What are some examples of intersectional research in social work?

2 LGBTQ+ youth

Another example of intersectional research in social work is the investigation of the experiences and needs of LGBTQ+ youth, especially those who belong to multiple marginalized groups. LGBTQ+ youth face various forms of discrimination, stigma, violence, and exclusion based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression, which can affect their mental health, education, family, and peer relationships, and access to resources and support. However, LGBTQ+ youth are not a homogenous group, and their identities and experiences are also shaped by other factors, such as race, ethnicity, class, religion, disability, and immigration status. Therefore, some researchers have explored how these intersecting identities influence the challenges and strengths of LGBTQ+ youth, and how social workers can create safe and affirming spaces for them.

3 Environmental justice

A third example of intersectional research in social work is the analysis of environmental justice, which refers to the fair and equitable distribution of environmental benefits and burdens among different groups of people. Environmental justice recognizes that environmental issues, such as climate change, pollution, natural disasters, and resource depletion, are not only ecological problems, but also social problems that reflect and reproduce existing inequalities and injustices. For example, some researchers have examined how environmental racism affects the health and livelihoods of low-income communities of color, who are disproportionately exposed to environmental hazards and excluded from environmental decision-making. They have also explored how social workers can advocate for environmental justice and support community empowerment and resilience.

4 Disability rights

A fourth example of intersectional research in social work is the evaluation of disability rights, which refers to the recognition and respect of the human dignity, autonomy, and diversity of people with disabilities. Disability rights challenge the medical and charity models of disability, which view disability as a defect or a burden that needs to be fixed or helped, and instead promote the social and human rights models of disability, which view disability as a natural and valuable part of human diversity that needs to be accommodated and celebrated. However, disability rights are not only about disability, but also about how disability intersects with other aspects of identity, such as race, gender, class, sexuality, and age. Therefore, some researchers have investigated how these intersecting identities affect the experiences and needs of people with disabilities, and how social workers can support their inclusion and participation in society.

5 Migration and settlement

A fifth example of intersectional research in social work is the exploration of migration and settlement, which refers to the processes and outcomes of people moving from one place to another for various reasons, such as economic opportunities, political conflicts, family reunification, or personal aspirations. Migration and settlement can involve multiple challenges and opportunities for migrants and their host societies, such as cultural adaptation, language barriers, discrimination, integration, identity formation, and social cohesion. However, migration and settlement are not only about geography, but also about how migrants' identities and experiences are shaped by other factors, such as race, ethnicity, class, gender, religion, legal status, and generation. Therefore, some researchers have examined how these intersecting factors influence the well-being and rights of migrants and their host communities, and how social workers can facilitate their mutual understanding and collaboration.

6 Intersectional praxis

The final example of intersectional research in social work is the development of intersectional praxis, which refers to the application of intersectional theory and analysis to social work practice and policy. Intersectional praxis aims to enhance the relevance and effectiveness of social work interventions and advocacy by addressing the multiple and intersecting dimensions of oppression and privilege that affect clients and communities. It also aims to foster the reflexivity and accountability of social workers by examining their own positionality and power in relation to their clients and communities. Therefore, some researchers have proposed various models and strategies for implementing intersectional praxis in different fields and levels of social work, such as clinical practice, community development, organizational change, policy analysis, and social action.