Youth unemployment in California/LA County

The Social Construction of Homelessness Among LGBTQA+2 Youth: A Defined Need Introduction Homelessness among LGBTQA+2 youth is a social problem that disproportionately affects this specific population. This essay aims to define and describe this social problem, as well as the need that is created among LGBTQA+2 youth. The research will highlight how homelessness impacts this population and the specific needs they experience. This essay will also provide examples of normative, expressed, perceived, and comparative needs based on course readings and relevant literature. The focus will be on the national level, with insights into how this need manifests differently in different populations. Social Problem: Homelessness Among LGBTQA+2 Youth The social problem of homelessness among LGBTQA+2 youth refers to the disproportionate rate at which young people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning, asexual, intersex, or two-spirit experience homelessness compared to their heterosexual and cisgender counterparts. This issue is prevalent across the United States and has gained attention due to its severe impact on the well-being and future prospects of these young individuals. Defined Need: Normative, Expressed, Perceived, and Comparative Normative Need: LGBTQA+2 youth experiencing homelessness have a normative need for safe and inclusive housing options that respect their sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression. These individuals require shelter environments that are free from discrimination, harassment, and violence (Cochran et al., 2012). Expressed Need: LGBTQA+2 youth experiencing homelessness a need for comprehensive support services tailored to their unique challenges These services should include mental health support, substance counseling, educational assistance, job training, and access to healthcare (Durso & Gates 2012). Perceived Need: LGBTQA+2 youth experiencing have a perceived need social acceptance and affirmation of their identities. They require community support that recognizes their experiences provides spaces where they can express themselves without fear rejection or stigma (Ray & Himmelstein, 2017). Comparative Need: Comparatively, LGBTQA+2 youth experiencing homelessness face greater barriers to housing stability and future success than their heterosexual and cisgender peers. They require targeted interventions that account for the intersectionality of their identities and address the root causes of their homelessness (Tyler & Melander, 2020). Impact on Specific Population: Evidence from National Reports and Studies The National LGBTQ Task Force’s report “A Long Way to Go: Homeless Youth in America” highlights that LGBTQA+2 youth make up approximately 40% of the homeless youth population in the United States. This report emphasizes the disproportionate impact of homelessness on this specific population (National LGBTQ Task Force, 2012). A study conducted by Toro et al. (2016) found that LGBTQA+2 youth experiencing homelessness are more likely to face violence, engage in survival sex work, have mental health issues, and experience substance abuse compared to their heterosexual and cisgender counterparts. The True Colors Fund’s report “Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Youth Homelessness: An Assessment of Local Agency Responses” indicates that LGBTQA+2 youth experiencing homelessness often encounter discrimination within traditional shelter systems. This report emphasizes the need for LGBTQ+-affirming housing options (True Colors Fund, 2014). Conclusion Homelessness among LGBTQA+2 youth is a significant social problem that demands attention and action. The defined needs of this population include safe and inclusive housing options, comprehensive support services, social acceptance, and targeted interventions addressing the root causes of their homelessness. National reports and studies provide evidence of the disproportionate impact of homelessness on LGBTQA+2 youth and highlight the unique challenges they face. To effectively address this social problem and meet the defined needs of this population, it is crucial to implement policies and programs that recognize the intersectionality of their identities and promote inclusivity and support throughout all levels of society. References Cochran, B. N., Stewart, A. J., Ginzler, J. A., & Cauce, A. M. (2002). Challenges faced by homeless sexual minorities: Comparison of gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender homeless adolescents with their heterosexual counterparts. American Journal of Public Health, 92(5), 773-777. Durso, L. E., & Gates, G. J. (2012). Serving our youth: Findings from a national survey of service providers working with lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender youth who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. The Williams Institute with True Colors Fund. National LGBTQ Task Force. (2012). A long way to go: Homeless youth in America. Ray, N., & Himmelstein, K. E. W. (2017). Housing discrimination against same-sex couples and transgender individuals: Evidence from a national study. Toro, P., Dworsky, A., & Fowler, P. J. (2007). Homeless youth in the United States: Recent research findings and intervention approaches. True Colors Fund. (2014). Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender youth homelessness: An assessment of local agency responses. Tyler, K. A., & Melander, L. A. (2020). Pathways into homelessness among LGBTQ+-identified youth: An application of the minority stress model.

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