Evaluating the phobias, attitudes, and cultural competence of Master of Social Work students toward the LGBT populations.

BACKGROUND

Evidence suggests there is bias toward lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) persons by social workers; unfortunately, little research has been conducted to examine Master of Social Work (MSW) students' views toward these populations. The purpose of this study was to develop an assessment scale to evaluate the attitudes, phobias, and cultural competence of MSW students toward the LGBT populations.

METHODS

An assessment scale was developed and administered to MSW students (n = 173) at a Midwestern American university.

RESULTS

The majority of MSW students reported low phobia and a positive attitude toward the LGBT populations, yet participants reported having a low level of cultural competence in serving LGBT clients.

CONCLUSION

More education and training is needed for MSW students to effectively serve the LGBT populations.