Gender nonconformity may serve as a target of prejudice and bullying because it constitutes a threat to established gender norms. The study aimed to examine the school experience of gender-nonconforming youth in China and investigate whether a structured and supportive school climate would protect them from school victimization. The study included a national sample of 3,020 youth in China. They completed a questionnaire on gender expression, school victimization, mental health, and school climate. The results indicated that 38.5% of the gender-nonconforming youth experienced school victimization and 41.1% showed moderate-to-severe depression symptoms. Gender nonconformity was positively related to school victimization, which was related to higher levels of school avoidance and depression symptoms. Among youth who perceived their school climate as supportive, their gender nonconformity was not significantly related to school victimization. The findings highlight that the mental health conditions of gender-nonconforming youth are worthy of attention. Gender-nonconforming youth in China are at greater risk of school victimization, which may significantly impact their school engagement and mental health. Gender-affirming psychological support is urgently needed for this vulnerable population in Chinese educational settings. Fostering a supportive school climate may alleviate the victimization perpetuation arising from intolerance of gender nonconformity in schools.

Authors:
Randolph Chun Ho Chan, The Education University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong

About the Presenter(s)
Dr Randolph C. H. Chan is a University Associate Professor/Senior Lecturer at The Chinese University of Hong Kong in Hong Kong

See this presentation on the full schedule – Wednesday Schedule

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