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.


CONCLUSIONS
More education and training is needed for MSW students to effectively serve the LGBT populations.
Logie
Carmen
C
Griffin Centre-Jane/Finch Community Support and Family Services, Toronto, Canada.
Bridge
Tana J
TJ
Bridge
Patrick D
PD
D000328:Adult; D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D001727:Bisexuality; D054521:Cultural Competency; D005260:Female; D018452:Homosexuality, Female; D018451:Homosexuality, Male; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010698:Phobic Disorders / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000523:psychology*; D011581:Psychological Tests; D012947:Social Work / Q000193:education*; D013334:Students / Q000523:psychology*