SW 380A - SW Practice w LGBTQ Population

Credits: 4

This course examines social work practice with people who identify as LGBTQ+, with a primary focus on practice in the United States. We will explore basic terminology and social constructions of sex, sexual orientation, gender, and gender expression. Course readings and class discussions will focus on the experiences of various sexual and gender minority communities, with particular attention paid to the intersecting identities and socio-political context of race, ethnicity, class, and ability. We will examine how the following topics impact the LGBTQ+ community: the history and current state of community-based activism; family/ community acceptance and rejection(including the coming out process); disparities in education and wealth; substance use and use disorders; mental health, health and well-being; child welfare and juvenile justice; and aging. We will examine the state of social work practice for each of the above areas. Prerequisite: Matriculation into the BSW Major Offered: Spring.