Best Practices to Support LGBTQ Youth

Level: Advanced Practice

Credits: 6

Intended Audience: This course is intended for all levels of child welfare staff, line workers, supervisors and managers

Description of Course: This course will explore the high degree of risk of abuse and neglect faced by gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender and questioning youth. Due to lack of information and visibility, this group of young people face physical, sexual and emotional abuse at home, school and in society at large. Discussion will include an overview of the stages of sexual identity development and identification of the physical and emotional stressors experienced by this population. Cultural and institutional dynamics that reinforce this abuse will be explored. Case vignettes, role plays and video clips will be utilized to reinforce learning concepts.

Intended Objectives: After completing this course you will be able to:

• Identify the 5 stages of identify development for LCBTQ youth
• Identify 3 risk factors for LGBTQ
• Identify 3 strengths often present in LGBTQ
• Value the importance of community partnerships, collaboration, and resource information when working with LGBTQ youth and families
• List at least 3 specific resource organizations
• Describe 3 strategies to employ in your work setting to create a more welcoming environment for LGBTQ youth

Topics Include:

• Identification of Terms
• Stages of Identity Development
• Risk Factors
• Intervention Strategies
• Organizational Barriers
• Resources