Date of Conferral
2023
Degree
Ph.D.
School
Criminal Justice
Advisor
Dr. Gregory Koehle
Abstract
Studies have shown that lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) individuals face discrimination, harassment, and bullying by different education and criminal justice system entities because of their sexuality. Research has also indicated that when it comes to the school-to-prison pipeline (STPP), children of color are often mistreated and face harsher penalties, and research must be done to see how LGBT individuals are treated because they are considered abnormal because of their sexuality. Little is known about the perceptions and experiences of LGBT individuals when they are punished for violating minor infractions in school. This study addressed the critical race theory framework concerning oppression's educational and systemic structure. Using a qualitative phenomenological methodology allowed access to 11 LGBT individuals’ lived experiences and perceptions of the STPP in connection to the criminal justice system. Data were analyzed using Moustakas’s (1994) modified Stevick-Colaizzi-Keen method and three themes were identified: (a) sensitivity and diversity training; (b) sexuality; and (c) education rights. The implications for positive social change at the individual level could include a better understanding of LGBT with zero-tolerance policies and perceptions and experiences of students and support staff. On the community level, anticipated implications for positive social change would include educating parents about the STPP, providing community resources to those who need them, and teaching teachers how to handle and become open-minded about unique LGBT needs.
Recommended Citation
Burns, Dr. DeShaunt'e A., "Unvoiced LGBT Individuals’ Perceptions and Experiences of the School-to-Prison Pipeline" (2023). Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies. 14662.
https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/14662
