Experiences of social workers in handling sexually abused LGBTQ children

Abstract

This study aims to identify the experiences of social workers in handling sexually abused LGBTQ children. The researchers used qualitative method with seven (7) participants who worked with agencies with LGBTQ children. This study had two (2) main themes, the Social Workers’ points of view on sexually abused LGBTQ children’s social status and Social Workers’ insights on sexually abused LGBTQ children’s social status. Each theme had five subjects that deepened the understanding of the social workers’ experiences. From the data gathered, results suggest that victims/survivors of sexually abused LGBT often showed different kinds of behaviors depending on what experiences they encountered. It is a major consequence of most children suffering and being sexually abused. Immediately following a sexual assault, a victim typically experiences high levels of distress. Being assaulted can cause trauma resulting in fear, rage, guilt, anxiety, and sadness. For some people, the stigma attached to sexual assault can be embarrassing or shameful. The implication of this study to the social work profession is the commitment to enhancing the wellbeing, especially from the dark experience they had.