This document provides professionals with basic knowledge of LGBTQIA2S+ identities, how those identities might impact children’s and families’ needs, and how MDTs can adapt their practices to serve those needs.
This guidance document provides an overview of LGBTQIA2S+ cultural factors; a description of the forensic interview process when working with LGBTQIA2S+ children, youth, and families; and post-forensic interview multidisciplinary team (MDT) responses for law enforcement, child protection, prosecution, advocacy, mental health, medical, and cultural liaisons and subject matter experts. The document discusses the increased risk factors for LGBTQIA2S+ youth, including transgender and nonbinary youth, who experience higher rates of childhood sexual abuse than cisgender children, and lower levels of life satisfaction with an increased likelihood of using illegal drugs and engage in unprotected sexual behaviors, and higher likelihood of experiencing mental illness. Therefore, the document is intended to provide professionals with basic knowledge of LGBTQIA2S+ identities, how those identities might affect the needs of children and families, and how MDTs can adapt their processes and practices to better support those needs.