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Combating LGBTphobia in Schools: Evidence from a Field Experiment in France

Author

Listed:
  • Carcillo, Stéphane

    (Sciences Po, Paris)

  • Valfort, Marie-Anne

    (Paris School of Economics)

  • Vergara Merino, Pedro

    (CREST-ENSAE)

Abstract

This paper presents the first rigorous evaluation of school-based interventions aimed at reducing LGBTphobia. We focus on a classroom intervention that addresses the issue of LGBT harassment through perspective-taking and narrative exchange. Using a field experiment in France with more than 10,000 middle and high school students, we find robust evidence of strong positive effects, with variations across gender, age, and socio-economic status. We argue that changing perceptions of group norms is a key channel driving these heterogeneous effects.

Suggested Citation

  • Carcillo, Stéphane & Valfort, Marie-Anne & Vergara Merino, Pedro, 2025. "Combating LGBTphobia in Schools: Evidence from a Field Experiment in France," IZA Discussion Papers 17683, Institute of Labor Economics (IZA).
    • Handle: RePEc:iza:izadps:dp17683
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Keywords

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    JEL classification:

    • C93 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Design of Experiments - - - Field Experiments
    • J15 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demographic Economics - - - Economics of Minorities, Races, Indigenous Peoples, and Immigrants; Non-labor Discrimination
    • J16 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demographic Economics - - - Economics of Gender; Non-labor Discrimination
    • J71 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Labor Discrimination - - - Hiring and Firing

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