LGBTQ+ Considerations
What is a microaggression?
A subtle, often unintentional, discriminatory comment or action that are often towards a specific identity/ community.
Why is it important to avoid stigmatizing language when discussing substance use disorders (SUD)?
Stigmatizing language can reinforce shame and discourage people from seeking support.
When should an advocate refer a client to a therapist or counselor?
When a client expresses ongoing emotional distress, trauma symptoms, or requests mental health support.
What is shared decision-making in advocacy work?
A collaborative process where the advocate and survivor explore options and make informed decisions together.
What is the difference between IPV and DV?
IPV (Intimate Partner Violence) involves harm within romantic or intimate relationships, while DV (Domestic Violence) may also include familial abuse.
How can an advocate support a survivor who is hesitant to report due to fear of discrimination?
Validate their concerns, provide empowerment through informed choices, and offer legal and community resources.
What is person-first language, and provide an example.
Person-first language emphasizes the individual before their diagnosis/ condition, e.g., "person with HIV" instead of "HIV-positive person."
What is setting boundaries?
Setting clear expectations and managing the client- advocate relationship to be sustainable and productive for both parties.
How can reflective listening help in building trust?
By mirroring the survivor’s words and feelings, demonstrating empathy and understanding.
What are common signs of stalking behavior?
Repeated unwanted contact, monitoring, sending threats, or showing up uninvited.
What is one example of intersectionality impacting an LGBTQ+ survivor's experience?
A trans woman of color may face compounded discrimination and barriers when accessing resources.
How do you address HIV Stigma?
Validate their concerns, provide factual information, and connect them to stigma-free resources.
A client shares that they are having suicidal thoughts. What questions can we ask to determine if they are actively suicidal?
We can ask: "Are you thinking about suicide?", "Do you have a specific plan or means?"
What are affirmations, and why are they important?
Affirmations are positive statements that recognize a client’s strengths and resilience, supporting empowerment and self-efficacy.
What role do power and control play in abusive relationships?
Abusers use coercion, isolation, threats, and manipulation to maintain control over their partners.
What is the importance of using correct pronouns when working with queer survivors? And what do you do when you use the wrong pronouns?
It affirms the survivor’s identity, builds trust, and shows respect.
Briefly apologize and continue.
How can rape culture contribute to victim-blaming?
It normalizes sexual violence, shifts blame onto survivors, and minimizes perpetrators’ accountability.
What should one do if they missed a CAN class?
Wait for next cycle to complete the missing class and earn their certificate.
What are open ended questions and why are they helpful?
Open ended questions are questions that cannot be answered with simple/ one word answers. By mirroring the survivor’s words and feelings, demonstrating empathy and understanding. Through open-ended questioning you can learn about your client’s experiences, thoughts, feelings, beliefs, and hopes for the future.
How can advocates respond if a client is unsure about accessing medical care after an assault?
Provide information about forensic exams, explain options without pressure, and offer support throughout the decision-making process.
Name two challenges queer survivors may face when reporting crimes.
Fear of discrimination, misgendering, lack of culturally responsive services, or fear of being outed.
Why is understanding the stigma around mental health important in victim advocacy?
It allows advocates to create non-judgmental support, encourage access to care, and validate survivors’ experiences.
What is the role of a victim advocate?
To provide emotional support, resources, and guidance to survivors, while respecting their autonomy and choices.
Why is it important to validate a survivor’s feelings?
It fosters trust, affirms their experience, and reduces feelings of isolation.
How should an advocate respond if a client chooses not to report their assault?
Respect their decision, provide support, and offer resources without judgment.