Australian Journal of Guidance and Counselling

Table of Contents - 01 July 2008 - Volume 18, Issue 01  

Articles

Discrimination Against Same Sex Attracted Youth: The Role of the School Counsellor

Mark Hohnkea1 and Patrick O'Briena2 c1

a1 University of Southern Queensland, Australia.

a2 University of Southern Queensland, Australia. obrienp@usq.edu.au

Abstract

Beginning with a discussion of current legislation in Australia around inclusion, this paper highlights recent research into the school experience of Same Sex Attracted Youth (SSAY), including the issues faced by students, and the negative outcomes of such experiences. The school experiences of SSAY youth is positioned within a social justice framework. The critical role that school counsellors can play in determining school culture is examined. The role of a school counsellor as part of a pastoral care team within school management is also highlighted. Factors that may influence a more supportive and inclusive school culture are discussed.

Keywords

  • inclusion;
  • discrimination;
  • social justice;
  • homophobia;
  • school psychologist;
  • school counsellors;
  • guidance officers

Correspondence:

c1 Address for Correspondence: Patrick O'Brien, Faculty of Education, University of Southern Queensland, Australia.