Young people have the right to define their own sexuality and should be supported in the decisions they make about their own sexuality.
Many young people experience homophobia (the fear and hatred of those who love and sexually desire those of the same sex.)[1] and transphobia (the fear, hatred, disgust and discrimination of transgendered people because of their non-conforming gender status)[2], which have significant impacts on their health and wellbeing.
It’s the responsibility of all people who work with young people to ensure services are supportive of Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex and/or Queer (GLBTIQ) young people. People who work with young people should have an understanding of young people’s individual construction of identity and work to ensure they are supported through this process.
Some tips for workers to assist young people who identify as Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex, and / or Queer (GLBTIQ)
This section was developed in collaboration with the Youth Sexuality and Gender Diversity Network.
If in doubt, don’t use a label. Take the lead from the young person. Don’t assume or impose a label or stereotype. As the acronym “GLBTIQ” suggests, this is a diverse group of people with a wide range of issues.
Some things people working with GLBTIQ young people can do to help reduce isolation and fear include:
Does the service/program…
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