Policy Research for Microaggression Management Among LGBTQ+ Youth in Thailand

Abstract

Background/problem: Microaggression is a form of discrimination commonly experienced by LGBTQ+ youth in the form of verbal insults or actions, either intentionally or unintentionally. These often impact the mental health and wellbeing of the victims. Objective/purpose: The objectives of this research were, 1.) to study the experiences of microaggressions among Thai LGBTQ+ youth; and 2.) and to generate and validate policy suggestions to manage microaggressions for LGBTQ+ youth in schools. Design and Methodology: This study employed policy research and was conducted in two phases. In phase one, researchers examined the experiences and effects of microaggressions on ten LGBTQ+ youths from four regions of Thailand. Phase two focused on developing policy suggestions for effectively managing microaggressions. In phase two, the researcher divided the discussion into two focus groups, each group had 8 members, with a total of 16 members. Findings: The findings indicated that the forms of microaggressions among LGBTQ+ youth could be divided into seven categories, including devaluation, privacy violation, degrading or ending a relationship, disrespect, neglect/ignorance, stereotyping, and secondary microaggressions. Furthermore, policy suggestions were developed and these were divided into four aspects related to counseling management, knowledge promotion management on sexuality and gender diversity, facility management and management of freedom of expression and activity. Conclusion and Implications: The policy suggestions from this research could serve as guidelines for achieving equality and creating safer spaces in school for LGBTQ+ youth in Thailand.