School social work with gay,lesbian and bisexual students: The case of Fairfax County

Teenagers who are coming to terms with their sexual orientation are a high-risk population in terms of substance abuse and suicide. They are often in need of counseling, especially when the school climate is hostile towards lesbian, gay and bisexual (LGB) students. School officials in Fairfax County, Virginia, are reluctant to address the issue of sexual orientation, and school social workers must abide by the policies of the school. Community resources for LGB teenagers are scarce in this affluent county. It is the author's opinion that school social workers have an obligation to be advocates for oppressed populations, including GLB youth, and should take a leading role in promoting a climate of safety, acceptance and freedom from harassment.