Perceived sexual and gender minority (SGM) youth experience more bullying in schools than their heteronormative peers. The social ecological model offers a framework for exploring the phenomenon of homophobic bullying. This study aimed to describe experiences of victimized youth. Using critical qualitative inquiry, youth (N = 16) of ages 15 to 20 who self-identified as having been bullied for being perceived to be SGM and who resided in a Midwestern state in the United States were interviewed in-person or online. Thematic analysis revealed that gender nonconformity was a common factor in being bullied. Subthemes are as follows: the sociocultural context shapes school climate; victimized youth felt a perception of being seen as deviant; and, victimized youth react to victimization differently. Findings indicate that bullying for gender nonconformity is a sociocultural issue. Improving the school climate for gender nonconforming youth is still needed. Implementing supportive programs and protective policies at the broader socioecological levels can help.
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