Date of Conferral

2021

Degree

Doctor of Social Work (DSW)

School

Social Work

Advisor

Elizabeth Walker

Abstract

The social problem examined in this qualitative analysis is the limited available knowledge on the experience of ethnic minorities who are also sexual minority youth. Sexual minority youth are at increased risk of experiencing mental health disparities compared to their heterosexual peers. Due to the increased risk for psychosocial stressors such as substance use, suicidal ideation, suicidal attempts, homelessness, and trauma, clinicians should be aware of the intersectionality of identifying as a sexual minority youth who is also an ethnic minority. The purpose of this qualitative study was to understand the experiences of African American sexual minority female youth ages 18 to 24 who have participated in community-based counseling in central Florida. Crenshaw’s intersectionality theory was the theoretical framework. Data collection involved individual interviews facilitated online and via telephone. The sample consisted of five African American sexual minority women between the ages of 18 and 24 who had engaged in community-based counseling. Using thematic analysis, three themes were identified: (a) the need to feel accepted, (b) the importance of normalizing the experience of sexual minority youth of color, and (c) counseling should be accessible and affordable for everyone. The findings from this study can be used to understand the experience of sexual minority women of color and prompt social workers to become culturally competent as it relates to work with this population. Furthermore, this understanding could result in positive social change by prompting further research on sexual minorities of color and potentially developing programs designed to meet their needs.

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