School social work practical model based on empowerment for LGBTQ children

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to construct a school social work practice model for Japanese LGBTQ students based on an empowerment perspective. Additionally, in constructing this practice model, we used the qualitative analysis of a narrative from LGBTQ parties.

The analysis resulted in five factors within the schooling environment leading to the decline in LGBTQ students’ power (intolerance systems to LGBTQ, shocking events, unintelligible behavior of others, no whereabouts, and negative self-image), and four factors promoting empowerment were revealed (tolerance systems to LGBTQ, receptive attitude of others, existent whereabouts, and positive self-image). In addition, to approach these in multiple ways, we presented a school-social work practice model based on the empowerment process. These practices are based on human rights and social justice for children, respect for diversity, and work to support children at micro, mezzo, and macro levels.