KNOWLEDGE AND ATTITUDES OF UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS TOWARDS SEXUAL AND GENDER DIVERSITY IN THE FIELD OF HELPING PROFESSIONS

Abstract

International research has emphasized the work of professionals in the field of helping professions in terms of attention to DASGE (sexual and gender diversity). Although showing a low level of homophobia and transphobia, the lack of initial and continuous training can affect the possession of skills and resources to intervene adequately. Furthermore, this deficit seems to condition the display of positive attitudes towards this collective, affecting their professional performance. From the need to advance in this type of studies in the national context, this research aims to analyse the attitudes and knowledge of students in the field of social intervention (social work and social education) towards the DASGE belonging to the University of Huelva. An ex-post study was carried out with a sample of 307 students, with the application of a self-reporting instrument. The results reveal a deficit in specific and legislative training in relation to the DASGE. They also show that the higher or lower level of knowledge, as well as homonegativity and transphobia, are related to the correlation of certain variables (academic year, university degree, sexual orientation, contact with LGBT people, religious feeling, political inclination, and cause of homosexuality). Finally, the need to revise the study programs of both degrees is concluded, adapting the contents for specific training of students in DASGE. The findings point to the importance of university counselling services taking LGBT diversity into account in their awareness-raising and training interventions.