Exploring the Role of an LGBTQ-Affirming School Climate in Safety and Victimization in a Rural School District

• In Event: 56.071 - Inclusive Learning Environments in Rural Schools

Abstract

Research has documented LGBTQ students perceived school climate, safety, and victimization. Studies have focused mostly on LGBTQ students in urban and suburban communities, while few have focused on rural LGBTQ youth. Given this gap in the research, the purpose of this study is to examine relationships among components of an LGBTQ affirming school climate, perceptions of safety, and victimization among students attending a rural school district. Findings from this study revealed that teacher and peer intervention were the strongest predictors of safety and victimization among LGBTQ youth in rural schools. The study results inform school-based interventions for LGBTQ youth in rural schools and contribute to scholarship exploring social justice and LGBTQ youth issues in rural education.

Authors

• Kris M. De Pedro, Chapman University

• Robert Jason Lynch, Old Dominion University

• Monica Christina Esqueda, Old Dominion University