LGBTQ+ bullying is repeated harm toward a student because of their identity, how they express themselves, or who they are perceived to be. It can include hurtful comments, slurs, rumors, exclusion, or jokes that target a student’s identity. Every student deserves to feel safe and respected at school, whatever their identity or family background.
What LGBTQ+ Bullying Looks Like in School
In school, this behavior may appear as repeated comments about how a student dresses, speaks, or acts, as rumors about a student’s identity, or as students who are left out of groups, teams, or social events. It can also appear in notes, graffiti, or online comments. Teachers should not assume a student will report this harm, since a student may worry about privacy, family reactions, or being singled out further.
Why Privacy and Respect Matter Here
A student’s identity is personal information. Adults should never share a student’s identity with classmates, other families, or staff who do not need to know, and should never pressure a student to explain or disclose who they are. The adult response should focus on stopping the behavior, protecting privacy, and making school a place where every student can learn. Follow your school and district policy for reporting, and let the student guide what support feels safe.
Signs to Watch For
Signs include a student who avoids certain classes, hallways, or activities, who becomes quiet when identity-based jokes occur, or who stops joining groups they once enjoyed. They may ask to change seats, avoid school events, or seem anxious before the school day. Teachers may hear repeated slurs or identity-based jokes, or notice a student who is often the target of rumors. Parents may hear their child repeat hurtful comments or say they feel different or unwelcome at school.
What a Student Can Do
A student can use a short response such as “Please do not say that about me,” then move toward a trusted adult or a safe peer group. They do not need to explain their identity to classmates to deserve respect. Tell a trusted adult what happened, where it happened, and whether it has happened before. If the behavior continues, keep telling an adult. Classmates who witness this behavior can help by refusing to laugh, by supporting the targeted student privately, and by telling an adult.
How Teachers Can Help
Teachers can set a clear expectation that every identity is respected, stop slurs and identity-based jokes immediately, and avoid asking students to explain their identity to the class. Use the name and words a student asks you to use, keep private information private, and check in privately about what support the student wants. Follow your school and district policy, and review seating, grouping, and supervision where the behavior occurs.
How Parents Can Help
Parents can listen without judgment, affirm their child, and help the child practice a short response for repeated comments. Contact the school through its usual route, share the facts, and ask how staff will respond while protecting your child’s privacy. If your child is unsure about telling, explain that telling an adult is a safety step, and that the school has a responsibility to keep every student respected and safe.
Try a Classroom Exercise
Use the Exercise Finder for empathy, respect, and inclusion activities, and follow the Start Here plan. Lessons that teach respectful language and belonging help every student feel part of the school community.
Related Types of Bullying
Identity-based harm often overlaps with other forms. See Racial and Cultural Bullying and Disability-Related Bullying, and return to the Types of Bullying hub for the full list.
Frequently Asked Questions About LGBTQ+ Bullying
Should a teacher share a student’s identity with other staff?
Only when needed for safety and support, and with care for privacy. Teachers should not share a student’s identity with classmates or families, and should follow school and district policy.
What if a student says a slur was only a joke?
Slurs and identity-based jokes can still cause harm and isolation, especially when repeated. Adults should stop the pattern, name the impact, and follow school and district policy.
How can a teacher support a student who is unsure about telling?
Listen privately, respect the student’s privacy, and ask what support feels safe. Explain what reporting involves, and follow school and district policy while keeping the student informed.
What can parents do if their child feels unwelcome at school?
Listen, affirm your child, and contact the school through its usual route. Ask about supervision, grouping, and follow-up, and connect your child with activities or peers where they feel welcome.
Want Help With This at Your School?
Want help with this at your school? Call 1-866-333-4553 or visit Start Here to begin the Safe School Program plan.
