When Words Inflict Harm: Documenting Sexuality and Gender Identity Microaggressions in Schools for LGBTQQ Youth

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer and questioning students are commonly thought of as vulnerable to bullying and harassment in US schools, although there is hope that school climates are improving for LGBTQQ youth with the implementation of anti-bullying legislation and policies in almost every state. Although these policies address most overt and physical forms of bullying, other insults, assaults and invalidations may continue undetected. These sexual orientation and gender identity microaggressions, identified in counseling literature, can help teacher educators, teachers and school administrators better understand the psychological, academic and health effects of negative stereotypes and perceptions of LGBTQQ youth that are unaddressed in schools. This paper analyzes prevalent discourses about LGBTQQ youth in schools for evidence of the microaggressions identified in the literature. Microaggressions are discussed and the effects of harassment and stereotyping on school belongingness are examined.