Which of the following experiences was reported more frequently by LGBTQ college students compared to non-LGBTQ students?

• A. Higher graduation rates
• B. More access to financial aid
• C. Higher rates of bullying, harassment, and assault
• D. Greater participation in athletics

Answer: (C)

LGBTQ students often experience a harsher campus climate, with more frequent bullying, harassment, and sometimes assault from peers and even staff. This pattern reflects minority stress and stigma that create unsafe or unwelcoming environments for LGBTQ students, and it’s repeatedly shown in campus surveys and research. Because of this consistent evidence, the experience of higher rates of bullying, harassment, and assault is the one reported more often by LGBTQ students than by non-LGBTQ students.

Other options don’t show the same consistent pattern. Graduation rates, access to financial aid, and athletic participation aren’t universally higher for LGBTQ students and aren’t as strongly supported by research as areas where LGBTQ students report more negative experiences.