Saving Sexuality From Stigma: A Perception Study On LGBT Bullying In Korean International Schools

Abstract

Teens who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender (LGBT) often experience bullying and are at increased risk of suffering from mental health issues. Research, especially in the West, has shown that such bullying can decline if schools actively implement programs that raise awareness and educate students to promote a safer and more tolerant environment. However, in South Korea, schools currently either lack such programs or have ineffective programs. On the other hand, International Schools in Korea (ISK), which enroll more diverse students and teach western curricula, seem more liberal about LGBT issues, and tolerant towards such individuals. However, the fact that many ISK are affiliated with Christianity, and that Christian tenets are not entirely amicable towards LGBT individuals, raises an intriguing question: Despite Christian beliefs about LGBT individuals and the conservative attitude of Korea, have ISK actually created a culture that reflect the schools’ stated policies of tolerance and inclusivity, or is there a disparity of opinions between LGBT students and staff that needs to be addressed? In order to find an answer, I conducted anonymous surveys and interviews with both students and staff from six different ISK. The results show that the opinions of the LGBT students differ in both experience and perception from those of the staff and non-LGBT students, but are similar to those of non–LGBT students. Ultimately, by analyzing data from my study, I determined perceptions on LGBT in ISK and proposed necessary plans of action to increase support of LGBT in these communities.