Promoting Affirming School Athletics for LGBTQ Youth Through Professional Development. Issue 1 (2nd January 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Greenspan, Scott B.; Whitcomb, Sara; Griffith, Catherine
• Is Part Of: Journal of educational and psychological consultation. Volume 29:Issue 1(2019)
• Page Start: 68
• Page End: 88
• Publication Date: 2019-01-02
• Subjects: Educational consultants -- Periodicals; School psychology -- Periodicals; Psychological consultation -- Periodicals; 370.15
• DOI: 10.1080/10474412.2018.1482217
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1047-4412

Abstract

ABSTRACT: While physical activity provides ample social-emotional, behavioral, and academic benefits, many lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) youth experience bullying, discomfort, and feelings of exclusion in school athletic settings. Authors conceptualize a professional development model entitled School Athletics for Everyone (SAFE). Within this model, physical education teachers are supported in gaining a more comprehensive understanding about the struggles experienced by LGBTQ youth in athletic settings and, subsequently, the ways in which they can be supported through data-based consultative and professional development efforts to promote more affirming and inclusive practices. The role of the school mental health professional is crucial in facilitating content delivery and consultation. Authors review the empirical foundations for this model, provide a case example, and disseminate relevant resources for practitioners. Future directions for research are also discussed.