Professional Insights into Navigating Support for LGBTI Children in Spain

Introduction LGBTI children face situations of injustice, inequality, and targeted violence by health, education, social services, and other providers. Moreover, these situations of violence and lack of support were exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, although not many post-pandemic studies have b...

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Detalles Bibliográficos
Autores: López Saez, Miguel Ángel, Platero, Lucas, Langarita Adiego, José Antonio, Sadurní Balcells, Núria
Tipo de recurso: artículo
Estado:Versión aceptada para publicación
Fecha de publicación:2024
País:España
Institución:Varias* (Consorci de Biblioteques Universitáries de Catalunya, Centre de Serveis Científics i Acadèmics de Catalunya)
Repositorio:Recercat. Dipósit de la Recerca de Catalunya
OAI Identifier:oai:recercat.cat:10256/25151
Acceso en línea:http://hdl.handle.net/10256/25151
Access Level:acceso embargado
Palabra clave:Treballadors socials
Treball social amb els infants
Social workers
Social work with children
Infants -- Protecció, assistència, etc.
Child welfare
Minories sexuals -- Violència contra
Sexual minorities -- Violence against
Descripción
Sumario:Introduction LGBTI children face situations of injustice, inequality, and targeted violence by health, education, social services, and other providers. Moreover, these situations of violence and lack of support were exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, although not many post-pandemic studies have been done to date. This study analyzes the tools, skills, and needs of professionals in Spain in order to adequately support LGBTI children and adolescents. Method Qualitative research was conducted through semi-structured interviews with 35 professionals working with LGBTI children and adolescents. Results Our analysis found that professionals often lack accurate knowledge about gender identity, sexual characteristics, and relevant legislation for LGBTI children. Support services are deemed precarious and run by unstable or underfunded NGOs and public services. Discrimination against LGBTI children is acknowledged and exacerbated during the pandemic. The crisis negatively impacted their well-being but provided an opportunity for self-exploration. Professionals recognize competencies, training needs, and address the impact of adultism, aiming to enhance support for these children. Disparities exist between experienced professionals and those lacking exposure, revealing competency gaps. Conclusion This study sheds new light on the realities faced by LGBTI child service professionals, revealing alliance or avoidance factors in the type of support they provide. Policy Implications On a macro level, the findings offer a framework for future policies to improve professional competencies, while on a more micro level, they provide a perspective on shortcomings in daily professional performance