DOI: 10.1044/2026_persp-25-00077 ISSN: 2381-4764

The LGBTQ+ Communication Sciences and Disorders Student Association Climate Survey

Charlie Lenell Lunaris, Greta C. Robinson, Jonah Snapper, Kayla Howerton

Purpose:

The purpose of the survey was to understand the positive and negative experiences of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and other related gender/sexual orientation identities (LGBTQ+) communication sciences and disorders (CSD) students, which were associated with their academic training to learn how to better support these students.

Method:

The climate survey comprised demographic questions, agreement statements, and open-ended responses. Four thematic types of agreement statements included the following: respect for LGBTQ+ individuals and other marginalized groups, restroom access, resource availability/awareness, and gender-affirming voice training.

Results:

Only two question responses received an average score of 4 ( agree ), suggesting an overall need for improvement in acceptance and support of LGBTQ+ CSD students. Additionally, students in discriminatory states had lower scores of agreement on questions related to respect, resources, and access to appropriate restrooms.

Conclusion:

CSD faculty need to improve the climate in CSD for acceptance, resources, and support for LGBTQ+ CSD students.

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