Beyond the Spectrum

Navigating the Mental Health Landscape of LGBTQ+ Youths

Edited by:
Haley D. Wikoff, Western Illinois University
Hannah Brinser, Western Illinois University
Christopher N. Smith, Howard University
Terence Mayo, Independent Researcher

A volume in the series: Education Equity and Justice Series. Editor(s): Antonio L. Ellis, American University. Cheryl Holcomb-McCoy, American University.

Call For Chapter Proposals

BOOK DESCRIPTION:
The American University School of Education’s Summer Institute on Education Equity and Justice (SIEEJ) is the home of this book series. The School of Education aims to be locally, nationally, and internationally recognized for making a meaningful impact in the field of education through innovative teaching, research, and service. The mission of the School of Education is to create knowledge and prepare students to transform societies through education. The aim of this series is to include scholarship relating to PreK-16 Academic Excellence; Equity; Antiracism and Social Justice; Diversity and Inclusion; Collaboration; Innovation.

CALL FOR CHAPTERS (INVITATION ONLY):
"Beyond the Spectrum: Navigating the Mental Health Landscape of LGBTQ+ Youths" delves into the multifaceted experiences of LGBTQ+ youths, unraveling the intricate interplay between mental health and identity within this diverse community. As societal attitudes shift, and acceptance grows, this book aims to provide a comprehensive and empathetic exploration of the unique mental health challenges faced by LGBTQ+ youths. The scope of the book encompasses an in-depth examination of the intersectionality within the LGBTQ+ spectrum, acknowledging that mental health struggles are shaped by various factors, including sexual orientation, gender identity, race, and socioeconomic status. Through personal narratives, scholarly insights, and mental health professionals' perspectives, the book aims to shed light on the diverse stories and struggles faced by LGBTQ+ youths, recognizing both resilience and vulnerability.

Key themes include the impact of societal stigma, discrimination, and familial acceptance on mental health outcomes, as well as the role of supportive communities and mental health resources, including counseling services. The book also explores the evolving landscape of mental health care, addressing the need for culturally competent and affirming services for LGBTQ+ youths. "Beyond the Spectrum" seeks to contribute to the ongoing dialogue around LGBTQ+ mental health, fostering understanding, compassion, and actionable insights for mental health professionals, counselors, educators, parents, and the LGBTQ+ community at large. By navigating the complex and often overlooked mental health landscape of LGBTQ+ youths, this book aims to empower individuals, challenge stereotypes, and advocate for a more inclusive and affirming mental health paradigm.

Proposals should be made on one single-spaced page, consisting of your name and affiliation, tentative title, and an abstract (200 – 500 words). Please include an additional page with a brief biography (200 – 300 words). All proposals should be sent as a single Word file of two pages to Haley D. Wikoff (HD-Wikoff@wiu.edu), Hannah Brinser (h-brinser@wiu.edu), Christopher N. Smith (cdott@gmail.com), and Terence Mayo (tlmayo06@gmail.com) by March 10, 2024.

CHAPTER SUBMISSION GUIDELINES:
Authors of accepted peer reviewed proposals will be notified by April 15, 2024 about the status of their submission and sent chapter guidelines. First draft of full chapters, ranging from 7,000 to 8,000 words in Times New Roman 12, double spaced text, inclusive of title, abstract, manuscript, and references, should be submitted as a Microsoft Word email attachment by March 10, 2024. Manuscripts should conform to 7th edition APA style conventions. See Author Guidelines.

TENTATIVE SCHEDULE FOR PUBLICATION:
Invited Chapter Proposals Due – March 10, 2024
Proposals Accepted/Authors Notified by – April 15, 2024
First Draft of Full Manuscripts Due – July 15, 2024
Edits/Revisions by Editors Returned to Authors – September 15, 2024
Second Draft (Author(s) Revisions) Due – October 15, 2024
Submission by Editors to IAP – November 15, 2024

All proposals should be sent to Haley D. Wikoff: HD-Wikoff@wiu.edu; Hannah Brinser: h-brinser@wiu.edu;
Christopher N. Smith: cdott@gmail.com and Terence Mayo: tlmayo06@gmail.com

For additional book series information, email Antonio L. Ellis at equityandjustice@american.edu

CONTENTS