Entre Silêncios e Desafios:

Representações Sociais de Docentes sobre Diversidade Sexual na Educação Básica

Abstract

This article presents a snippet of a doctoral research, exploring the perceptions, knowledge,
and practices of Basic Education teachers regarding sexual diversity in the school context. Based on
semi-structured interviews with thirty teachers, the study investigates topics such as gender identity,
sexual orientation, and interactions with LGBTIQIAPN+ students. The results reveal that, although
they recognize the importance of discussing these issues in the classroom, teachers often avoid the
topic due to concerns about lack of adequate training and fear of conflicts with families and school
administrators. Their social representations are influenced by religious moralism and essentialist
conceptions of gender and sexuality. This study highlights the need to promote comprehensive and
inclusive teacher training to address issues of sexual diversity in schools, aiming for a more equitable
and respectful education of diversity.