The author addresses social work practice with gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender (GLBT) youth.Identity development, including disclosure and the emergence of sexuality are discussed, along with family and school issues. Particular emphasis is given to a number of risk factors that GLBT youth encounter: emotional distress, isolation, internalized homophobia/transphobia, depression, substance abuse, suicide, violence/victimization, family conflict, school performance, and sexually transmitted diseases and pregnancy. Guidelines for social work practice with GLBT youth are presented.
SUMMARY This article addresses the impact of traditional Judeo-Christian religion as a tool of social injustice against lesbians. The prejudices of sexism and heterosexism in religion are addressed. Biblical interpretations of woman-to-woman sexuality are reviewed. Primary Judeo-Christian groups, and their respective positions on homosexuality, are identified. Conversion therapy as a weapon of oppression against lesbians is addressed. Mechanisms for religious/spiritual transformation and empowerment are discussed, and suggestions for therapeutic intervention with lesbians recovering from religious trauma are offered.
Older lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) persons face many challenges in aging, including coping with life-long discrimination and encountering family and others who are not supportive of their identities and relationships. Members of this population who reside in small towns and rural areas face even more challenges in older adulthood. This article presents a case study of an older woman who is questioning her sexual orientation and discusses her experiences in the context of aging in a rural community. The article also addresses the historical context in which older LGBT people came of age as well as health issues that impact them. In addition, recommendations are offered for improving provider services with LGBT individuals.
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