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Although sexting is a widespread phenomenon among today’s youth, little is known about their experiences of sexting with their intimate partners. This study addresses this gap by examining young people’s reasons for sexting and emotional reactions to sending and receiving sexts in their intimate relationships, as reported by 764 (48.7% girls) 15–20-year-olds in Finland. Both younger and older girls and boys reported mostly positive reactions to both sending and receiving sexts. However, girls reported more negative reactions than boys did. Girls’ reasons for sending sexts were more frequently related to their own desire to feel sexy or flirtatious, their need for validation from their partner, or the pressure that their partner put on them to sext, whereas boys’ reasons more often indicated normative ideas of sexting as a typical component in a romantic relationship and responding to sexts sent to them by their partners. The results suggest that although it is mostly consensual and reciprocal, sexting within intimate relationships may carry different meanings for boys and girls, reflecting gendered heterosexual norms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Heterosexual migrant men and women in the Netherlands often face barriers to accessing health services, including HIV testing, that may lead to late-stage HIV diagnoses. This study explored factors of influence in the usage of HIV testing among heterosexual migrants. Methods: Qualitative evaluation with semi-structured interviews at the Amsterdam-based AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) Checkpoint and one focus group discussion (FGD) conducted during June-July 2023 with 19 participants: interviews with 12 heterosexual migrants from low- or middle-income countries (LMICs) and FGD (n = 5) and interviews (n = 2) with 7 key informants from the (public) health sector. Recorded interviews were transcribed and thematically analyzed, using the framework of Andersen's Expanded Behavioral Model of Health Services Use. Results: In total, 55 themes emerged from the interviews and the FGD. Examples include insufficient availability of information on HIV and testing services, and difficulty in accessing these services (e.g. the barrier of the online appointment system of the Centre for Sexual Health (CSH)). HIV test participants expressed free, rapid testing, no appointment required, and a positive experience during their HIV test as enablers to test in the future. Results from key informants showed that poor health literacy and lack of clarity on the healthcare system's guidelines were barriers for heterosexual migrants in accessing information on HIV and testing services. It also revealed past initiatives and interventions that were successful in reaching at-risk groups such as the integration of HIV testing into sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing, but that were subsequently discontinued due to financial constraints. Conclusion: Factors contributing to a low HIV test uptake were participants' perception of limited accessibility of CSH facilities, insufficient available information on HIV (testing) services, and low perception of HIV risk. Unclear policies on accessing HIV/STI testing services at CSHs, and potential missed opportunities for HIV testing at general practitioners were contributing factors identified by key informants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current body of literature is weighted to the female perspective in exploring the perception and experience of romantic relationships. The paucity of literature on the male perspective provides an opportunity to highlight the unique masculine view attached to relationships. The current scoping review is aimed at summarizing the available literature about the perception and experience of men in various romantic, heterosexual relationship contexts. The findings were drawn from 163 studies published in the last 10 years that were extracted from multiple databases, including SCOPUS, PsycINFO, Web of Science, and Pubmed. The current masculine perceptions associated with romantic relationships were captured and grouped through four contexts: man as a relational being, man in a state of singleness, man as a partner, and man as a parent. Power and sex appear to be the key drivers of research about men across relationship contexts. This study contributes to the literature by identifying the current research gap and providing clearer directions in research about romantic relationships that take into account the perspectives of men. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amid changes in the North American socio-cultural/political and dating landscape, there exist questions about whether the sexual double standard and the inequality (e.g., of pleasure) in sex still exist for young women today. In this study, we explored the discourses that shape young women's navigation of and talk about heterosexuality, or heterosex. Young, heterosexual women of diverse demographic and relationship backgrounds aged 18–24 (N = 28) attended one of five online focus groups. Informed by feminist post-structuralism and discursive psychology, we analyzed women's talk about doing heterosex. Many participants mobilized a discourse of expectations of compulsory heterosex practices in casual and committed contexts. Within that discourse, young women were positioned as both constrained and regulated in their sexual lives and as needing to comply with unwanted sex. Risks of non-compliance included the risk of being perceived as being defective and/or "bad." Participants' talk also linked coercion, assault, and other male-perpetrated violence against women with how heterosex is done in today's context. Our findings suggest that despite #MeToo and other exposés of rape culture, young women remain constrained by heterosexual norms. However, their language, ability, and willingness to challenge the current situation concerning heterosex is more sophisticated than previously observed. These advancements are promising, as they suggest the importance of continued research and activism in this area and carry several practical implications, including for sex education programming and counselling and support services in sessions with young women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heterosexual people make up a small, but growing proportion of people living with HIV in Australia. This article draws on semi-structured interviews with thirteen heterosexual men and women living with HIV to examine the bearing that sexual identity had on their participation in a peer navigation programme. Our analyses consider the influence of sexuality and gender on the quality of peer relations and the effects of HIV-related stigma on health service engagement and quality of life. Gender and sexuality were significant factors in establishing understanding, acceptance, and community for participants. Having their heterosexuality mirrored by a peer was affirming for men. Women instead emphasised their gendered experiences of HIV. Otherwise, participants' narratives suggested that an experienced peer could reassure, guide interactions with community and services, and ease treatment-related and nonclinical aspects of life. We see peer navigation as a promising intervention to improve the quality of life for heterosexual people living with HIV. Person-centred support from a peer may be particularly important in HIV service environments adapting to the needs of heterosexual people. Peer navigation programmes should promote choice and employ peers of diverse experiences. Implications for referral and the improvement of social services for heterosexual people living with HIV are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increased rates of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are reported among men who have sex with men (MSM) and new interventions are needed. We aimed to assess whether post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) with doxycycline could reduce the incidence of chlamydia or syphilis (or both) and whether the meningococcal group B vaccine (4CMenB) could reduce the incidence of gonorrhoea in this population. ANRS 174 DOXYVAC is a multicentre, open-label, randomised trial with a 2 × 2 factorial design conducted at ten hospital sites in Paris, France. Eligible participants were MSM aged 18 years or older, HIV negative, had a history of bacterial STIs within the 12 months before enrolment, and who were already included in the ANRS PREVENIR study (a cohort of MSM using pre-exposure prophylaxis with tenofovir and emtricitabine for HIV prevention). Participants were randomly assigned (2:1) to doxycycline PEP (two pills of 100 mg each orally within 72 h after condomless sex, with no more than three doses of 200 mg per week) or no PEP groups and were also randomly assigned (1:1) to the 4CMenB vaccine (GlaxoSmithKline, Paris, France; two intramuscular injections at enrolment and at 2 months) or no vaccine groups, using a computer-generated randomisation list with a permuted fixed block size of four. Follow-up occurred for at least 12 months (with visits every 3 months) up to 24 months. The coprimary outcomes were the risk of a first episode of chlamydia or syphilis (or both) after the enrolment visit at baseline for the doxycycline intervention and the risk of a first episode of gonorrhoea starting at month 3 (ie, 1 month after the second vaccine dose) for the vaccine intervention, analysed in the modified intention-to-treat population (defined as all randomly assigned participants who had at least one follow-up visit). This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov , NCT04597424 (ongoing). Between Jan 19, 2021, and Sept 19, 2022, 556 participants were randomly assigned. 545 (98%) participants were included in the modified intention-to-treat analysis for the doxycycline PEP and no PEP groups and 544 (98%) were included for the 4CMenB vaccine and no vaccine groups. The median follow-up was 14 months (IQR 9–18). The median age was 40 years (34–48) and all 545 participants were male. There was no interaction between the two interventions (p≥0·1) for the primary outcome. The incidence of a first episode of chlamydia or syphilis (or both) was 8·8 per 100 person-years (35 events in 362 participants) in the doxycycline PEP group and 53·2 per 100 person-years (80 events in 183 participants) in the no PEP group (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 0·17 [95% CI 0·12–0·26]; p<0·0001). The incidence of a first episode of gonorrhoea, starting from month 3 was 58·3 per 100 person-years (103 events in 274 participants) in the 4CmenB vaccine group and 77·1 per 100 person-years (122 events in 270 participants) in the no vaccine group (aHR 0·78 [95% CI 0·60–1·01]; p=0·061). There were no deaths during the study. One drug-related serious adverse event (fixed-drug eruption) occurred in the doxycycline PEP group. Six (2%) participants in the doxycycline group discontinued doxycycline PEP because of gastrointestinal adverse events. Doxycycline PEP strongly reduced the incidence of chlamydia and syphilis in MSM, but we did not show efficacy of the 4CmenB vaccine for gonorrhoea. Doxycycline PEP should be assessed in other populations, such as heterosexual men and women, and its effect on antimicrobial resistance carefully monitored. ANRS Maladies Infectieuses Emergentes. For the French translation of the abstract see Supplementary Materials section. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sexual minority men (gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men; SMM) in Nigeria are disproportionately affected by HIV compared to heterosexual men. There is a dearth of research on the correlates of antiretroviral therapy (ART) non-adherence and correlates in both groups. The current study examined the associations of ART non-adherence with sociodemographic and psychosocial characteristics among a sample of Nigerian heterosexual and SMM. Between March and September 2014, we surveyed 120 SMM and 108 heterosexual men receiving ART in Lagos and Abuja, Nigeria. We specified univariate and multivariable linear regression models to examine correlates of ART non-adherence. We found that 50.8% and 29.6% of sexual minority and heterosexual men respectively self-reported ART non-adherence which was significantly associated with psychosocial factors such as stigma, depressive symptoms, and suicidality. Mental health care and psychosocial support should be incorporated into routine HIV care for Nigerian SMM living with HIV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, I draw upon critical feminist and intersectional frameworks to delineate an overarching orientation to structural oppression and unequal power relations that advantages White heteropatriarchal nuclear families (WHNFs) and marginalizes others as a function of family structure and relationship status. Specifically, I theorize that marriage fundamentalism, like structural racism, is a key structuring element of White heteropatriarchal supremacy. Marriage fundamentalism can be understood as an ideological and cultural phenomenon, where adherents espouse the superiority of the two‐parent married family. But it is also a hidden or unacknowledged structural mechanism of White heteropatriarchal family supremacy that is essential to the reproduction and maintenance of family inequality in the United States. Through several examples, I demonstrate how—since colonization—marriage fundamentalism has been instantiated through laws, policies, and practices to unduly advantage WHNFs while simultaneously marginalizing Black, Indigenous, immigrant, mother‐headed, and lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning (LGBTQ+) families, among others. I conclude with a call for family scientists to further interrogate how marriage fundamentalism reproduces family inequality in American family life and to work toward its dismantling. A deeper understanding of how these complex and often covert mechanisms of structural oppression operate in family life is needed to disrupt these mechanisms and advance family equality and justice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sexual minorities are a rapidly growing population, with recent estimates showing a two-fold increase in the percentage of sexual minorities over the past decade. Working with relatively few measures to identify sexual minorities, social scientists have amassed an impressive amount of evidence on inequality by sexuality. Despite this remarkable work, I argue that it is important to take a step back analytically and re-assess sexual minorities from a descriptive standpoint. Using population-level data from the CDC's Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, I provide unadjusted estimates of sociodemographic, socioeconomic, and family characteristics by sexual identity. Results reveal that sexual minorities are younger, are more racially diverse, and concentrate in different parts of the country than heterosexuals. Similarly, sexual minorities have remarkably different socioeconomic lives than heterosexuals, who enjoy higher annual household incomes, achieve higher educational attainment, and are more likely to be homeowners. Sexual minorities are also less likely to be married than heterosexuals. I conclude by highlighting that descriptive research can illuminate compositional differences between sexual minorities and heterosexuals; provide rationales for adjusting for certain characteristics that might confound relationships between sexual identity and numerous outcomes; and highlight potential explanatory mechanisms to make better sense of well-established findings regarding sexual minority disadvantage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bisexual+ (e.g., bisexual, pansexual, queer) women experience higher rates of sexual violence (SV) and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) than heterosexual and lesbian women, as well as unique identity‐related minority stress. We examined between‐ and within‐person associations between bisexual minority stress and PTSD symptoms related to SV in a sample of young bisexual+ women (N = 133) who reported adult SV (Mage = 22.0 years, range: 18–25 years; 85.0% White; 99.3% cisgender). We analyzed data from four waves of data collection (baseline to 3‐month follow‐up) using multilevel models. Controlling for SV severity, there was a significant within‐person effect of antibisexual stigma from lesbian/gay people on PTSD, β = .17, p = .010, suggesting that at waves when women experienced more stigma, they also reported higher PTSD symptom levels. At the between‐person level, women who reported higher levels of antibisexual stigma from heterosexual people, β = .26, p = .043, and anticipated binegativity, β = .29, p = .005, on average across study waves also reported higher average levels of PTSD. Additionally, anticipated binegativity explained the association between average antibisexual stigma and PTSD, β = .15, p = .014, 95% CI [0.45, 4.61]. Bisexual minority stress may be associated with higher PTSD symptom severity following SV among young bisexual+ women, and the anticipation of binegativity may be a target mechanism in this association. Study findings highlight the importance of examining the joint contributions of SV and minority stress to identify novel targets for future research and practice to address PTSD symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined differences in alcohol use by sexual and gender identities during the COVID-19 pandemic, and assessed whether variation between groups was explained by pandemic-related stressors and minority stress. Data from 2,429 partnered adults in the National Couples' Health and Time Use Study (n = 3,593) collected from September 2020 to April 2021 were used to model drinking patterns (frequency, amount, and drinking to cope) by sexual and gender identities, COVID-19 stress and disruption, microaggressions, and supportive climate. Regression models indicated differences in drinking by gender and sexual identities, even controlling for demographic and socioeconomic factors. Gay, lesbian, and bisexual people had higher odds of drinking to cope with the pandemic than did heterosexual people, and cisgender men had higher odds than did cisgender women. Gay and lesbian people drank more regularly than did heterosexual people, as did cisgender men in relation to cisgender women. Exclusively bisexual people drank significantly more drinks than exclusively heterosexual people, and cisgender men drank significantly more drinks than did cisgender women and those who identified as trans/another gender identity. COVID-19 stress and minority stress were associated with greater alcohol consumption, but they did not account for these differentials. Moving forward, researchers will need to continuously assess these associations, as sources of discrimination and stress will persist beyond the pandemic. Although LGBTQ+ people have disproportionate sources of stress, they varied in how they used alcohol to cope. Potential sources of resilience among sexual and gender diverse individuals should be explored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The authors use the theoretical framework of group analysis to facilitate experiential small and median groups for students on trainings in individual psychodynamic psychotherapy. Even though in our many years of clinical and educative group practice it would usually be a definite no, the authors found themselves debating whether members who revealed they were a couple in the past could in fact be together in a group. This discussion prompted the authors to reflect closely on their co-facilitator relationship, causing them to consider what they understood by 'couple'. It offered an opportunity (previously unconscious) to explore what they had experienced in group trainings and within their own group practice—that of the frequent binary fixing of conductors as male/female and heterosexual, and whether such fixing may be a defence by the group, including the group conductors, against allowing and exploring a more fluid, nuanced exploration of gender and sexuality. The authors propose that instead of small experiential groups, median groups may offer a richer opportunity for such exploration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Both the diagnosis and the process of undergoing fertility treatment have a considerable negative effect on a person's quality of life (QoL). The evaluation of this effect is essential to offer comprehensive and high-quality care. The FertiQoL questionnaire is the most widely used instrument to evaluate QoL in people with fertility issues. Objective: This study is aimed at examining the dimensionality, validity and reliability of the Spanish version of the FertiQoL questionnaire in a sample of Spanish heterosexual couples undergoing fertility treatment. Methods: FertiQoL was administered to 500 people (50.2% women; 49.8% men; average age 36.1 years) recruited from a public Assisted Reproduction Unit in Spain. In this cross-sectional study, Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) was used to analyse the dimensionality, validity and reliability of FertiQoL. Discriminant and convergent validity were assessed using the Average Variance Extracted (AVE), and model reliability was shown by Composite Reliability (CR) and Cronbach's alpha. Results: CFA's results support the 6-factor solution of the original FertiQoL (RMSEA and SRMR <0.09; CFI and TLI >0.9). However, several items had to be eliminated due to their low factorial weights – in particular, items Q4, Q5, Q6, Q11, Q14, Q15 and Q21. Moreover, FertiQoL showed good reliability (CR >0.7) and validity (AVE >0.5). Conclusion: The Spanish version of FertiQoL is a reliable and valid instrument in measuring QoL in heterosexual couples undergoing fertility treatment. The CFA confirms the original 6-factors model but indicates that by eliminating some items the psychometric properties could improve. However, further research is recommended to address some of the measurement issues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aims to describe couples' changes in sexuality after non-metastatic breast cancer from a longitudinal perspective. Our research question was: how do couples experience the cancer-induced change in sexual frequency and what are the reasons evoked to explain this kind of change over time? Forty heterosexual couples participated in a semi-structured interview three months and two years after surgery. A reflexive thematic analysis was conducted on a specific question about sexuality from a larger interview guide. The results showed that couples follow multiple trajectories regarding sexuality after the onset of oncological treatment. Most couples experienced temporary or more lasting changes, mainly associated with altered body image and pain. Some stopped having sexual activities at the beginning of treatment but resumed sexuality two years later; others were unable to restore sexuality. However, some couples stayed sexually active all along the cancer journey, showing that cessation of any sexual activity is not inevitable. Sexuality represents a significant long-term issue for breast cancer survivors and their partners. Prompt treatment can prevent sexual difficulties from crystallizing, while preserving the individual well-being and the quality of the couple's relationship. Health professionals should be aware of the need to screen early for sexual changes, while reevaluating the couple's situation regularly during care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Bisexual individuals experience discrimination both from heterosexual individuals and from the Lesbian and Gay (LG) community. This double discrimination affects their mental health. This study aimed to explore the relationship between binegativity (from heterosexual and LB individuals) and internalized binegativity and symptoms of depression and anxiety, as well as the mediating role of social support. The second purpose was to explore whether these variables could predict the symptoms of depression and anxiety. Methods: A sample of 110 bisexual individuals (77.3% cisgender women, Mage = 25.2) completed self-report measures. Results: Most participants reported being discriminated against by heterosexual (93.2%) and LG (81.8%) individuals. However, they perceived and experienced higher discrimination from heterosexual people. The majority experienced internalized binegativity. As hypothesized, heterosexual discrimination predicted depressive and anxiety symptoms. Contrary to expectations, discrimination from the LG community and internalized binegativity did not predict symptoms, although bivariate correlations showed a positive relationship. Social support was a moderator of symptoms of depression, but not of anxiety. Conclusions: These findings highlight the impact of binegativity on the mental health of bisexual individuals and the importance of social support. Policy implications: Our results provide practitioners and policymakers with evidence of the effects of discrimination experienced by bisexual individuals. Educational campaigns and public awareness programs are needed to foster a more inclusive and accepting society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores the representation of transgender individuals in Indian cinema after 2018, with a focus on the impact of streaming platforms. It discusses the traditional stereotypes associated with transgender characters in Bollywood films and how these have started to shift since the decriminalization of homosexuality. The article emphasizes the role of Over-The-Top platforms in promoting LGBTQ+ policies and mass sensitization. It also provides a case study of the film "Chandigarh Kare Aashiqui" to illustrate how post-2018 Indian cinema addresses transphobia. Overall, the article highlights the increasing popularity of queer-themed movies in India and their contribution to promoting diversity and inclusion. [Extracted from the article]

This editorial from the journal Sexual and Reproductive Health Matters emphasizes the importance of pleasure in discussions of sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR). The authors argue that pleasure has been overlooked, leading to shame and stigma around sex. They call for a more radical understanding of pleasure as a political lens and a methodological approach to interventions in the development sector. The authors also highlight the diversity of pleasure and the significance of touch in sexual knowledge. They advocate for a more inclusive view of sexual health that supports the autonomy and desires of marginalized communities, such as queer people, sex workers, and the polyamorous. The text suggests that embracing pleasure as a political and decolonial act can invigorate scholarship and activism in the field of sexuality, and calls for a shift in the discourse on sex to include lived experiences and diverse perspectives. [Extracted from the article]

This article provides a review and visualization of findings over the last 30 years related to the orgasm gap between men and women in heterosexual encounters. We describe and compare techniques commonly used for measuring orgasm occurrence and frequency patterns, and we summarize the contrast in orgasm rates shown in these studies across different behavior sets and social contexts. Of central importance, women’s orgasm rates increase dramatically with the inclusion of behaviors that provide specific stimulation to the clitoris, revealing this gap is largely driven by social dynamics rather than strictly biological mechanisms. Disparities between men and women are especially pronounced in contexts with low levels of partnered sexual experience, partner familiarity, and relationship commitment. Women are also more likely to experience orgasm when masturbating or partnered with women than when partnered with men. Ultimately, we echo calls for a biopsychosocial approach to sexual enjoyment and well-being, and we provide recommendations for future research, including increased precision in measurement and reporting, diversifying sampling concentrations, and assessing life course trajectories. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the association between protected characteristics and inequalities in mental health care in the UK. Multinomial regression was used to model the association between protected characteristics and self-reported distress. Data was extracted from waves 6–10 (2014–2019) of the UK Household Longitudinal Study. Two risk categories were constructed: "undiagnosed distress" referred to a General Health Questionnaire-12 (GHQ-12) score above "caseness" along with no history of mental health diagnosis; "diagnosis without self-report symptoms" referred to a GHQ-12 score consistently below "caseness" within the study time frame but having received a mental health diagnosis. Compared to people without a disability, people with a disability are at considerably greater risk of both undiagnosed distress (Relative risk ratios (RRR) 2.76; Confidence Interval (CI): 2.55, 2.99) and diagnosis without self-reported symptoms (RRR 3.61; CI: 2.80, 4.66). Likewise, women were more likely than men to report undiagnosed distress (RRR = 1.49; CI: 1.38,1.61) or a diagnosis without self-reported symptoms (RRR = 1.38; CI: 1.08, 1.76. Lesbian, gay, and bisexual people are at greater risk of undiagnosed distress compared with heterosexual people (RRR 1.42; CI: 1.19, 1.70). Adults aged 16–24 years were at greatest risk compared to all other age groups. People from a minority ethnic background had a reduced risk of diagnosis without self-report symptoms compared with people from a White ethnic background (RRR 0.34; CI: 0.20, 0.61). Education, employment and income variables moderated some of these associations. This is the first study to examine diagnosis without self-report symptoms alongside undiagnosed distress. Findings suggest that addressing inequality in mental health care requires increased understanding of the needs and strengths within different groups and to provide appropriate forms of social, medical or psychosocial intervention rather than a singular focus on increasing detection, diagnosis and treatment. People with a disability appear to be at greatest disadvantage, requiring greater attention in policy and practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using a vignette methodology, this study examined reactions to same-gender versus other-gender flirtation in a sample of 445 German young adults: 320 participants with a heterosexual orientation and 125 participants with a lesbian or gay (LG) orientation. Even in LG-friendly societies as Germany, receiving advances from someone of the same gender might still evoke heterosexuals' homonegativity. Another factor that might influence heterosexuals' reactions to same-gender flirtation is the fear of being misidentified as LG (social contagion concerns). Contrary to hypothesis, results provided little evidence to classify heterosexual participants' reactions to same-gender flirters as homonegative. Firstly, heterosexual participants showed the same degree of negative affect and avoidance behavior in the same-gender flirtation condition as LG participants did in the other-gender flirtation condition. Only positive affect scores were somewhat lower for heterosexual participants in the same-gender flirtation condition compared to LG participants in the other-gender flirtation condition. Secondly, when anti-LG attitudes and social contagion concerns were considered together, only social contagion concerns contributed to explaining variance in heterosexual participants' response to same-gender flirters. Specifically, the impact of social contagion concerns on heterosexual participants' avoidance of same-gender flirters was mediated by (lacking) positive affect, but not negative affect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Acceptance of family diversity has increased. However, families that differ from the standard North American family (SNAF) are still confidently portrayed as the cause of numerous social problems, even when evidence may be lacking or mixed. This article describes and critiques five assumptions that inform advocates' claims: the belief that the heterosexual nuclear family is the most (1) real, (2) divine, (3) natural, (4) longstanding, and (5) functional form of kinship. These ideas, though dubious, can exert harmful influence on Americans in their personal lives and in public policymaking. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study uses original data from the Dynamics of Social Life During COVID-19 Survey (DSL-COVID) to examine the importance of romantic partnership among heterosexual single adults in the United States. We find that almost 40 percent of single adults report that having a long-term committed romantic relationship is "not at all important" to their lives. However, the importance of finding a romantic partner varies by gender and prior relationship experience. Compared to women with no prior romantic relationships, women who have been in a committed romantic relationship or have been married before are more likely to report having a romantic partner is not at all important. In contrast, men who have been in a committed romantic relationship are more likely to report that having a romantic partner is at least somewhat important compared to men with no relationship experience. Prior experience with romantic relationships is associated with lower value of romantic partnership for women, but a higher value of romantic partnership for men. These results have implications for union formation, as singles exhibit heterogeneous romantic relationship preferences. Future research on union formation should consider how singles value traditional romantic partnership and further explore how gender relates to dating and relationship decisions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND Disclosure of donor conception has been advocated in several jurisdictions in recent years, especially in those that practice identity-release donation. However, research on disclosure decisions has not been consolidated systematically in the last 10 years to review if parents are telling and what factors may be impacting their decisions. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE Are parents disclosing to their donor-conceived children, and what factors have influenced their disclosure decisions across different contexts and family forms in the last 10 years? SEARCH METHODS A bibliographic search of English-language, peer-reviewed journal articles published between 2012 and 2022 from seven databases was undertaken. References cited in included articles were manually scrutinized to identify additional references and references that cited the included articles were also manually searched. Inclusion criteria were articles focused on parents (including heterosexual, single mothers by choice, same-sex couples, and transsexual) of donor-conceived persons in both jurisdictions with or without identity-release provisions. Studies focused solely on surrogacy, donors, donor-conceived persons, or medical/fertility staff were excluded as were studies where it was not possible to extract donor-recipient parents' data separately. Both quantitative and qualitative studies were included. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines were followed and Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Tools for Systematic Reviews were used to assess article quality and bias. OUTCOMES Thirty-seven articles met the inclusion criteria representing 34 studies and 4248 parents (including heterosexual, single, same-sex, and transsexual parents although the majority were heterosexual) from countries with anonymous donation and those with identity-release provisions or who had subsequently enacted these provisions (Australia, Belgium, Finland, France, Hong Kong, Middle East, Spain, Sweden, the UK, and the USA) A general trend towards disclosure was noted across these groups of parents with most disclosing to their donor-conceived children before the age of 10 years. Further, the majority of those who had not yet told, reported planning to disclose, although delayed decisions were also associated with lower disclosure overall. Same-sex and single parents were more likely to disclose than heterosexual parents. There was recognition of disclosure as a process involving ongoing conversations and that decisions were impacted by multiple interacting intrapersonal, interpersonal, and external contextual and social factors. Methodological limitations, such as the different population groups and contexts from which participants were drawn (including that those parents who choose not to disclose may be less likely to participate in research), are acknowledged in integrating findings. WIDER IMPLICATIONS This review has reinforced the need for a theoretical model to explain parents' disclosure decisions and research exploring the role of legislative provisions, culture, and donor/family type in decision-making. Greater ongoing access to psychological support around disclosure may be important to promote parent and family well-being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined intimate partner violence (IPV) and identity abuse (i.e., partner violence targeting someone's sexual orientation) among bisexual-spectrum and heterosexual cisgender undergraduate women in relation to their mental health and academic adjustment. Participants were first- and second-year bisexual-spectrum (n = 81) and heterosexual (n = 243) undergraduate cisgender women at a large, public university in the Midwest. IPV was prevalent in the sample, but bisexual-spectrum cisgender women who had been in relationships were significantly more likely to report IPV than their heterosexual counterparts (77.44% vs. 44.44% respectively). Over half of bisexual-spectrum cisgender women in dating relationships reported identity abuse. Most participants that experienced identity abuse indicated the perpetrator was heterosexual and/or a cisgender man. Sexual orientation did not moderate the relationship between IPV and depression, anxiety, or negative academic adjustment outcomes. Universities should integrate education on LGBTQ oppressions into their primary prevention programs, while also continuing to bolster IPV prevention and intervention efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper explores working class couples' experiences of female‐breadwinning during the Great Recession in Spain. It examines the extent to which couples' adaptations to these gender‐atypical work‐family arrangements have led to processes of (un)doing gender. The study is based on the analysis of 24 semi‐structured biographical interviews and life history calendars with men and women in 12 heterosexual couples who have gone through different breadwinning statuses during their trajectory. Findings show that men whose partners were primary breadwinners for a period make the greatest effort to preserve the male‐breadwinner illusion. In contrast, female breadwinners identify with a co‐breadwinner model and do not understate their own economic contribution. Men's insufficient participation in housework and child care is experienced by women with disapproval, which turns into open conflict when the women perform the bulk of such work. The paper concludes that adaptation to unconventional arrangements can constitute a catalyst for processes that undo gender, but more qualitative longitudinal research is needed to determine how economistic and normative factors interact dynamically across different countries and social groups in shaping these processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract2SLGBTQ+ people face disproportionately high rates of gender-based violence (GBV) compared to cisgender heterosexual people. Scholars have predominantly responded to this violence by reporting on victimization, which homogenizes queer and trans life as misery. To avoid reproducing this joy-deficit, we propose a novel approach that centers queer sexual joy. As rape culture is symptomatic of cisheteronormativity, queer sexual joy is a useful analytic with which to subvert GBV. Drawing on findings from the Queer Sexual Joy project, a mixed-methods study involving 100 young adults from Canada and the US, we introduce six recommendations for a framework to focalize queer and trans sexual joy in GBV prevention education, including: 1) containers for safety; 2) communication strategies; 3) bodily autonomy; 4) trauma-informed, anti-oppression, 5) pleasure; and 6) dissociation and grounding practices. We propose that GBV education rooted in queer sexual joy would reorient all youth from hegemonic sexual scripts and provide a frame for more just sexual cultures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The official position of the Church of England (CofE) regarding human sexuality affirms a heteronormative ideal of human relationship that finds fulfilment in marriage with an orientation towards procreation. Official publications by the CofE justify the male/female partnership in several ways, but it is the recurring appeal to human biology that is of interest in this paper. This paper will critique a natural law approach in which prescriptive statements are derived from biology to justify heterosexual relationships. This paper will pay attention to Issues in Human Sexuality (1991) because of the status afforded to it by the CofE; it was essentially used as an official statement on human sexuality; ordinands have been asked to abide by its theology; and because its theology is explicitly affirmed in subsequent CofE documents. Although Issues has been superseded and the CofE is in a new phase of debate, claims about biology remain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document contains abstract translations from the journal "Person-Centered & Experiential Psychotherapies." The first abstract discusses the therapist's experience of metaphor in non-directive person-centered relationships. The study found that therapists experienced metaphor in relation to relinquishing certainty, risking curiosity, and connecting briefly. The second abstract explores the experiences of heterosexual therapists working with lesbian, gay, bisexual, and queer clients. The study highlights the limited dialogue in this area and calls for further exploration of the experiences of sexual minority clients in person-centered therapy. Another abstract focuses on the challenges and opportunities faced by counselors with ADHD in their practice. The research aims to improve understanding of how a counselor's ADHD diagnosis can impact their person-centered practice. The study explores the experiences of counselors with ADHD through qualitative interviews and identifies themes such as attention deficits, impulsive disclosures, emotional dysregulation, increased curiosity, and unconditional positive regard. The findings suggest that acceptance and support for counselors with ADHD within the profession can be encouraged and fostered through this understanding. Lastly, the document introduces a humanistic training activity called "Internal Dialogue Method" and explores the experiences of the participants. The method is based on the philosophy of existentialism and humanistic integration. The text explains the goals, steps, and role of the facilitator in the Internal Dialogue Method. It also analyzes the dialogue of five participants to explore their experiences during the conversation. The analysis identifies three main themes: integration of existential modes from experience, theory, and dialogue; [Extracted from the article]

Lesbian, gay, bisexual and queer people (LGBQ; a sexual minority social group) access counseling and psychotherapy more frequently than heterosexual people, often working with heterosexual therapists (a sexual majority social group). Heterosexual therapists working with LGBQ clients is under-researched which means limited dialogue exists describing a significant yet sensitive area of sexuality difference where therapist and client hold diverging social experiences. To facilitate awareness development in person-centered therapy and beyond, the paper seeks to challenge such limited dialogue, stimulating discussion through considering how four heterosexual person-centered therapists experience working with LGBQ clients. This qualitative research project was designed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis as its methodology to explore the experiences of four heterosexual person-centered therapists who work with LGBQ clients. Findings centered upon four themes: shaping and forming, ways of seeing, witnessing clients and relationships with person-centered theory. The discussion considered the data in dialogue with person-centered theory, explored phenomenological therapy practice, intersectionality, power, and witnessing client experiences of social discrimination, and evaluated the non-pathologizing therapeutic potential that person-centered phenomenological practice holds for working with LGBQ clients. For theory development, the paper calls for further person-centered discourse exploring LGBQ experiencing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The role of media representations of transgender people in ameliorating attitudes towards transgender people and related policies has recently aroused attention. Since real-life transgender contact is rather seldom for most people, positive media representations may stimulate the formation of parasocial relationships, resulting in more supportive attitudes and policies, and thus less prejudices and discrimination. Current studies predominantly focus on entertainment narratives, approach attitudes towards transgender people one-dimensionally, and have shown interpersonal transgender contact is a predictor. This online cross-sectional study (N = 388, Mage = 32.34, SD = 10.76) contributes to the literature by examining the indirect relationship between evaluation of news coverage on transgender celebrities' coming out and policy support through transphobia and transnegativity, and the moderating role of interpersonal transgender contact. Findings indicated that a positive news coverage evaluation, rather than mere exposure, relates to more policy support directly and indirectly via lower transphobia and lower transnegativity. Interpersonal contact strengthened the association between transphobia and policy support, but did not moderate the indirect associations. Taken together, the results point to the importance of disentangling transgender attitudes into transphobia and transnegativity, and highlight the parasocial role of a positive news coverage evaluation in enhancing attitudes and policy support. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the Philippines, rising incidences of harassment directed at Filipinos who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer, and intersex (LGBTQI+) are part and parcel of the systemic prejudice and discrimination based on an individual's sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression (SOGIE). In the absence of a national anti-discrimination legislation, the burden to confront SOGIE-based harassment (SBH) rests upon the LGBTQI+ community and their allies. In-depth interviews with five (5) Filipino university students foreground how those with salient distinct identities from targets of harassment surfacedg hesitations and barriers to successfully intervening (e.g. cisgender and heterosexual bystanders vis-à-vis LGBTQI+ targets of harassment), while bystanders who associate with victims of SBH, either by acknowledging them as friends or as fellow human beings, articulated substantial motivation and greater ease in intervening. Taken together, the recognition of shared identities in others — or kapwa—fosters bystander intervention as it counteracts the inhumane treatment targeted at LGBTQI+ individuals whom the bystander considers equal and no different from them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It can hardly be denied that Freud's conceptualization of the Oedipus complex and its dissolution reach their limits once the analytical couple is positioned beyond the heteronormative matrix, e.g., when a heterosexual analyst and a homosexual patient come together in the analytical room. This raises the question of how Oedipal conflicts take shape and can be worked through when neither the sexual desire nor the gender of the analytical couple seem to be a matching "fit". Taking a gender-sensitive perspective, this article develops the Freudian conceptualization of the Oedipus complex in terms of a homosexual dimension, with the aim of making a fruitful contribution to the clinical practice. Drawing on a case vignette from an ongoing psychoanalytical treatment with a homosexual male patient, the unique dimensions of the transference-countertransference relationship are first illuminated and discussed. It is then argued that there is the need for a fundamental analytical openness and capability for an "inner sexual diversity" beyond heterosexual structures of love and desire; a necessity that, despite Freud's heterosexual and binary signature, can not only be deduced but is actually being invited by Freudian theory itself. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies of the connection between methamphetamine use and sex have tended to focus on gay men or men who have sex with men. Drawing from semi-structured interviews with 40 cisgender heterosexual women who used methamphetamine in rural Missouri, we investigate the multiple ways in which sex played into their market navigations. Our findings reveal the nuances of sexual agency within patriarchal structural constraints. We use and expand upon a queer criminological framework to investigate the intersecting gendered and sexualized expectations that cisgender heterosexual men imposed on women. Our study reveals how compulsory heterosexuality shapes behavior within the rural methamphetamine market. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectification theory predicts that women's self‐objectification should lead to sexual dysfunction, yet previous studies failed to provide consistent support for this prediction. The present research—which used two sufficiently powered samples and a self‐objectification measurement (SOBBS) with improved psychometric qualities and content validity than previous measurements—found support for the expected association between self‐objectification and sexual dysfunction among heterosexual women in Israel and the United States (N = 404 and 366, Mage = 30.59 and 36.93, respectively). We also examined two novel potential mediators of this association, entitlement for pleasure and sexual agency (i.e., the capability to express sexual desires and boundaries), and found that the latter mediated the link between self‐objectification and sexual dysfunction. The mediators originally proposed by objectification theory (i.e. appearance anxiety, body shame, awareness of internal body states and flow) failed to mediate this link. Theoretical and methodological implications are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Normative beliefs around gender and sexuality place individuals in the Two Spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, and queer (2SLGBTQ) community at risk for poorer health outcomes within the health care system compared with their heterosexual and cisgender counterparts, particularly within gendered areas of care including family planning and fertility intentions. The purpose of this research was to explore the effect that the normative beliefs of heteronormativity and cisnormativity had on the experiences of 2SLGBTQ people engaged in family planning, and to begin to understand how health care providers can provide appropriate, safe, and holistic care. Methods: We conducted a qualitative study using case study methodology and completing semi-structured interviews with 11 participants with diverse genders and sexualities. Findings: For members of the 2SLGBTQ community, family planning is greatly affected by ideals of normal, intersections of identities, health care systems, and community. They may face additional emotional labor and intentional decision-making when related to family planning. Heteronormativity and cisnormativity greatly impact the health care that is received. Conclusions: The findings contribute information in the limited field of research related to the 2SLGBTQ community and may support health care providers in providing holistic care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heterosexual university students continue to endorse sexual scripts that preference men's desire and sustain gendered power imbalances in sexual relationships and encounters, leading women to risk pregnancy by engaging in unprotected sex. Because young women also endorse norms encouraging them to protect themselves and their partners from unintended pregnancy, women are caught in a bind between two often competing norms. We conducted semi-structured individual interviews with university women (n = 45) to examine how they navigate these competing norms. We found that women explained risky contraceptive decisions by saying they "just weren't thinking," thus employing strategic ambiguity, or vague language used to maintain social status, to navigate between competing norms. Our findings suggest that women were actually thinking about risks and making calculated decisions in the moment which often privileged men, putting themselves at risk and sometimes causing distress. To save face, women presented the idea that they "just weren't thinking" in different ways that conformed to traditional notions of romance and sexuality: being in the moment, love and trust for their partner, and deferring to the perceived or actual wishes of men. We conclude that there is a need to promote and achieve affirmative sexuality which includes women feeling empowered to express their own sexual needs -- whether that be consent or refusal, contraception, pleasure, or all of these. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The process of coming out as gay, lesbian, or transgender parents is just one of the available options. In general, many individuals in the LGBTQ+ community choose to keep their sexual identity private to avoid potential challenges for their children, such as bullying in schools. This is particularly common in stepfamilies or in previous heterosexual unions, where concealing their sexual orientation may be more comfortable. They can present themselves as separated parents, which is commonly assumed to be heterosexual, and the sexual orientation of parents is usually not investigated before their children enter school. Given this uncertainty, this study aims to identify the triggering factors of school bullying related to parents' sexual identity, analyzing their interaction as a neutrosophic set and modeling it through neutrosophic statistics. The conclusions suggest that the government should consider reforming existing policies for the benefit of transgender parents' children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines the various labels ascribed to males in the heterosexual discourse among female undergraduates in Nigeria. Insights from Community of Practice and Sexual Script Theory were used to demonstrate the use of situated linguistic choices to establish the differentials in male sexual behaviours. Data for the study were generated through participant observation and unstructured interviews with the aid of audiotape recordings and field notes. The study involves a representative sample of 22 female undergraduates who served as participants and research assistants. The findings reveal that situated language practices stimulate heterosexual discourses where female undergraduates creatively ascribe labels to the different males' sexual scripts. The labels include those related to male sexual performance, body size and size of sex organs, financial and marital status, familial and gatekeeping roles, and other routine sexual behaviours shown by men in sexual phases such as advances, arousal and intercourse. The scripts are also combined to re-enact the peculiar sexual narratives by the female students that show emerging sexual orientations. It is believed that the categorisation of such males' sexual behaviours in the University social contexts, would provide a basis for comparison with the sexual practices of other young adults' social groups across the globe. The paper discusses the various strands of sexual scripts shown by men in their heterosexual relationships with female undergraduates in a Nigerian University. The students ascribed labels based on the sexual performance, economic and marital status, and other routine behaviours that have an impact on the male sexual lifestyle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to expand the empirical research on Black women's sexualities by exploring differences in heterosexual and queer Black women's sexual experiences including sexual pleasure, orgasms, masturbation, number of sex partners, and sexual desire through a Black queer feminist lens. This study used survey data from n = 295 Black cisgender women from phase one of the triphasic Big Sex Study. Results showed that Black queer women had more sexual partners and reported masturbating at earlier ages compared to heterosexual women. Black queer women also reported higher pleasure ratings in sexual activities, sexual intimacy, and sexual intercourse. Finally, there were differences in correlates of sexual desire between heterosexual and queer women; however, no factors were correlated with desire to engage in sexual intercourse for power and control for both groups of women. Implications for advancing sex positive research on sexually diverse Black women are included. Black women's sexology has often focused on sexual risks and heterosexual women. This study focuses on sex positive aspects including sexual pleasure, orgasms, and desire among Black heterosexual and queer women. Results showed that queer women were more likely to have higher pleasure rankings and had different correlates of desire. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article examines the history of sexuality during the time of slavery in the United States, with a focus on the experiences of enslaved women and the sexual violence they endured. The author argues that the history of sexuality should include the role of slavery and its use of sexual exploitation as a means of control. The text explores the theories of sexuality developed by enslaved people, the limited possibilities for sexual autonomy and consent, and the impact of slavery's sexual culture on both enslaved and free individuals. It also calls for a more comprehensive and inclusive approach to studying sexuality in the context of slavery and colonialism. [Extracted from the article]

Although suicide rates are stable or decreasing among White communities, rates are increasing among Black communities, a trend that appears to be disproportionately affecting Black lesbian, gay, bisexual, and queer (LGBQ) people. To understand the structural drivers and mechanisms of these trends, we examined associations between U.S. state-level racist and heterosexist criminal legal policies and policing, discrimination, and suicidality among White and Black, heterosexual and LGBQ, communities. We recruited 5,064 participants in 2021 using online census-driven quota sampling. Structural equation modeling estimated associations from objective indicators of racist and heterosexist criminal legal policies to self-reported police stops, discrimination, and suicidal ideation and behavior. For White heterosexual participants, racist (β = −.22, SE = 0.03, p <.001) and heterosexist (β = −.26, SE = 0.03, p <.001) policies were negatively associated with police stops. For White LGBQ participants, racist and heterosexist policies were not significantly associated with police stops. For Black heterosexual participants, racist (β =.30, SE = 0.11, p =.005), but not heterosexist, policies were positively associated with police stops. For Black LGBQ participants, racist (β =.57, SE = 0.08, p <.001) and heterosexist (β =.65, SE = 0.09, p <.001) policies were positively associated with police stops which, in turn, were positively associated with discrimination and suicidal ideation and behavior. Results provide evidence that racist and heterosexist state policies are linked to policing and interpersonal drivers of suicide inequities and suggest that repealing/preventing oppressive policies should be a suicide prevention imperative. General Scientific Summary: This study suggests that racist and heterosexist state policies protect against suicide risk for White heterosexual communities, but increase suicide risk among Black lesbian, gay, bisexual, and queer (LGBQ) communities. The results indicate these forms of structural oppression are protective for White heterosexual communities because they decrease the likelihood of police stops and discrimination. The same policies increase the likelihood of police stops and discrimination and, in turn, suicide risk for Black LGBQ communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The Sexual Inhibition/Sexual Excitation Scales-Short Form (SIS/SES-SF) is a brief instrument for assessing the propensity for sexual excitement and inhibition in men and women. The aim of the present study was to provide evidence for the validity and reliability of the Spanish version of the SIS/SES-SF scores by examining invariance, reliability (information function and internal consistency), the relationship between the scores and sexual functioning, and presenting its standard scores. Method: A total of 2,223 Spanish heterosexuals (43.41% men and 56.59% women) aged 18 to 83 years (M = 39.94, SD = 11.95), distributed across age groups (18-34, 35-49, ≥ 50 years old) participated. Results: The three-factor structure of the Spanish version of SIS/SES-SF showed weak measurement invariance by sex and strict measurement invariance by age. The scores explained the dimensions of sexual functioning, especially sexual arousal and erection/lubrication. In addition, men and women without difficulties in sexual functioning demonstrated more propensity for sexual excitation and less sexual inhibition. The standard scores are presented by sex and age group. Conclusions: The study provides evidence of the validity and reliability of the SIS/SES-SF measures, confirming its usefulness for assessing propensity to sexual excitation and inhibition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ability to effectively cope with stress is impacted by early relationship experiences and, thus, is related to attachment security. We examined how different forms of attachment insecurity (namely, attachment anxiety and attachment avoidance) impact romantic partners' capacity for coping with stress individually (via self-regulation) and together (via dyadic coping) in a community sample of 261 heterosexual couples. We also explored links between these coping strategies and measures of well-being. Multiple regression analyses in this cross-sectional, self-report study indicated that attachment avoidance, but not anxiety, was linked to less effective dyadic coping. In men, this was also the case for partner's attachment avoidance. Attachment anxiety, but not avoidance, was related to self-regulation problems for women, while in men, both facets of attachment insecurity were negatively associated with self-regulation. Individual and dyadic coping strategies each uniquely contributed to individuals' well-being and satisfaction with life. Relationship interventions and counseling processes might benefit from sensitizing clients for biographical influences on their coping strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to test the hypothesis that marital communication moderates the relationship between marital conflict resolution (predictor) and marital satisfaction (criterion) after controlling for marital stability and sexual relationship among heterosexual married individuals in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The results of the present study fully support the hypothesis that marital communication moderates the relationship between marital conflict resolution and marital satisfaction. Therefore, marriage counselors or other professionals working in marriage counseling must place a high priority on marital communication as an essential tool for marital conflict resolution and developing and maintaining a long-lasting satisfying marital relationship among married individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) persons tend to be geographically concentrated in larger metropolitan areas and research persistently observes LGB persons as a disadvantaged population for mental health outcomes when compared to their heterosexual counterparts. Conflicting evidence suggests that mental health risk exposures are greater for LGB people in rural spaces while other research posits that urban residency is more detrimental for LGB mental health. One positively contributing factor to the mental well‐being of LGB persons is their partnership status. To date, no study estimates how partnership may ameliorate unfavourable mental health outcomes for LGB populations in urban and rural areas. Using 10 years of pooled data from the nationally representative Canadian Community Health Survey (CCHS), this study examines mental health and the intersection of sexuality, geographic residency, and partnership. Logistic regression models estimate the intersections of sexuality, geography, and partnership status on mental health, stratified by respondents' gender. Findings show partnered gay men in rural areas experiencing better mental health than their partnered heterosexual counterparts in the largest urban cities. Although not significant, the same pattern is observed for partnered lesbian women who do not experience a significant mental health disadvantage at any geographic level. Regardless of partnership and geographic space, bisexual men, and especially bisexual women, exhibit worse mental health outcomes compared to their heterosexual counterparts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, I investigate the benefits and potential risks associated with utilizing participant observation to gain a deeper understanding of sexual identity. Specifically, my focus is on examining how young, heterosexual, middle-class, cisgender individuals in South Africa perceive and understand their heterosexual identities, exploring how privilege and heteronormativity shape their experiences. In my ethnographic study, I employed various qualitative data collection methods, including participant observation, to analyze how normative practices were negotiated and sustained in contemporary South Africa. As a feminist researcher, I reflect on the epistemological and methodological choices I made in the study, with reflexivity and positionality playing crucial roles in data collection and analysis. Drawing on experiences in three distinct social spaces in Johannesburg—high-end nightclubs, Tupperware-style sex-toy parties, and traditional braais [barbecues]—I examine the advantages and challenges of participant observation. This paper contributes to the broader discussion on the method's use, highlighting its potential to offer a nuanced understanding of a normalized phenomenon while acknowledging associated risks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study attempted to explore the challenges that are critical in the milestone toward relationship satisfaction of the solemnized same-sex couples in the Philippines and the strategies they utilized to minimize its detrimental effects on the relationship. A qualitative case-study approach was used to analyze the lived experiences of eight same-sex couples in marital-like relationships. Based on thematic analysis, disownment from the family of origin, financial stress, becoming parents, and issues of jealousy and infidelity are characterized as critical problems in their relationship. Although male and female couples reported shared common issues, it was suggested that male couples were more susceptible to sexual infidelity due to poor sexual satisfaction. These challenges in the relationship of the participants were not mere crises, but also factors that propel couples towards the satisfaction of their relationships. As to conflict resolution styles, same-sex couples show less belligerence and anger in handling issues in their relationship and express more positive affect and humor in resolving these issues. In conclusion, although same-sex and heterosexual couples share common relationship problems, it suggests that there is much commonality in the issues affecting all contemporary couples. That which most clearly distinguishes same-sex couples from their counterparts is the social context of their lives. While heterosexuals enjoy many privileges and support for their relationship, same-sex couples, on the other hand, are the object of social rejection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]