Problem: Reflections and Implications.
A strength of this study is a large sample, with diversity in ethnicity. However, all participants were reported to live in one state, which may have skewed data because of an environment less supportive of pro-LGBTQ policies when compared to other states. An additional weakness was a much larger sample of females than males, which might have made it difficult to find statistically significant differences between groups. The cross-sectional design also prevents making inferences about cause, which weakens implications regarding the cause of school absences. Nonetheless, these findings emphasize the need for structural changes in the school system to increase safety, reduce bullying, and shift the culture away from anti-LGBTQ sentiments. If students spend a great deal of time at school while feeling unsafe and traumatized, it will ultimately lead to missed school. Unsafe environments may also help explain the high percentage of sexual minority youth who report depressed mood and thoughts of suicide. Additionally, pervasive trauma and mood disturbance will ultimately lead to poor health outcomes among this population. Need Assignment Help?