Philippine E-Journals

Issues Related to Lesbian and Gay Students’ Experiences: Implications to the Promotion of Gender-Safe Spaces

John Paul Reloj

 

Abstract:

Harassment based on sexual orientation still happens in many schools. This study looked into the diverse issues and experiences of lesbians and gays as viewed by both heterosexual and lesbian and gay groups based on the data from a mixed-method study. The participants of this study were students from an external campus of a state university, involving 281 heterosexual and 40 lesbian and gay students. The participants were selected using the snowballing method. The researcher employed a structured questionnaire, focus group discussions, and observations. Using descriptive technique and thematic analysis, the researcher found that the majority of lesbians and gays who participated in this study received equal treatment from teachers and staff; and the activities of the campus promoted safe spaces for lesbian and gay students. On the other hand, other students encountered problems such as peer rejection and homophobic remarks, as well as parental rejection expressed in different ways. As a coping technique and coming-out process, they skipped school and joined groups that offered support. The findings imply that fostering gender-safe spaces should be an integral part of a student development program.