Dr. Keith Watts serves as an Assistant Professor at the University of Kentucky College of Social Work, where his research thoughtfully explores mental health challenges within communities that often face marginalization. He holds a particular interest in LGBTQ+ studies, delving into the complex experiences of individuals navigating multiple layers of identity and potential disadvantage, such as Black LGBTQ+ individuals and LGBTQ+ youth. His work is deeply motivated by a desire to enhance mental health and overall well-being for these groups, aiming to refine service delivery through approaches that are both culturally sensitive and humble.
His contributions to academic literature are significant and insightful. Among his notable publications are studies that shed light on how gay Black men perceive masculinity and the subsequent effects on their mental health. He has also examined the connection between feelings of thwarted belongingness, experiences of microaggressions, and the mental health struggles faced by LGBTQ+ emerging adults. Furthermore, his research provides valuable understanding into how LGBTQ+ youth living in the Southern United States manage daily stressors, offering a comprehensive look at the specific hurdles these communities encounter.
Currently, Dr. Watts is focused on investigating the profound influence of belonging to an identity-based community on the mental health and well-being of Black LGBTQ+ individuals. This ongoing work seeks to uncover the vital role that community ties and support systems play in mental health outcomes, with the goal of providing practical, actionable insights for both practitioners in the field and those involved in shaping policy.
Through his dedicated research, Dr. Watts aims to help bridge existing gaps in service provision and foster environments that are truly inclusive and affirming for everyone, celebrating individuals regardless of their identity. His commitment to advancing social work practices and improving mental health outcomes is clearly reflected in his continuous efforts to address the intricate needs of marginalized populations.
Dr. Watts' scholarly work not only enriches academic understanding but also carries tangible implications for the creation of programs and policies designed to support diverse communities effectively. His ongoing endeavors continue to inspire positive change and actively promote equity within the social work profession, leaving a meaningful and lasting impact on both the academic landscape and the communities he engages with.
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The University of Kentucky College of Social Work in Lexington, KY, is deeply committed to advancing social justice and enhancing individual and community well-being. With a history spanning over 85 years, the college offers comprehensive programs from undergraduate to doctoral levels, including the BASW, MSW, PhD, and online DSW, all accredited by CSWE. Students gain a strong foundation in theory and practice through rigorous coursework and essential field education, preparing them to address complex social issues and advocate for vulnerable populations. Faculty and students engage in impactful research across vital areas like child welfare, substance use, and inequality, often through specialized labs and centers. The college fosters a diverse and inclusive environment, emphasizing community engagement and translational research to create positive social change locally and globally.
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The University of Kentucky (UK, UKY, or U of K) is a public land-grant research university in Lexington, Kentucky. Founded in 1865 by John Bryan Bowman as the Agricultural and Mechanical College of Kentucky, the university is one of the state's two land-grant universities (the other being Kentucky State University) and the institution with the highest enrollment in the state, with 30,545 students as of fall 2019.
