Salience, Valence, Context, and Integration: Conceptualizing the Needs of Sexually and Gender Diverse Youth in P–12 Schools

Abstract

A framework for conceptualizing the needs of lesbian, gay male, bisexual, transgender, questioning, and other sexually and gender diverse youth is essential for guiding service delivery throughout educational settings. Review and synthesis of the literature reveals that integrating assessment of the salience, valence, and context of issues related to sexual and gender diversity facilitates affirmative practice at the individual student, group, and school-wide levels. The authors describe the components of the salience, valence, context, and integration (SVCI) model with emphasis on practical application. The theoretical and empirical support for each component of the model is also discussed.

Keywords:

• sexuality
• gender identity
• LGBTQQIA youth
• counseling models
• consultation models