Considering "Spheres of Influence" in the Care of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual Transgender, and Queer-Identified Youth

Child Adolesc Psychiatr Clin N Am. 2022 Oct;31(4):649-664. doi: 10.1016/j.chc.2022.05.008.

Abstract

Working with lesbian, gay, bisexual transgender, and queer-identified (LGBTQ) youth can present a uniquely challenging opportunity for clinicians given the rapidly changing landscapes of gender and sexuality and deficits in training and education. The goal of this article is to provide the most up-to-date trends and advances in the mental health care of LGBTQ youth to empower clinicians in delivering evidence-based care. We adapt the "Spheres of Influence" model to challenge the clinician to think more globally about our interventions. When LGBTQ youth are supported at every sphere, we give them the best chance to survive and thrive into adulthood.

Keywords: LGBTQ; Mental health; Pediatrics; Spheres of influence; Transgender.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Sexual Behavior
  • Sexual and Gender Minorities*
  • Sexuality
  • Transgender Persons* / psychology