Service Providers' Attitudes Toward LGBTQ Youth

• NCJ Number: 244411
• Journal: Residential Treatment for Children & Youth Volume: 30 Issue: 3 Dated: July-September 2013 Pages: 168-186
• Author(s): Megan E. Gandy, M.S.W., L.C.S.W.; Susan A. McCarter, M.S., M.S.W., Ph.D.; Sharon G. Portwood, J.D., Ph.D.
• Date Published: August 2013
• Length: 19 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This study examined mental health service providers' attitudes toward LGBTQ youth in an agency setting.

Abstract

This study examined mental health service providers' attitudes toward LGBTQ youth in an agency setting (n = 100) using the Homonegativity Scale, the Personal Comfort Assessment Tool, and the Gay Affirmative Practice Scale. The results of this study indicate that job category is associated with mental health agency employees' attitudes toward LGBTQ youth. Most notably, respondents from the Management/Supervisory category reported less homonegative attitudes toward LGBTQ youth than respondents from the Administrative/Clerical/Support job category. A post hoc regression analysis revealed that homonegative attitudes predict gay affirmative practice for this sample. Implications for policy and practice are explored. Abstract published by arrangement with Taylor and Francis.