Intersectionality is a term used to describe the different ways a person understands themself; is perceived by others; and is treated in society due to their identity.
The Prism of Identity and Experience shows the factors that can shape how a person understands their own experience of the world.
The LGBTIQ+ acronym includes the intersections of sexuality, gender, and sex characteristics. Some people may have one or all of these intersections as parts of their experience of the world. Other intersections may include being a person with a disability and/or having a culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) background.
Understanding the intersectionality and context of an LBGTIQ+ young person’s identity is important to:
- provide effective mental healthcare and support
- demonstrate respect for the whole person
- understand the interconnection of a young person's identity and experiences, and potential discrimination or challenges. Young people may present only aspect of their experience to get support from services that would otherwise deem their experience too complex.
- understand the intersecting ways that stigma and discrimination may impact a young person’s mental health.
Aboriginality
Understand the unique experiences of culture, identity and community for Aboriginal people who identify as LGBTIQ+.
Intersex variations
Learn about the rights and experiences of people with innate variations of sex characteristics, including those who identify as LGBTQ+.
Cultural and linguistic diversity
Provide support for the issues faced by LGBTIQ+ young people who are also from culturally and lingustically diverse backgrounds.
Disability
Discover the additional challenges faced by LGBTIQ+ young people who live with a physical or intellectual disability.