Although research on the health of LGBTI+ populations is expanding rapidly, including a focus on social and health policies, the experiences of LGBTI+ people within healthcare contexts needs to be explored in even more in detail. An increasing body of research has demonstrated that LGBTI+ people face health inequalities, which are due to the pernicious effects of social stigma. A more accurate understanding of the quality of care received and perceived by this population represents a fundamental social issue and a central focus for reducing health inequalities. Indeed, many LGBTI+ people still avoid healthcare contexts for fear of discrimination from healthcare providers. On the other hand, many healthcare providers still have little knowledge about the specific health needs of this population. A further issue concerns the structural/institutional stigma embedded within some health organizations due to the existence of laws and regulations that not guarantee full equality for LGBTI+ populations. The focus of this thematic issue is the experience of LGBTI+ people within healthcare contexts. We invite contributions from a plurality of theoretical and methodological perspectives, including but not limited to: clinical and social psychology, sociology, philosophy, jurisprudence, diversity management, organization and HR management. Qualitative, quantitative and/or mixed-method design are welcome, as well as reviews and critical reflections. Manuscripts focused on the experiences of intersectionality (e.g., intersections of race, ethnicity, ability, class, migration status, etc. within LGBTI+ populations) and from diverse geographic regions are particularly welcome.
DIVERSITY MANAGEMENT AS A CRUCIAL ISSUE OF MANAGEMENT IN 21ST CENTURY
