Foster family acceptance: Understanding the role of foster family acceptance in the lives of LGBTQ youth

• Foster family levels of acceptance play a critical role in the experiences of LGBTQ youth navigating the foster care system.
• Accepting foster families avoid double standards around friendships, romantic relationships, and extracurricular activities.
• Foster families can have a profound impact on a youth’s sense of permanence and safety in care.

LGBTQ youth in the child welfare system have historically received very little attention. The limited research available suggests that they encounter a number of disparities and double standards when compared to straight youth. The current study examines the role that foster family acceptance plays in the lives of LGBTQ youth as they navigate the child welfare system. The experiences of LGBTQ foster care alumni who had accepting foster family experiences are compared to those who had rejecting experiences. Findings suggest that foster family acceptance plays a pivotal role in creating an affirming and inclusive environment for LGBTQ youth. Similarly, findings provide further evidence for the need to educate, train, and recruit affirming and accepting foster families.