All Youth Deserve To Feel Safe. Bullying Is A Human Rights Violation.
Questioning or accepting one’s sexual orientation can be a difficult process for teens, especially when coupled with the other stresses of adolescence. Approximately 4% of teens identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or questioning (2SLGBTQIA+). These kids are more likely to be victims of bullying, sexual harassment and physical abuse and face a greater risk of social isolation.
The bullying experienced by 2SLGBTQIA+ youth is similar to other types of bullying in adolescence, but it is particularly hurtful because these kids are keenly aware of society’s heterosexual bias.
Types of Bullying Experienced By 2SLGBTQIA+ Youth
Physical Bullying
Hitting, kicking, shoving, spitting, stealing or damaging property.
Verbal Bullying
Name-calling, mocking or hurtful teasing, humiliating or threatening someone, racist or sexist comments.
Social Bullying
Excluding others from the group, gossiping or spreading rumours, setting others up to look foolish, and damaged friendships.
Cyberharcèlement
Using email, cell phones, text messages and internet sites to threaten, harass, embarrass, socially exclude, or damage reputations and friendships.
Signs Of Victimization Among 2SLGBTQIA+ Youth
2SLGBTQIA+ youth often suffer from depression or problem behaviours. They live with the threat of discrimination and violence, and the fear that friends and family will not support them in their decision to come out. 2SLGBTQIA+ youth may suddenly withdraw from family and friends to avoid discussing their sexual orientation concerns. They may act out against parents or peers to distract questions about their sexual orientation, or in defense against real (or feared) rejection and harassment.
How Parents Can Help
There is a very high risk of drug and alcohol abuse, depression, aggressive behaviour and suicide for bullied 2SLGBTQIA+ youth. Unconditional and instant support from a parent can give a teen struggling with his or her sexual identify the strength to deal with victimization and feelings of isolation.
Strategies For Parents To Help 2SLGBTQIA+ Youth Deal With Bullying
Lead By Example
Demonstrate tolerance and acceptance of all sexualities and diversities. Do not tolerate homophobic slang for 2SLGBTQIA+. Do not support media that is making fun of 2SLGBTQIA+ issues.
Challenge Your Own Assumptions
Don’t automatically assume your child or his or her friends are heterosexual or “straight” as it could inhibit your child from seeking your support. Identify your own misconceptions and stereotypes about 2SLGBTQIA+ issues.
Encourage Youth To Report
It is the parents’ job to deal with bullying. 2SLGBTQIA+ youth are often afraid to come forward for fear of victimization or because they are not “out”. Let your child know that you want to hear about every incident of bullying and harassment.
Listen Closely, Respond Quickly
Parental support can be a powerful weapon against the negative effects of victimization. 2SLGBTQIA+ youth may deny bullying out of shame or fear so parents must be aware of the signs of bullying. Treat every incident as important and intervene on your child’s behalf.
Be Inclusive Of All Youth
Children are influenced by how their parents act. Create positive connections among 2SLGBTQIA+ youth by encouraging and reinforcing respectful and cooperative behaviour whenever you see it. Treat 2SLGBTQIA+ youth as members of your family, that you would not tolerate being hurt of embarrassed.
Reduce The Chances For Bullying
Surround your adolescent by youth who will stand up for him/her. Enrol in a school, community groups and organized activities that support 2SLGBTQIA+ issues. Work with your adolescent’s school to promote a tolerant environment.
Seek outside support
2SLGBTQIA+ youth who are bullied often have difficulties with depression and self-esteem. Counsellors can provide support through individual counselling or support groups for 2SLGBTQIA+ adolescents who are having difficulty fitting in, and who may be marginalized or targeted by peers.
Publically Support 2SLGBTQIA+ Issues
Speak up for 2SLGBTQIA+ youth heard by contacting the people responsible for policy development in schools boards and provincial and federal governments. Increase policy makers’ sensitivity to the issues faced by these youth. Support policies that recognize the existence of homophobic bullying.
