An Intersectional Feminist Perspective on LGBTQ Youth in Foster Care: Implications for Service Providers

Abstract

LGBTQ children are overrepresented in the foster care system in the United States. These children are also at higher risk for homelessness and suicide. While there are some legal protections for this population, more research and advocacy are needed to help these young people thrive despite their situations. An intersectional feminist perspective on advocacy and queer theory could change the landscape of political activism and training for child welfare professionals. In this article, three activist approaches to training are discussed as ways to revolutionize advocacy and treatment of LGBTQ youth in child welfare. The authors propose 1) providing intersectional and feminist principles in child welfare diversity training modules, 2) including the exploration of self-identity in these trainings, and 3) developing a better understanding of how heteronormative bias and perceptions of deviance can be perpetuated.

Challenges and Support for LGBTQ+ At-Risk Youth

“…There are some parents that voluntarily give up their children to be placed into foster care, or even kick them out (making them homeless) because they cannot handle their child's behaviours. These rejected and ejected children are more often LGBTQ+ than not (Nouriel & Harris, 2018).…”

“…A look at the American foster care system showed that LGBTQ+ youth are overrepresented there. Research in Los Angeles, California finds that 19% of children in child welfare could identify as LGBTQ+ (Nouriel & Harris, 2018). If these children are becoming such a big part of the system, the logical progression should be to put policies in place to help them.…”