Abstract

Choosing a surrogate to make medical decisions for a patient is an emotionally challenging task. In hospital settings, it is estimated over 86% of life saving medical decisions have been made by a surrogate (Swigart, Lidz, Butterworth, & Arnold, 1996). For the marginalized populations of lesbian, gay men, bisexual, and transgender persons (LGBT), decisions are especially difficult, compounded by issues of discrimination, lack of legal support, level of relationship commitment,, and complicated disclosure to family and medical professionals (Riggle, Rostosky, Prather, & Hamrin, 2005). Limited research has been presented regarding environmental and social factors that impact the choice of a surrogate decision-maker for a LGBT individual. This in-depth literature review will examine factors influencing individual surrogate choice, identify obstacles and gaps in the literature findings, and explore services required by the LBGT population.

Thesis Completion

2010

Semester

Spring

Advisor

Buckey, Julia

Degree

Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

College

College of Health and Public Affairs

Degree Program

Social Work

Subjects

Arts and Sciences -- Dissertations, Academic; Dissertations, Academic -- Arts and Sciences

Format

PDF

Identifier

DP0022443

Language

English

Rights

Written permission granted by copyright holder to the University of Central Florida Libraries to digitize and distribute for nonprofit, educational purposes.

Access Status

Open Access

Length of Campus-only Access

None

Document Type

Honors in the Major Thesis

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Included in

Social Work Commons

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