Perceptions of Acceptance and Rejection among LGBTQ Former Foster Youth

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR: Lauren Herod, MSW

Florida Institute for Child Welfare

CO-PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR: Lisa Magruder, Ph.D., MSW

Florida Institute for Child Welfare

OVERVIEW

Previous research indicates lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) youth are overrepresented in the child welfare system,33,34 and experience unique challenges with respect to transitioning from care.35 Following a comprehensive review of literature on both the experiences of LGBTQ youth engaged with the child welfare system and accepted best practices regarding working with LGBTQ youth in out-of-home care, Institute researchers identified several priority topics to explore (e.g., experiences of acceptance and rejection). The researchers are planning a multi-phase, mixed methods study to gain an understanding of child welfare-related experiences of LGBTQ-identified former foster youth in Florida.

NEXT STEPS

In fall 2022, the researchers will finalize the study plan and determine appropriate staffing. The Institute will seek to include individuals with lived expertise on the research team (i.e., an LGBTQ-identified former foster youth) as personnel or a paid consultant. Data collection is expected to begin in early 2023.