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Session Title: Evaluation of Efforts to Create Safer Environments for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) Youth
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Multipaper Session 517 to be held in TRAVIS C on Friday, Nov 12, 9:15 AM to 10:45 AM
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Sponsored by the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender Issues TIG
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| Chair(s): |
| Joseph Kosciw,
Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network, jkosciw@glsen.org
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An Evaluation of a National Leadership Development Program for LGBT Youth and Their Allies
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| Presenter(s):
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| Elizabeth Diaz, Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network, ediaz@glsen.org
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| Abstract:
This presentation examines the effects of a leadership development program for LGBT youth and their non-LGBT allies. The year-long program was designed to equip secondary students to act as leaders in their communities with regard to challenging heterosexism, homophobia and transphobia. The evaluation explores whether the program supported sociopolitical development, civic engagement and socio-emotional well-being over time. The research design was quasi-experimental, utilizing pre- and post-program surveys, which were administered to program participants and a comparison group. Program participation was related to increases in civic engagement and community organizing over time, suggesting that the program provided opportunities and skills to engage in these activities. Program participation was not directly related to socio-emotional well-being, although the increase in community organizing was related to lower psychological distress and greater coping skills. In responses to open-ended items, participants reported increased leadership skill development, specifically in the areas of collaboration, project management, and communication.
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