Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) people are at a high risk for bullying, harassment, physical assault and suicide behavior.
According to the 2015 National School Climate Survey LGBTQ students between the ages of 13 and 20 experience the following:
85% are verbally harassed at school.
27% are physically harassed at school
57% feel unsafe at school
13% are victims of a physical assault
48% experience cyberbullying via text messages or social media posts.
Unfortunately, these types of experiences also occur outside of school and may continue into young adulthood. As such, groups that provide support for LGBTQ youths can play an important role in mitigating bullying in the community. Such groups include the following:
Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG):
Visit: www.pflag.org
Local LGBTQ student groups and gay-straight alliances
Local LGBTQ support groups and community centers
No matter their sexual orientation, children, teenagers and young adults grow stronger when they feel accepted and supported in the community. These tips can help you create a supportive environment for LGBTQ youths:
Get involved. Supportive people who promote a caring environment can make a tremendous difference in a young person’s life. This is especially true for LGBTQ youths, who may be rejected by the people most important to them.
Build strong connections. LGBTQ youths need solid bonds with their family, friends, school and community.
Prohibit bullying. A supportive environment should be promoted in schools, workplaces and other community organizations.
Support strong anti-bullying initiatives. Policies and activities designed to prevent bullying help provide a supportive environment for LGBTQ youths and reduce the risk of suicide.
Information provide by Los Angeles County Mental Health – Bullying Prevention
24 hour hotline 800.448.1833 Suicide prevention 800.273.8255