Clinician knowledge, training, and experience working with pansexual youth

Abstract

Pansexuality is the emotional, romantic, and/or sexual attraction towards people regardless of their biological sex, gender identity, or gender expression. Literature regarding LGTBQ + populations has more recently been included in the available research. However, specific subgroups receive much less attention. This study was conducted through an anonymous online survey of mental health professionals in the United States. A preliminary investigation into this area may highlight both the unique stressors affecting pansexual youth and improve upon the therapeutic services provided to this population. Quantitative methods consisted of univariate, bivariate, and multivariate statistics. Results displayed a positive, statistically significant relationship (p = .017) between identified gender and working with pansexual youth. Another linear regression showed that there was a positive, statistically significant relationship (p = .000) between receiving relevant/any training/education and working with pansexual youth. In a third regression, a positive, statistically significant relationship (p = .001) was found between theoretical orientation and working with pansexual youth. The results showcased the need for clinicians to be more mindful of biases, to further their training on sexual minority populations, and for overall advocacy. Clinical implications and future directions are discussed.

LAY SUMMARY

Pansexuality is the emotional, romantic, and/or sexual attraction towards others despite gender. Through an online survey of mental health professionals, we found the need for advocacy and clinicians to be more mindful of biases to further training on sexually minoritized populations. We highlight unique stressors, clinical implications, and future research.

Keywords:

• Clinician
• pansexuality
• pansexual youth
• sexuality

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Brisa Peña

Brisa Peña is a licensed psychologist and a recent graduate from Rutgers University from the Graduate School of Applied and Professional Psychology.

Eman Tadros

Eman Tadros is an Assistant Professor at Governors State University in the Division of Psychology and Counseling and received her Ph.D. from the University of Akron. She is a licensed marriage and family therapist, MBTI certified, and an AAMFT Approved Supervisor. Her research follows the trajectory of incarcerated coparenting, incorporating family therapy into incarcerated settings, and the utilization of family systems theories within these settings.