Saying Gay: Student-Reported Benefits of LGBTQ+-Inclusive Sexual Health Education

• In Event: Fairmont Roundtable Session Two
  In Roundtable Session: Lessons on Supporting Minoritized Learners and Teachers (Table 6)

Abstract

Sexual health education within the U.S. is a controversial topic. To better understand middle schoolers’ experiences within an LGBTQ+ inclusive sexual health education program (Get Real; Planned Parenthood League of Massachusetts), we utilized Situated Expectancy-Value Theory to investigate 53 responses from 30 students about what they deemed most beneficial after program completion, pertaining to LGBTQ+ topics. Four themes were identified: allyship/civility, safety, learning, and ongoing need for increased inclusion. Results suggest inclusive sexual health education is valued by middle school students, with there being a need for increased inclusive LGBTQ+ sexual health education. Designing sexual health curricula fostering inclusion and LGBTQ+-friendly topics may lead to allyship, civility, respect towards others, and promote increased sense of safety in learning environments.

Authors

• Yvonne Allsop, Eastern Michigan University
  Presenting Author

• Arianna Henning, The Ohio State University
  Non-Presenting Author

• Shantanu Tilak, Chesapeake Bay Academy
  Non-Presenting Author

• Eric M. Anderman, The Ohio State University
  Non-Presenting Author