Exploring narratives of young LGBTQ+ people in physical health services

Abstract

Section A: This section is a systematic literature review and thematic synthesis of qualitative research exploring the perceptions of healthcare staff towards lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer or questioning (LGBTQ+) individuals. The review included nine studies, all of which had been published in the past nine years. The review generated four analytical themes: A willingness and desire to provide quality care; A lack of knowledge and experience; Working in heteronormative spaces;Whose responsibility is it? Clinical and research implications are discussed.
Section B: This section employs a narrative analysis approach to consider the experiences of young LGBTQ+ people who have a physical health condition and their relationships with their identity. Eight participants were interviewed. Their narratives indicated that healthcare staff held an important role in their lives, and were overall doing a good job in supporting them. The importance of role models and communities that can uphold and celebrate identity for these young people were present in all narratives, and the study discusses how healthcare staff can step into these roles to
further boost the development of positive identity in young LGBTQ+ people. Clinical and research implications, as well as study limitations are then considered.
Section C: Includes all appendices and supporting material.

Date of Award	2023
Original language	English