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Abstract
Background: Queer youth in the United States are overrepresented and simultaneously unseen in the foster care system. They experience more negative mental health outcomes than their non-queer peers, and the child welfare system does not always provide safe or affirming care for these marginalized youth. LGBTGEQIAP+ teens are placed in congregate care at high rates and face a myriad of challenges in these settings that exasperate existing mental health concerns. This poster examines the injustices of out-of-home care and the maltreatment that gender and sexual minority youth experience in the foster care system, as well as exploring factors that improve outcomes. Strategies for counselors to effectively to work with youth in this population are highlighted, including affirming care, self-compassion, and trauma-informed perspectives.
Methods: Researchers conducted a systematic literature review to assess for current outcomes, protective factors and effective treatment implementation for this population.
Results: The literature review resulted in two main foci for improving the mental outcomes of LGBTGEQIAP+ youth in the foster care system, building affirming systems of care and effective mental health treatment. Strategies for building affirming systems include connection to resources, queer affirming placements and comprehensive training for service providers. Effective mental health treatments include affirming care practices, self-compassion and trauma-informed care.
Conclusions: To improve the mental health outcomes for these youth, implementation of affirming care strategies whenever possible and systemic reform is called for. As mental health professionals, it is imperative to recognize the needs of these vulnerable adolescents and respond appropriately.
Publication Date
2025
Keywords
Group Homes, LGBTGEQIAP+ Teens, Foster Care, Mental Health, Queer, Counselors
Disciplines
Counselor Education
Faculty Advisor/Mentor
Naomi Wheeler
Is Part Of
VCU Graduate Research Posters