Challenges Facing LGBTQ+ Youth in Foster Care and Their Need for Support

Across the United States, an estimated 343,000 children and teens are in foster care. Among them, approximately 30% identify as LGBTQ+, which is higher than the percentage of LGBTQ+ youth in the general population (~7-9%). This overrepresentation in the foster care population means they encounter higher risks than non-LGBTQ+ foster youth for homelessness, mental health issues, and other unmet needs. 

While many LGBTQ+ youth enter foster care for the same reasons as their non-LGBTQ+ peers (such as neglect or abuse) a substantial number are placed in care due to rejection related specifically to their gender identity or sexual orientation. 

Mental Health Challenges and Increased Risk of Suicide

Nearly 44% of LGBTQ+ foster youth say they were removed, ran away, or were forced out of their home because of their identity. 

LGBTQ+ youth already face elevated risks for mental health issues, and these risks are even higher among those who have experienced foster care. In one national survey, 39% of LGBTQ+ youth reported considering suicide in 2024. Those with foster care experience were found to be two to four times more likely to attempt suicide compared to those without.

Many of these struggles are due to discrimination, harassment, and victimization from the caregivers around them. This leads to multiple placements, among other challenges, which is a known cause of instability for foster youth. 

Higher Vulnerability Among Transgender and Nonbinary Youth

Transgender and nonbinary youth in foster care report even higher rates of hardship. About 40% of trans and nonbinary foster youth say they were kicked out, abandoned, or ran away due to mistreatment based on their gender identity. In contrast, about 17% of cisgender LGBQ+ youth in foster care report the same experience.

In addition, LGBTQ+ youth of color are more likely to have been in foster care. Native/Indigenous, Black, Latinx, and multiracial LGBTQ+ youth face compounded challenges due to intersecting identities.

Links to Juvenile Justice Involvement

The risk factors for LGBTQ+ youth in foster care often extend into the juvenile justice system. Although LGBTQ+ youth make up an estimated 5–7% of the general youth population, they account for 13–15% of youth in juvenile detention. Histories of trauma, abuse, and housing instability often contribute to this pathway.

Compared to heterosexual and cisgender peers, LGBTQ+ youth in the justice system are twice as likely to have experienced foster care placement, homelessness, and childhood abuse.

Affirming Environments Make a Difference

Research shows that LGBTQ+-affirming schools and environments can serve as a protective factor. Among LGBTQ+ youth with a history in the system, those who are in affirming classroom environments were more than less likely to report a suicide attempt in the past year. While supportive settings benefit all LGBTQ+ youth, they appear to have an even stronger impact on those with foster care involvement.

What Can Be Done

Supporting LGBTQ+ youth in foster care requires action on multiple levels, from individual caregivers to policy reform. These steps can help create more affirming environments that reduce risk and support resilience:

1. • Prioritize affirming placements: LGTBQ+ youth should be placed with caregivers who accept their identities. This works hand in hand with proper training.
   • Inclusive training for caseworkers and caregivers: Include training that focuses on understanding and using correct terminology, addressing bias, preventing discrimination, and supporting identity development for children.
   • Providing access to LGBTQ+ affirming care and services: Accessible mental health, education, and healthcare providers that are trained to support LGBTQ+ populations are important, especially transgender and nonbinary youth.
   • Youth-led advocacy: LGBTQ+ youth with experience in the system should be included in the creation and implementation of policies and programs. 
   • Promoting permanency and long-term support: The goal of foster care is reunification, and LGBTQ+ youth are less likely to achieve that goal. Efforts should be made to help them build lasting, supportive relationships and to have access to housing and other services that aid them as they transition into adulthood. 

In Conclusion

LBGTQ+ youth in foster care face many challenges, but with supportive environments, care, and policy support, those challenges can be overcome. By recognizing their unique needs and listening to LGBTQ+ voices, we can create a foster care system that protects and uplifts every child, regardless of gender or sexual identity.