New Website Focuses on the Educational and Health Outcomes of LGBT Youth

February 3, 2011 – The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has created a new website dedicated to issues surrounding lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) youth and those who are questioning their sexual orientation.  The website provides an overview of problems experienced by LGBT youth and the negative effects those problems have on education and health.

According to the website, a 2009 online survey of more than 7,000 LGBT middle and high school students found that: 1) Eight in ten had been verbally or physically harassed at school in the past year; 2) Six in ten felt unsafe at school because of their sexual orientation; and 3) One in five had been the victim of physical assault. 

The website shows that such verbal and physical harassment has severe consequences to the academic success of LGBT youth.  For instance, according to the website, LGBT youth who experience more frequent harassment perform lower in school by almost half a grade point compared to their non-LGBT peers who experience less frequent or no harassment. In addition, the stresses experienced by LGBT youth put them at greater risk for mental health problems, substance abuse, suicide, and other health problems. 

The website describes what schools can do to help promote health and safety among LGBT youth including have clear policies, procedures and activities designed to prevent bullying and have supportive staff and student organizations to reduce verbal and physical harassment.  The website also outlines what parents can do to support their LGBT child.  Additionally, it includes several resources for LGBT youth and their friends; for educators and school administrators; and for parents as well.

Source:  CDC’s LGBT Youth’s website.