Gay–Straight Alliances Are Associated With Student Health: A Multischool Comparison of <scp>LGBTQ</scp> and Heterosexual Youth

Abstract

Few studies have examined school‐based factors associated with variability in the victimization and health of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning ( LGBTQ ) youth. Among 15,965 students in 45 W isconsin schools, we identified differences based on G ay– S traight A lliance ( GSA ) presence. Youth in schools with GSA s reported less truancy, smoking, drinking, suicide attempts, and sex with casual partners than those in schools without GSA s, with this difference being more sizable for LGBTQ than heterosexual youth. GSA ‐based differences were greatest for sexual minority girls on reported sex while using drugs. GSA effects were nonsignificant for general or homophobic victimization, grades, and school belonging. Findings suggest that GSA s could contribute to attenuating a range of health risks, particularly for LGBTQ youth.