Clinical implications for LGBT asylum seekers in U.S. detention centers

Abstract

LGBT asylum seekers are a unique population who have suffered violence and persecution in their countries of origin by their families, communities, and state actors due to their sexual and gender identities. LGBT individuals who flee their countries arrive in the U.S. with preexisting mental health problems brought on by prolonged physical and sexual abuse, psychological abuse, harassment, and unjustified detentions. While detained, they experience stressors that may exacerbate mental health issues. This article examines LGBT asylum seekers’ experiences in the U.S detention center and its impact on their mental health. Implication for social work research and practice are also discussed.

Keywords:

• asylum
• detention
• LGBT
• mental health
• social work