6200wk 9 discussion
RESPONSE 1
Collapse Subdiscussion Jasmine Molder
TuesdayApr 25 at 7:43pm
Disclosure of sexual identity or gender role can have huge impacts on an adolescent, especially when disclosing to family. If the adolescent receives support and acceptance from their family, it can boost their self-esteem, increase their sense of belonging, and promote healthy development (Mills-Koonce, Rehder, & McCurdy, 2018, pg 641). However, if the adolescent experiences rejection or confusion, it can lead to depression, anxiety, social isolation, and even suicidal ideation (Mills-Koonce, Rehder, & McCurdy, 2018, pg 640). In some cases, ongoing parental rejection may even cause the adolescent to become homeless (Mills-Koonce, Rehder, & McCurdy, 2018, pg 640).
As a social worker it is important to provide information and education to the adolescent and their family about sexual orientation and gender identity, helping them understand the complexities the two (Brandon-Friedman, 2019, pg 362). In addition, it is vital to create a safe and supportive environment for the adolescent by providing a non-judgmental and accepting space where they can explore their identity without fear of rejection or discrimination (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2017). Adolescents can also benefit from developing positive social skills and relationships by connecting them with supportive peers and allies who can offer emotional support and guidance (Mills-Koonce, Rehder, & McCurdy, 2018, pg 643).
References
Brandon-Friedman, R. A. (2019). Youth sexual development: A primer for social workersLinks to an external site.Links to an external site. . Social Work, 64(4), 356–364. https://doi.org/10.1093/sw/swz027Links to an external site.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2017, June 21). Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender health: LGBT youth Links to an external site.Links to an external site. . https://www.cdc.gov/lgbthealth/youth.htm
Mills-Koonce, W. R., Rehder, P. D., & McCurdy, A. L. (2018). The significance of parenting and parent-child relationships for sexual and gender minority adolescentsLinks to an external site.Links to an external site. . Journal of Research on Adolescence, 28(3), 637–649. https://doi.org/10.1111/jora.12404
Response 2
Response 2
WednesdayApr 26 at 2:55pm
Hello,
Possible reactions to adolescents questioning their sexual identity or gender role can have positive and negative impacts. Adolescents who identify outside of the heterosexual norm may feel it is hard to be accepted by others. If an adolescent feels rejected, this can have several challenges, such as; low-self-esteem, self-isolation, signs and symptoms of depression, and anxiety. The negative can lead to drug or alcohol abuse, risky behaviors, and suicidal ideation. Feedback to adolescents questioning sexuality is essential for sexual/gender worth and esteem (American Psychological Association, 2008).
In the text Brandon-Friedman, (2019) states, Hindering essential aspects of youths' lives can affect many other areas of their development and overall well-being. Suppose they are instead taught to explore these aspects of themselves positively and to the same degree as they do in areas such as hobbies and other forms of peer relationships. In that case, they can fully integrate their sexuality into their sense of self better, which research suggests will benefit all areas of their lives. Assisting in this process is suitable for the youths with whom a social worker may engage and for the youths (Brandon-Friedman, 2019).
Social workers can play many roles regarding the best outcomes for these adolescents. On the micro level, social workers can assist with both intrapsychic and interpersonal sexual identity development (Brandon-Friedman, 2019). Adolescents need assistance with understanding the interplay of their sexual beliefs, desires, and actions. As it relates to the adolescent's family, social workers can assist family members to understand and come to terms with how the sexual identities or interactions of family members affect them. Brandon-Friedman, (2019) the article states that mezzo-level interventions should focus on changing attitudes toward groups of individuals whose sexual actions differ from the majority. At the macro level, social workers should be in tune with youth sexual development to better advocate for the clients and other youth (Brandon-Friedman, 2019). Social workers should provide support, be proactive, encourage respect for all students, assist the adolescent with identifying a safe space, ensure the youth have appropriate resources and services, and facilitate access to community-based providers (Centers for Disease Control, 2017).
References:
American Psychological Association. (2008). Answers to your questions: To better understand sexual orientation and homosexuality. Washington, DC: Author. [Retrieved from www.apa.org/topics/sorientation.pdfLinks to an external site. .]
Brandon-Friedman, R. A. (2019). Youth sexual development: A primer for social workersLinks to an external site.Links to an external site. Social Work, 64(4), 356–364. https://doi.org/10.1093/sw/swz027Links to an external site.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2017, June 21). Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender health: LGBT youthLinks to an external site.Links to an external site. . https://www.cdc.gov/lgbthealth/youth.htmLinks to an external site.