Publication

Evaluation of a brief foster parent/ case worker training to support relationship building skills and acceptance of LGBTQ+ youth in care.

Publication Year: 2023

Authors: Salazar, Amy M., Barkan, Susan E., Rankin, Leah F., Woo, Cossette B., Rozekova, Ivana, Fowler, Nathan E., Haggerty, Kevin P., Shogren, Dae, & Salzer, Amber

Publication Title: Journal of Public Child Welfare

Volume: 27

Issue Number: 1

Page(s): 213-237

Link to Publication: View publication

Abstract: LGTBQ+ youth in foster care need unique support and acceptance; however, few case workers and caregivers receive specialized training. To address this, the Connecting: Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Expression (SOGIE) eLearning was developed. This evaluation assesses whether attitudes and behavioral intentions regarding LGBTQ+ youth improved as a result of this training. Caregivers and child welfare professionals showed growth in many areas, including how important they felt it was to learn strategies and skills to support LGBTQ+ youth, as well as their confidence to care for LGBTQ+ youth. The Connecting: SOGIE eLearning is a promising tool for child welfare systems.