Nobody is safe from bullying against LGBTQ youth
Stereotypical representation of LGBTQ people in Thailand, especially gay men and trans-women, portrays them as vividly cheerful characters. Opposed to such image, one study found that male sexual minority students in Thailand are 4 times more likely to attempt suicide and 2 times more likely to be at risk for depression compared to their peers. The phenomenon is potentially linked to various forms of abuse they had to endure. “Some (male students) would put their hands in my clothes. One time, I was pushed and forced into a toilet. Then he opened his pants’ zip and tried to force me to give him a blowjob. I screamed very loudly, so he went away” The narrative above was recalled by a 17-year-old transgender student in Bangkok. This is only one of extreme cases where LGBTQ students encountered sexual abuse. In less extreme situations, LGBTQ students were either teased or bullied by their non-LGBTQ peers. Name-calling and mockery were common and physical assault were not rare.