Our December 5th Science Cafe brought together researchers, scientists, teachers, practitioners, and members of the community around the topic of LGBTQ+ health, well-being, and experiences. Attendees heard from Drs. Ryan Watson and Rebecca Puhl (Human Development and Family Studies and the Rudd Center) about the preliminary findings from their 2017 LGBTQ Teen Survey — a national study that sampled more than 17,000 young people from every state in the US. The survey included over 150 items that assessed health (such as substance use, eating behaviors, self-esteem, etc), school experiences, disclosure of sexual and gender identity, and more.

After the presentation, an expert panel comprised of Dr. Paul Poteat of Boston College, Dr. Micki McElya of UConn, and Robin McHaelen of True Colors, provided a response to the survey.

Attendees participated throughout the cafe with questions and thoughts about the findings.

Special thank you to the Kavli Foundation for sponsoring our Science Cafe series.