Presentation description

Homelessness is an intricate and increasing issue in the United States. Individuals experiencing unsheltered homelessness are more vulnerable to extreme environmental conditions, and homeless youth tend to be at higher risk of negative mental and physical health outcomes. Youth who identify with a marginalized identity, like the LGBTQ+ community, are more likely to experience homelessness and the associated poor health consequences. Considering that LGBTQ+ youth experiencing homelessness face compounding vulnerabilities, this study aims to inquire about how extreme environmental conditions may further complicate the impacts of their experiences. A qualitative research approach was designed to gain insight into the lived experiences of LGBTQ+ youth experiencing homelessness and how extreme environmental conditions may affect them. The research protocol is pending IRB approval, which has delayed data collection while allowing for the opportunity to conduct a deep review of the literature and carefully develop the interview protocol.