Masters Thesis

Comparative analysis of transgender youth policy in Marin County child welfare

Youth who identify as transgender are among the most vulnerable populations to come into child welfare system. Child welfare agencies may not have the policies in place to meet their needs, deliver appropriate services and most importantly, keep them safe. This comparative policy analysis aims to look specifically at the Marin County Child Welfare Agency and what policies are in place that currently protect and serve transgender youth and to develop practice recommendations to better serve this vulnerable population. Currently there is little specific policy with regard to transgender youth in foster care at the state and federal level, and no specific policy and /or protocols in Marin County Child Welfare system. Given that most local policy comes out of state mandates driven by state and/or federal policy, there is a need for a significant policy development that speaks directly to the needs of transgender youth in the child welfare system. Especially with regards to access to appropriate gender affirming medical care and mental health services. The majority of policy that did speak specifically to transgender youth in the child welfare system addressed training of service providers and caregivers with regards to the unique needs of transgender youth. Local agencies, like Marin County Child Welfare, could use this existing policy to further develop awareness campaigns, training programs, as well as adoption of more sensitive and inclusive practices. The consideration and implementation of such policies can provide important standard of care guidelines for social work practice.

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