Beyond acceptance: An evaluation of the Safe Zone Project in a clinical psychology doctoral program

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to implement and evaluate the effectiveness of the Safe Zone Project at a doctoral program in clinical psychology. Adapted from Finkel, Storaasli, Bandele, and Schaefer (2003), the Safe Zone Project is a diversity-training program designed to increase the students' awareness of and competence in working with lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender individuals and the issues that impact them. Thirty-seven of the participants who attended the program volunteered to complete self-report questionnaires. Results indicated increased knowledge, favorably impact on specific attitudes, and self-reported positive behavioral changes. Participants also provided feedback and suggestions for improving the program. Other issues addressed include contributions to previous research, limitations and threats to validity, implications for future research, and suggestions for improving the program.