1. Implementing Strategic Support for Sexual Minority Youth and Exploring the Effects of Social Connectedness
- Author
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Whidden, Dawn, Brown, Kelly, and Nix, J. Vince
- Abstract
Sexual minority youth (SMY) students who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender (LGBT+) often struggle with gender identity and sexual orientation (Craig, Austin, & McInroy, 2014). The inclusion of Gay-Straight Alliances (GSA) and Safe Zones have united students and facilitated cultural shifts in schools (Patterson, 2013). Gay-Straight Alliances build metaphorical bridges by connecting all students regardless of their beliefs and cultural differences. By creating an inclusive environment--meaning one that has established a Gay-Straight Alliance, creating Safe Zones for students, and enriching the curriculum with resiliency lessons--the overall social connectedness mean scores would likely increase, resulting in happier and more productive students. The main research question for this study was: How does social connectedness improve in a Texas high school that creates an inclusive learning environment? Over the course of the study, steps were taken to create an inclusive environment for all students. Results suggested the importance of social connectedness for individuals to their environment regardless of identifying as SMY. The benefit of creating an inclusive environment (GSA, established Safe Zones, and implemented resiliency curriculum) was justified.
- Published
- 2020