Pride Beyond Parades: LGBTQIA+ Youth and Suicide
OBJECTIVES
At the conclusion of this workshop, you will:
- Increase your knowledge of sexual orientation, gender identity, & LGBTQIA+ youth development;
- Explore psychosocial stressors of LGBTQIA+ youth and suicidal indicators;
- Identify ways to help and support LGBTQIA+ youth who are struggling with suicidal thoughts or behaviors.
WORKSHOP DESCRIPTION
Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, & Asexual (LGBTQIA+) Pride is more than just parades; it is about creating a caring and loving community for our most vulnerable youth. LGBTQIA+ youth are perhaps one of the most vulnerable populations in the United States today. Aside from the typical developmental hurdles of adolescence, LGBTQIA+ youth often face such psychosocial challenges as isolation, stigma, familial and societal rejection as well as physical, emotional, and sexual violence. Fueled by various forms of oppression, LGBTQIA+ youth often feel there is nowhere to turn for support or guidance. In a culture where difference often breeds discrimination, suicide is sometimes seen as a viable option for these youths. This workshop will explore the varying societal levels of response to LGBTQIA+ youth and the responsibility that our Haddon Township community must play to support this population.
BIOGRAPHY
Brent A. Satterly, PhD, LCSW is a Full Professor at Widener University’s Center for Social Work Education. With over 25 years clinical and educational experience, his areas of expertise include human sexuality and social work pedagogies, clinical work with LGBTQIA+ populations, professional identity management, HIV/AIDS, family therapy, and the use of Harry Potter and pop culture in teaching social justice. He is well published, including his recent 2020 co-authored textbook, Sexuality Concepts for Social Workers (2nd ed.). He is a member of good standing in the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) and the Pennsylvania Association of Undergraduate Social Work Education (PAUSWE).
