Gender and Sexual Minority Student Advocacy Post COVID-19 Social Distancing and Stay-at-Home Orders: A Phenomenological Study

The COVID-19 pandemic led to lockdown throughout the world beginning in March 2020. Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning (LGBTQ+) students we removed from school and other activities out of the home, spending more time at home with family who may or may not accept them. When in school, school counselors act as advocates for all students and may provide support for these students. Despite this advocacy, LGBTQ+ students face significantly more difficulties during adolescence than their non-LGBTQ+ peers, often lacking a sense of belonging in school. Through a minority stress and ecological theory lens, we can see the impact school has on the increased stressors in the lives of LGBTQ+ youth. This phenomenological research study delves into the advocacy efforts of school counselors when returning to school post stay-at-home orders. Research considers the differences in advocacy approaches for LGBTQ+ and non-LGBTQ+ students and the changes in advocacy efforts due to COVID-19 restrictions. Interviews with practicing professional school counselors shed light on their experience. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]