UW–Madison’s Mollie McQuillan, an assistant professor in the School of Education’s Department of Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis, has been featured recently by national media speaking on mental health challenges faced by LGBTQ+ youth and the critical role of inclusive school policies. McQuillan’s work sheds light on the pressures these students experience and the need for supportive educational environments.
In a recent article for The Conversation, “Teen girls are facing an increased risk of suicide − and stress related to sexual identity might be contributing to it,” McQuillan and co-author Joseph Cimpian examine national data showing that the percentage of high school girls identifying as LGBTQ+ increased from 15% in 2015 to 34% in 2021. This increase aligns with rising rates of suicidal thoughts and behaviors among these students, underscoring the need for more resources and support.
McQuillan further explores these issues in a Healio article, headlined “Increasing LGBQ identification may contribute to surge in suicide among high school girls.” McQuillan calls attention to the need for physicians and educators to be educated about gender and sexual orientation, noting “physicians should be aware that the parallel trends of suicidality among adolescent girls and LGBTQ+ adolescents appear to be related.” They also stress that while many LGBTQ+ youth are thriving, social pressures and discrimination remain significant challenges.
McQuillan’s expertise also informs The 74’s report, “Even in States Where You’re Supposed to ‘Say Gay,’ Fear Often Outweighs the Law,” where they discuss the challenges of implementing inclusive curriculum policies in schools. The article highlights that while some states have mandated LGBTQ-inclusive education, fear and misinformation often hinder full implementation.
Learn more about McQuillan’s research.