Abstract
Previous research shows that lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning, and other (LGBTQ+) students can experience substantial emotional- and health-related issues at school, but research into LGBTQ+ students' experiences of school nursing is limited. This qualitative study describes the experiences of Finnish LGBTQ+ students engaging with junior high school nurses. Data were collected from 35 LGBTQ+ students using an online survey tool comprising of a set of open-ended questions. Two interconnecting themes were identified following thematic analysis: (1) junior high school nurse engagement: a mixed or unsatisfactory experience and (2) LGBTQ+ students' needs for diversity-affirming junior high school nursing. Findings show that LGBQT+ students felt junior high school nurse engagement was often unsupportive with issues around their sexuality and gender identity. LGBTQ+ students expressed the need for diversity-affirming information and support in school settings. Further research from school nurses' perspective is needed to increase understanding of this topic.
Highlights
Adolescence can be a challenging time for students who identify as LGBTQþ; many of them experience stress, discrimination, stigmatization, or bullying because of their sexual orientation or gender identity (Huebner et al, 2015; Kosciw et al, 2017; Meyer, 2003)
She always talked like my gender identity would match with the sex identity would match with the sex that I was assigned at birth based on that I was assigned at birth based on
Our study demonstrated that if LGBTQþ students were unsure about junior high school nurses’ attitudes toward their sexual orientation or gender identity, they did not disclose it, or health issues related to these identities
Summary
Adolescence can be a challenging time for students who identify as LGBTQþ; many of them experience stress, discrimination, stigmatization, or bullying because of their sexual orientation or gender identity (Huebner et al, 2015; Kosciw et al, 2017; Meyer, 2003). These stressors cause LGBTQþ students more depression, anxiety, and suicidal behavior than their peers (Russell & Fish, 2016). There is quite a potential for health-related issues within this group of students (Boskey, 2014)
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