – Recommendations Cont’d. HIV prevention programs The development of a healthy sexual identity Organizations of LGBTQ youth Future-oriented approach to hate crimes Students are observant Challenge yourself and others!

Final Thought… Be the change you wish to see in the world. –Ghandi Take this information however you like, but remember… only you can decide what change you want and only you can make it happen.

References Cochran, S.D., Mays, V.M., Alegria, M., Ortega, A.N., & Takeuchi, D. (2007). Mental health and substance use disorders among Latino and Asian American lesbian, gay, and bisexual adults. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 75(5), Frable, D.E.S., Platt, L., & Hoey, S. (1998). Concealable stigmas and positive self-percetions: Feeling better around similar others. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 74(4), Goodman, M.B., & Moradi, B. (2008). Attitudes and behaviors toward lesbian and gay persons: Critical correlates and mediated relations. Journal of Counseling Psychology, 55(3), Harper, G.W. (2007). Sex isn’t that simple: Culture and context in HIV prevention interventions for gay and bisexual male adolescents. American Psychologist, Nov., Hatzenbueler, M.L., Corbin, W.R., & Fromme, K. (2008). Trajectories and determinants of alcohol use among LGB young adults and their heterosexual peers: Results from a prospective study. Developmental Psychology, 44(1), Hill, R.J., Childers, J., Childs, A.P., Cowie, G., Hatton, Annette, Lewis, J.B., et al. (2002). In the shadow of the arch: Safety and acceptance of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer students at the University of Georgia. (UGA Campus Climate Research Group). Athens, Georgia: University of Georgia, Campus Climate Research Group. Huebner, D.M., & Davis, M.C. (2007). Perceived anti-gay discrimination and physical health outcomes. Health Psychology, 26(5), King, B.R., & Black, K.N. (1999). College students’ perceptual stigmatization of the children of lesbian mothers. American Journal of Orthopsychiatry, 69(2), Sanlo, R. (2002). Scholarship in student affairs: Thinking outside the triangle, or Tabasco on cantaloupe. NASPA Journal, 39(2), Schlosser, L.Z., & Sedlacek, W.E. (2001). Hate on campus: A model for evaluating, understanding, and handling critical incidents. About Campus, March-April,