Search

Athletic spaces are often perceived as unwelcoming by sexual minority (SM) athletes, contributing to disparities in sports persistence in early adulthood. Further examination of how SM navigate decisions about sports participation during the transition to college is needed to develop and maintain inclusive campus athletic offerings, including recreational sports. By analyzing interview data from 23 SM college students, we found that SM find supportive athletic community through important vetting of these spaces prior to initiation. SM look at two aspects of a program's makeup—its' values and visible diversity of its members—through one's own personal "vibe check" either in-person or online. SM men in particular look for gender "outsiders," as all-male spaces threaten their perceived safety. Among those who had previously dropped out of sports, finding mixed-gender teams through this vetting process provided promise for an eventual return to sport, highlighting the importance of recreational sports in engaging underrepresented groups of athletes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

College years are a formative life stage; however, students who identify as a sexual minority participate in insufficient physical activity. This study examined differences in level of comfort 1) with/in campus recreation facilities overall, and 2) using specific amenities, by sexual orientation. Students at four public universities completed online surveys assessing perceived comfort using their campus recreation facility. Among participants (n = 160), Kruskal-Wallis analyses showed comfort using campus recreation facilities, free weights, non-intramural sports,and intramural sports was significantly higher among heterosexual students compared to sexual minority students (all p < 0.005). These findings highlight inequities in comfort using campus recreation facilities and provide evidence of the need for inclusive recreation spaces for all students regardless of sexual orientation. Future research is needed to assess LBGTQ+ student's health disparities related to campus recreation facility use and how to increase perceived comfort for all students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cabotegravir (CAB-LA), the only Food and Drug Administration-approved injectable pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), is effective and may address PrEP uptake disparities among Black and Latino sexual and gender minority (SGM) men. Uptake of CAB-LA may require developing innovative non-clinic-based care delivery strategies in home-based settings. We explored SGM men’s opinions on a future home-based CAB-LA PrEP care service to guide the adaptation of PrEP@Home, an existing home-based PrEP system for oral PrEP. Through 14 in-depth interviews with current or former SGM male participants in the PrEP@Home study, we explored the acceptability of a home-based injectable PrEP system and examined visit and communication-related preferences. All participants considered home-based CAB-LA care to be acceptable and 8/14 would utilize the system if available. Convenience and comfort with using a home-based system impacted the overall acceptance of the approach. Factors influencing acceptability included clinical teams’ affiliation with healthcare systems, a credentialed two-person team, and staff identity verification methods. Logistical preferences included communicating pre-visit patient instructions, allowing flexible scheduling hours, and the use of text, phone calls, or mobile app communication methods based on urgency. Conclusively, a home-based CAB-LA PrEP delivery system was acceptable among the interviewed SGM men, guiding its development and future implementation.Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03569813. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents results from a mixed methods study on discrimination and violence against lgbtq+ people conducted in the Emilia-Romagna region (Italy) in 2021–2022. The research is situated in a country without specific laws against hate crimes towards sexual and gender minorities, and where the production of applicable information is weak. Our analysis pursues two goals related to a gendered reading of physical/sexual violence and verbal harassment towards lgbtq+ people. The first has a descriptive nature: to estimate how the incidence of selected forms of interpersonal violence interacts with the sex/gender identifications of victimized people. The second goal – that shifts from description to interpretation – is about exploring different understandings of the sex/gender regime that emerge from the experiences of victimization reported. Results show that ‘engendering’ assumes rather different – although overlapping – meanings when it comes to interpreting homophobia or transphobia. Against the tendency to consider different gender perspectives as mutually exclusive or antagonistic, we propose that they should be considered complementary. The potentialities and limitations of a standardized method of research are also discussed in relation to attempts to account for discrimination and violence against lgbtq+ people adopting an intersectional gaze. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractBackgroundAimMethodsResultsConclusionLGBT individuals in Tunisia face discrimination and stigmatization due to prevailing socio-cultural and legal conditions which can negatively impact their mental health.This study examined the relationship between perceived stress, heterosexist experiences, and self-esteem in a sample of LGBT young Tunisians.We conducted an analytical cross-sectional study. Participants were recruited using a snowball sampling technique via social media. Heterosexism Harassment, Discrimination and Rejection Scale (HHRDS), Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), and Rosenberg Self-esteem Scale (RSES) were used as measurement instruments.A total of 73 young LGBT individuals were included. The multivariate analysis indicated that discrimination (β = 4.58, CI95% = [3.36, 5.81], p < 10−3) and self-esteem (β = −0.88, CI95% = [−1.09, −0.67], p < 10−3) were significant predictors for perceived stress. The moderation model revealed that self-esteem acts as a moderator in the relationship between discrimination and perceived stress (effect = −0.22; p = .02).The study emphasizes the importance of self-esteem in improving the mental health and well-being of the LGBT community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

University students are reporting increasing levels of psychological distress and suicidality. Consistent with the minority stress model, sexual minorities (SMs) are especially vulnerable; this is often heightened at religious universities that are nonaffirming of SM identities. We studied mental health and religiosity among 211 undergraduates at a religiously diverse, LGBTQ+ permitting, yet nonaffirming, university. SMs (n = 58) reported higher rates of suicidality (Z = -4.50, p < .001, ρ = .31) and psychological distress (t = 4.27, df = 209, p < .001, d = 0.66) than non-SMs. The correlation between intrinsic religiosity suicidality (ρ = -.16, p = .02) was not moderated by SM identity. Similarly, the correlation between intrinsic religiosity and psychological distress (ρ = -.18, p = .01) was not moderated by SM identity. Religious attendance correlated with higher rates of internalized homonegativity (ρ = .31, p = .02) and lower rates of identity superiority (ρ = -.36, p = .005) for SMs. These findings highlight the complicated relationship between SM identity and religiosity. This study underscores the importance of offering affirming religious spaces for SM individuals and providing increased psychological support for SM students at religious universities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Binge drinking disparities between sexual and gender minority (SGM) students and their heterosexual, cisgender peers are well-established. Data limitations have precluded understandings of whether the onset and progression of these disparities differ by grade. Additionally, little is known about whether and how SGM-related binge drinking varies across groups of students coincidingly defined by sexual orientation or gender identity (SOGI), race, and ethnicity. In the current study, we used a large, statewide sample of secondary school students in California to describe the prevalence of binge drinking among sub-groups of adolescents at the intersections of grade, race and ethnicity, and SOGI. METHODS: Data were from the 2017-2019 cycle of the California Healthy Kids Survey, one of the largest statewide cross-sectional surveys of secondary school students in the United States (n = 925 744). We described the grade-specific prevalence rates of past 30-day binge drinking by (1) grade level, (2) race and ethnicity, and (3) SOGI. Predicted probabilities estimated adjusted percentages of students' binge drinking by subgroups. RESULTS: SGM-related binge drinking differences were present early in secondary school. Several subgroups of SGM adolescents with minoritized racial and ethnic identities reported higher binge drinking rates relative to their same-grade, white, non-SGM peers. CONCLUSIONS: Prevention and intervention programs must consider developmentally- and culturally-informed strategies to most effectively promote health among minoritized students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

STUDY QUESTION How do adult transgender and gender diverse (TGD) people, who are infertile due to prior gender-affirming treatment, view their current infertility and their reproductive decisions made in the past? SUMMARY ANSWER In a time where sterilization was mandatory, transgender adolescents prioritized gender-affirming treatment over their future fertility and would make the same choice today despite emotional challenges related to infertility experienced by some. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Under transgender law in the Netherlands, sterilization was required for legal gender recognition until 2014, resulting in permanent infertility. The long-term consequences of this iatrogenic infertility in transgender adolescents who have now reached adulthood remain underexplored. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Qualitative study design based on 21 in-depth one-on-one semi-structured interviews. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS TGD people in a stage of life where family planning may be a current topic were eligible for participation. They all received gender-affirming treatment in adolescence prior to the legislation change in 2014. A purposeful sampling technique was used from participants of another ongoing study. Eleven people assigned female at birth and ten people assigned male at birth were included. Interview transcripts were thematically analysed using a modified version of Braun and Clarke's six steps theory. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Six main themes were generated: (i) personal considerations regarding fertility and fertility preservation in the past; (ii) external considerations regarding fertility and fertility preservation in the past; (iii) current vision on past considerations and decisions; (iv) Current experiences and coping with infertility; (v) future family building; (vi) advice regarding fertility and fertility preservation decision-making. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Selection, recall, and choice supportive bias may play a role in interpreting our results. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS This study highlights the importance of tailored counselling and comprehensive information on fertility preservation for transgender individuals, especially adolescents, undergoing gender-affirming treatment. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) N/A. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article reviews the design of a recently published randomized controlled trial (RCT) on immediate vs delayed access to genderaffirming hormones for transgender and gender-diverse (TGD) people and outlines key learning points that clinicians should know about how RCTs can and cannot contribute to advancing health equity for TGD people. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the National Institute of Aging's (NIA) push for inclusion of diverse older adults in clinical studies as of September 2024. Topics covered include the barriers of comorbidities' exclusion, age limits, concerns on vulnerable persons, and distrust of the healthcare system, and the needs to ensure representation and for appropriate analysis and research expertise in designing trials. Also noted is the NIA's support of initiatives to diversify the research workforce.

Current research on asexual youth is limited, especially in understanding the impact of their outness and the intersection of sexual orientation with gender minority identities. This study investigates the influence of outness on experiences of harassment, discrimination, violence, and the risk of non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) among asexual youth, with a focus on those with transgender and non-binary identities. Data for this study were obtained from the 2021 Ace Community Survey, an international online survey designed to assess the needs and health status of the Ace community, targeting respondents aged 13 and older. The analysis involved a subsample of 5574 respondents aged 13 to 24 (mean age = 19.28), including 2361 cisgender (mean age = 19.65), 1,195 transgender (mean age = 18.80), and 2,018 non-binary individuals (mean age = 19.13). The results revealed that experienceds of sexual violence, verbal aggression, and physical harassment and bullying not only correlated with but also completely mediated the relationship between outness and NSSI. Asexual transgender youth experienced heightened levels of discrimination and NSSI but demonstrated notable resilience against the negative effects of identity disclosure, highlighting complex dynamics of vulnerability and protection within these communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Suicide is a leading cause of death among youth in custodial settings. Prior research investigating risk factors for suicide among system-impacted youth fail to incorporate an intersectional framework to contextualize suicide risk among system-impacted girls of color. Profiles of risk for self-injurious thoughts and behaviors (SITBs) were investigated in a sample of 240 racially and ethnically diverse system-impacted girls (mean [SD] age = 14.5 [1.7] years, Hispanic/Latinx 49.6%, Black 37.1%). Participants completed self-report measures evaluating traditional risk factors for suicide (mental health symptoms, trauma exposure) as well as assessments of minority stress (eg, daily discrimination) and recent engagement in SITBs at baseline and 3-month follow-up. Latent profile analysis revealed 3 distinct profiles: low-risk, characterized by relatively low levels of suicide risk indicators (n = 102); high-risk internalizing, characterized by elevations in internalizing symptom indicators (n = 96); and high-risk comorbid, characterized by relatively high levels of suicide risk indicators (n = 42). Girls in the high-risk profiles reported more SITBs at baseline and 3-month follow-up than girls in the low-risk profile. Results suggest that indicators of suicide risk can be used to classify system-impacted girls into profiles that differ concurrently and prospectively on SITBs. Findings could be used to inform more accurate risk and referral assessments for system-impacted girls of color, whose SITB-related challenges may be overlooked or framed as criminal. These findings highlight the continued need for assessments evaluating multiple indicators of risk for SITBs in the juvenile legal system. System-impacted girls of color represent an understudied subset of youth at elevated risk for engagement in self-injurious thoughts and behaviors (SITBs). This study investigated profiles of risk for SITBs in a sample of 240 racially and ethnically diverse system-impacted girls of color (mean age = 14.5 years) utilizing frequently studied factors associated with SITBs, including mental health symptoms and trauma experiences along with understudied risk factors such as minority stress. The authors found that three distinct profiles of risk for SITBs: "Low-Risk," characterized by relatively low levels of suicide risk indicators (n = 102); "High-Risk Internalizing," distinguished by elevations in internalizing symptoms (n = 96); and "High-Risk Comorbid," defined by relatively high levels of internalizing and externalizing symptoms (n = 42). Participants in both high-risk groups had high levels of trauma, minority stress, and were more likely to identify as a member of a sexually minoritized group. We worked to ensure race, ethnic, and/or other types of diversity in the recruitment of human participants. We worked to ensure that the study questionnaires were prepared in an inclusive way. One or more of the authors of this paper self-identifies as a member of one or more historically underrepresented racial and/or ethnic groups in science. We actively worked to promote inclusion of historically underrepresented racial and/or ethnic groups in science in our author group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The LGBT People of Color Microaggressions Scale (LGBT‐PCMS) is a widely used measure of intersectional microaggression experiences among sexual and gender minority people of color. Although it is widely used—and increasingly used in adolescent and young adult samples—it is unknown whether the LGBT‐PCMS demonstrates similar measurement properties across subgroups of sexual and gender minority youth of color (SGMYOC). Among 4142 SGMYOC (ages 13–17) we found evidence for either partial or full scalar invariance (item loadings and intercepts were generally equal) across sexual orientation, race‐ethnicity, and gender identity groups for all three subscales. Specific patterns of invariance and noninvariance across groups, as well as implications for the use of the LGBT‐PCMS and its subscales among SGMYOC are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The project of engaging undergraduates in research methods courses is an outstanding challenge for social work educators. Anxiety about the subject is common, for both students and instructors. Further, students’ wariness may reflect historical trauma and their knowledge about the ways in which research has been used to oppress people of color; lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning, intersex, asexual or ally, and other sexual and gender minorities communities; and other marginalized populations. This teaching note offers reflections and experiences about developing an undergraduate social work research methods course that uses antioppressive pedagogies to create student-centered learning with experiential team-based activities and ongoing critique about the role of power and privilege in research. Specific teaching resources and strategies are shared. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Online dating and dating apps are meant to help sexual minorities find romantic partners, but they have also presented challenges and obstacles. Based on 27 in-depth interviews with lesbian, gay, and bisexual dating app users living in Taiwan, this exploratory study proposes the concept of hyperpersonal failure as a holistic framework for understanding these challenges. This framework specifies four types of failure, each corresponding to one element in the original hyperpersonal communication model: the failure to present oneself (online daters as the sender), the failure to meet conversational expectations (the channel), the failure to develop positive impressions of the targets (online daters as the receiver), and the failure to obtain responses (the feedback). The study also discusses how the affordances of online environments contribute to hyperpersonal failure. Overall, the framework has the potential to shed light on online dating in general, extending beyond the experiences of sexual minorities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Few studies have examined developmentally relevant sources of resilience, such as peer social support, among young sexual minority men (SMM) of color experiencing discrimination and mental health distress. To address this gap in the literature, we examined the role of peer social support in the association between discrimination and mental health distress in a sample of young SMM of color. Ninety-four cisgender young SMM of color (aged 16–29) were recruited through community-based organizations in the New York City metropolitan area as part of an effectiveness trial of a tailored Motivational Interviewing intervention. Participants completed a baseline survey that included measures of school/workplace ethnoracial discrimination, sexual orientation discrimination, peer social support, and symptoms of anxiety and depression. Results of multivariable models indicated some evidence of the stress-buffering effects of peer social support. School/workplace ethnoracial discrimination was negatively associated with symptoms of anxiety (B = −0.12, SE = 0.03, p <.001) and depression (B = 0.44, SE = 0.15, p =.005) among young SMM of color with lower levels of peer social support. Peer social support did not moderate the association between sexual orientation discrimination and either depression or anxiety. Findings provide some evidence of the protective role of peer social support. We discuss the implications of the results for practice with young SMM of color with mental health distress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

LGBTQ+ people experience higher burdens of life-limiting illnesses, poorer health outcomes, and multilevel barriers to accessing palliative, end-of-life, and bereavement care. High quality evidence is needed to inform interventions to address these inequities, and inform inclusive practices and policies. Despite global initiatives to improve availability of peer-reviewed journal articles, the minority of research is open access (OA). We aimed to evaluate accessibility of literature related to LGBTQ+ inclusive palliative, end-of-life, and bereavement care. A rapid review of the evidence regarding LGBTQ+ inclusive palliative, end-of-life, and bereavement care was conducted; OA status of identified articles was assessed. Articles from three published systematic reviews were included (2012, 2016, and 2020). Review articles were updated using the original search and inclusion/exclusion strategies. 66 articles related to LGBTQ+ inclusive palliative, end-of-life and bereavement care were identified between 1990-2022. Of these, only 21% (n =14) were OA. Of the OA articles, 79% were published between 2017 and 2022, and 50% were published between 2020-2022, reflecting more recent shifts towards OA publishing. Health and social care professionals and policy makers rely on access to high quality evidence to inform their work. Failing to make articles related to the needs of LGBTQ+ people and populations OA risks further marginalisation and worsened inequities. Innovative journal policies and funding are needed to enable access, particularly for research that foregrounds the needs of marginalised communities. Where articles are currently behind paywalls, there is a need for accessible summaries or policy briefs to inform inclusive policy and practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sexual minority men (SMM) living with HIV report significantly greater methamphetamine use compared with heterosexual and HIV-negative peers. Greater use may be related to stressors (e.g., HIV-related stigma) faced by SMM living with HIV and subsequent psychological and behavioral sequelae. We tested an integrated theoretical model comprised of pathways between stigma, discrimination, childhood sexual abuse, psychological distress, sexual compulsivity, and cognitive escape in predicting methamphetamine use among SMM living with HIV. Among 423 SMM living with HIV, we tested a structural equation model examining factors hypothesized to be directly and indirectly associated with methamphetamine use. Analyses were adjusted for demographic covariates and sampling bias. The model showed good fit (CFI = 0.96, RMSEA = 0.01). Heterosexist discrimination was associated with psychological distress (β = 0.39, p < 0.001) and psychological distress was associated with sexual compulsivity (β = 0.33, p < 0.001). Sexual compulsivity was associated with cognitive escape (β = 0.31, p < 0.001), which was associated with methamphetamine use (β = 0.51, p < 0.001). Psychological distress was associated with methamphetamine use via serial indirect effects of sexual compulsivity and cognitive escape (β = 0.05, p < 0.05). Heterosexist discrimination contributed to psychological distress among SMM living with HIV. Psychological distress is linked to methamphetamine use via sexual compulsivity and cognitive avoidance. Interventions seeking to reduce the likelihood that SMM living with HIV use methamphetamine should include coping strategies specific to heterosexism and related psychological distress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To summarize and critique research on the experiences and outcomes of sexual minority women (SMW) treated with surgery for breast cancer through systematic literature review. Methods: A comprehensive literature search identified studies from the last 20 years addressing surgical experiences and outcomes of SMW breast cancer survivors. Authors performed a quality assessment and thematic content analysis to identify emergent themes. Results: The search yielded 121 records; eight qualitative studies were included in the final critical appraisal. Quality scores for included studies ranged 6-8 out of 10. Experiences and outcomes of SMW breast cancer survivors were organized by major themes: 1) Individual, 2) Interpersonal, 3) Healthcare System, and 4) Sociocultural and Discursive. Conclusions: SMW breast cancer survivors have unique experiences of treatment access, decision-making, and quality of life in survivorship. SMW breast cancer survivors' personal values, preferences, and support network are critical considerations for researchers and clinicians. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated runners' experiences of public harassment and the association between gender and sexual orientation and harassment. We hypothesized that cisgender women and LGBQ+ individuals would report more harassment, fear of harassment, and behavioral changes than cisgender men and straight individuals. Adult United States runners (N = 1,645, primarily cisgender women) completed an online survey assessing lifetime and past-year experiences of harassment, fear, behavioral changes, and harassment attributions. Most participants (84.2%) reported at least one form of harassment while running (M = 3.55 types). Gender interacted with sexual orientation such that sexual minority cisgender women reported significantly more lifetime and past-year harassment than straight cisgender women (g s = 0.44–0.45). For fear and behavioral changes, only gender was significant, with cisgender women reporting more fear and behavioral changes than cisgender men (g s = 0.99–1.06). Cisgender women also were more likely than cisgender men to attribute the harassment to gender (ϕ =.70). LGBQ+ individuals reported significantly more attributions to sexual orientation (ϕ =.16) than straight individuals but not more fear or behavioral changes. This study, the largest investigation of harassment among runners, highlights the need for prevention campaigns to make public spaces safer for all runners. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To describe healthcare experiences and health outcomes among rural LGBTQ + individuals. Design: 2022 cross-sectional survey. Setting: Southern Illinois. Sample: 85 individuals. Measures: Demographics, sexual orientation and gender identity, healthcare experiences, health outcomes. Analysis: Experiences and outcomes were assessed vs orientation and identity. Distribution comparison was by t -test and chi-square, risk prediction by logistic regression, and significance assumed at P <.050. Results: By orientation, participants were: 35.3% gay, 16.5% lesbian, and 45.8% bisexual plus; and by identity they were: 49.4% cisgender, 25.9% transgender, and 24.8% other identity. Survey item responses ranged from 95%-99%. Compared to gay men, lesbians and bisexual plus individuals more frequently reported medical bill payment difficulty (58.3% and 57.9% vs 25.0%; P =.020) and more past month days of poor mental health (19.4 and 15.8 vs 10.6; P =.018). Compared to heterosexual and other identity, transgender individuals less frequently reported having a routine medical provider (72.7% vs 92.7% and 95.0%; P =.037) and more frequently reported past healthcare denial (45.5% vs 17.5% and 18.8%; P =.042). Current health was associated with medical bill payment ability (OR =.33, 95% CI =.13-.86) and respectful treatment by healthcare administrators (OR = 3.90, 95% CI = 1.34-11.35) and clinicians (OR = 3.82, 95% CI = 1.39-10.47). Significance of some findings likely limited due to sample size. Conclusions: Our data describes healthcare experience and health outcome disparities among rural lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and other sexual and gender minority individuals, and indicate that clinical experiences directly influence health outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The extant literature and anecdotal evidence suggest that blue-collar workers who are openly queer (an inclusive term for sexual and gender minorities) are among the most marginalized in the labour market. This article reports the results of a correspondence audit of hiring discrimination in entry-level positions in the Canadian blue-collar sector. Creating four fictitious job candidates with welding skills, 2000 applications were sent to openings across Canada. Applications were identical except for gender-specific first names and volunteer activities, which were designed to signal some applicants as queer and others as straight and cisgender. The straight cisgender male received the highest number of callbacks; almost twice as many as the queer male, who was the least favoured among the four candidates. There was no statistically significant difference in callback rates between the two female applicants by queer status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores the need for increased awareness, research, and policy changes regarding transgender issues in organizations. It emphasizes the historical and cultural context of transgender individuals, acknowledging the negative impact of colonization and Western views on gender and sex. The article highlights the importance of intersectionality and diverse perspectives in understanding transgender identities and experiences. It also discusses the limited research on trans experiences in organizations, particularly outside of the Anglosphere, and the challenges and discrimination faced by trans people in various countries. The article concludes by addressing the role of cisgender researchers in studying trans experiences and the need for genuine inclusion and representation of trans scholars in the field. The Special Issue aims to shed light on trans experiences in work and organizations and contribute to the limited scholarship on trans issues in organization studies. [Extracted from the article]

The number of people in exile is rising. Sexual and ethnic minority refugee and asylum-seeking people present with special needs. This study utilised a collective narrative participatory design to explore how storying collective ways of resisting the effects of trauma, amongst gay and lesbian forced migrant people of Black African and Asian backgrounds in an urban context (London, UK) can be constitutive of healing. To do this, purposeful sampling procedures were pursued. Data collection was through individual and group format story telling sessions. Both sessions were structured around a co-constructed metaphor 'Passport of Life'. Narrative analysis was employed to examine the data, co-shaped with participants. Findings indicate that participants' (collective) storytelling is crafted as a site for resistances to emerge and be re-affirmed. Resistance pathways are inextricably linked to participants' diverse subjectivities. Healing is constituted as a dynamic process, bound by narrated and physical configurations of spaces of togetherness, which have re-definitional, hope-inducing, and social justice properties. The results support the use of participatory and narrative means for expanding (untold) stories of overcoming and supporting opportunities for healing and redress amongst this population. Implications for policy making, research, and psychological practice are considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Growing research suggests that minority stress adversely affects relationship functioning among same-gender couples. However, studies have predominantly focused on concurrent, between-persons associations and neglected the relationships sexual minority people have with partners of other genders. We used multiwave longitudinal data from 200 young sexual minority women in relationships with cisgender men, cisgender women, and transgender or nonbinary individuals to assess between- and within-person associations between minority stress and relationship functioning and to test for differences in these associations by partner gender. Participants reported on minority stressors (couple marginalization; microaggressions; internalized heterosexism) and relationship functioning (quality; destructive conflict) from the same partnership at 3–7 assessments (M = 4.44), collected at 6-month intervals. Multilevel models assessing each minority stressor separately revealed between-person associations of each stressor with worse relationship quality and conflict; however, only couple marginalization showed within-person associations with relationship functioning. In multilevel models including all three minority stressors, couple marginalization showed unique within- and between-persons associations with worse relationship functioning; microaggressions were only uniquely associated with couple conflict at the between-persons level. Moderation analyses revealed a negative between-persons association of microaggressions with relationship quality only for participants with cisgender male partners, and a positive within-person association of microaggressions with relationship quality only for those with cisgender female partners. Several associations were weaker for participants with transgender or nonbinary compared to cisgender partners. Findings highlight the importance of couple-level minority stress and partner gender in understanding how sexual minority stress affects relationship functioning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Academic research is currently undergoing a wave of contestation, ranging from violent attacks and life-threatening situations to public undermining of their research and online threats and harassment. A variety of actors engage in hostile behaviors, including ordinary people as well as state institutions, and address scholars working in diverse disciplines and on diverse topics, such as climate change, vaccination, gender studies, colonialism and Islam studies. Recent research shows that female scholars, sexual and racialized minorities, and precarious researchers are the most likely target of online attacks. This contribution presents the results of a research project on academics facing online harassment in times of populism, drawing on data from an original survey to explore the ambivalences of academics' public engagement, the public role of universities, and, more broadly, the impact of current attacks on academic knowledge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The labels used to describe sexual and gender minorities in the U.S. have shifted over time and become increasingly inclusive. Movement organizations have changed from describing the "lesbian, gay, and bisexual" ("LGB") community to adding transgender ("LGBT") and then also queer ("LGBTQ") identities. Do these different labels affect public views of the group and support for their rights? I embedded a question wording experiment in a statewide survey, asking respondents about either LGB, LGBT, or LGBTQ people. The labels had no discernible effect on (1) support for requiring businesses to serve the group; nor (2) views of the group's political leanings. There is no evidence that ideology and partisanship moderated these null effects: liberals and conservatives, Democrats and Republicans, were unaffected by the changing designations. This suggests public attitudes are not contingent on how the LGBTQ community is labelled, a finding with implications both for movement organizations and survey researchers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study analyzes two waves of survey data from a prospective cohort study of secondary school students in Midwestern United States and shows that masculinity ideology contributes in varying degrees to dating violence perpetration across different gender and sexual orientation groups. Conformity to masculinity ideology not only elevates physical violence among bisexual male and lesbian youths, but also does it to a greater extent than its effect among heterosexual male youths. Gay youths, on the other than hand, report lower levels of physical violence perpetration with higher conformity to masculinity ideology. Conformity to masculinity ideology also precipitates higher levels of sexual violence perpetration among bisexual male and lesbian youths. Several policy implications for dating violence prevention are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives. To examine linear and nonlinear associations between psychosocial syndemic factors and HIV risk and engagement in HIV prevention care among sexual and gender minority (SGM) youths. Methods. Between February and October 2022, we recruited 17 578 SGM youths aged 13 to 18 years in the United States for an online survey. We examined the relationship of syndemics (i.e., binge drinking, drug use, sexual victimization, and anti–lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender discrimination) with sexual behaviors (i.e., sexual initiation, condomless anal or vaginal sex, and number of sexual partners) and HIV prevention care (i.e., HIV testing, preexposure prophylaxis awareness and utilization) using regression. Results. Psychosocial syndemic burden (number of syndemic factors reported) was linearly and cubically associated with engagement in sexual behaviors. Psychosocial syndemic burden was linearly associated with higher HIV testing and preexposure prophylaxis awareness and cubically associated with higher preexposure prophylaxis utilization. Conclusions. Our findings are evidence of synergism across psychosocial syndemic factors regarding HIV risk and engagement in HIV prevention care among SGM youths in the United States. Public Health Implications. Multicomponent interventions may help reduce HIV risk and promote access to HIV prevention services among SGM individuals aged 13 to 18 years. (Am J Public Health. 2024;114(9):892–902. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2024.307753) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to analyze the association between internalized homophobia and its domains and depression in homosexual and bisexual individuals and to quantify its results in depression. This is a cross-sectional online and anonymous study based on the LGBT+ health study conducted in Brazil from August to November, 2020, summing 926 respondents. Depression was self-reported. Internalized Homophobia was measured by the Brazilian Internalized Homophobia Scale for Gays and Lesbians, using 80% percentile to classify elevated total and by domain scores. Statistical analysis was based on Poisson Regression models with robust variance. Depression prevalence was 23.7%. The results revealed that internalized homophobia was positively associated with depression only among homosexuals (Prevalence Ratio (RP) = 1.80; 95% confidence interval (95%CI) 1.12-2.90). We found no statistical association for stigma and oppression domains. Population attributable fraction of depression was 2.3% (95%CI 0.1-4.5) in relation to internalized homophobia. Our findings highlight the need of controlling internalized homophobia to decrease the prevalence of depression among homosexuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Chinese gay men face substantial stress, such as internalized homonegativity, and may have high levels of demoralization syndrome. However, few studies have examined the relationship between the two. This study aimed to investigate the relationship and the mediating mechanism between internalized homonegativity and demoralization syndrome in Chinese gay men. Methods: From March to May 2022, 319 Chinese gay men were recruited nationwide through the Internet (mean age = 23.99, SD = 4.23). The researchers used the internalized homonegativity scale, the sexual orientation concealment scale, the sense of self scale, and the short version of the demoralization scale for the measurements. Results: Sense of self plays a mediating role between internalized homonegativity and demoralization (standardized estimate = 0.104, 95% CI [0.004, 0.205]). Sexual orientation concealment and sense of self play a sequential mediating role between internalized homonegativity and demoralization (standardized estimate = 0.178, 95% CI [0.113, 0.258]). Internalized homonegativity contributes to increased demoralization among gay men through the increment of sexual orientation concealment and the reduction of sense of self. Conclusions: Internalized homonegativity may be a risk factor for demoralization syndrome among Chinese gay men. Internalized homonegativity is associated with increased demoralization syndrome through increased sexual orientation concealment and decreased sense of self. Policy Implications: Policymakers can formulate some corresponding laws, such as ensuring that sexual minorities are treated equally with heterosexuals in terms of studying and finding jobs in order to reduce the sources of internalized homonegativity formation and the symptoms of demoralization syndrome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Gender and sexual minority adults have significant unmet mental health care needs and are often faced with barriers to accessing appropriate services. In this context, LGBTQ individuals often turn to each other for mental health support. Methods: In a sample of 326 LGBTQ adults (M age = 37.64) who were providing mental health support to their LGBTQ peers, we examined the nature of LGBTQ peer support, including who provides peer support, to whom, and for what issues. We also examined the experiences of those providing LGBTQ peer support, and the role of mental health training. Data were collected in 2020. Results: Participants provided support to a range of individuals, including close friends, colleagues, and those who were previously strangers. The types of concerns they supported their peers with varied greatly, though depression, anxiety, suicidality, and coping with discrimination were common concerns. Participants were often managing multiple competing demands, and many appeared to be managing their own mental health concerns. Those who had received at least some mental health training appeared to fare better in their experiences of providing peer support compared to those without such training. Policy Implications: Findings illustrate the importance of increasing access to LGBTQ-affirmative mental health services. We also highlight the importance of developing and disseminating initiatives designed to support those providing LGBTQ peer support, both to increase the effectiveness of peer support and to help manage the impact of providing LGBTQ peer support. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: People who belong to a sexual and gender minority often face prejudices that have their roots in heterosexism, a sociocultural system that can manifest itself in different ways and sometimes in a seemingly benevolent fashion. The present study examined the psychometric properties of the Multidimensional Heterosexism Inventory (MHI), a scale assessing aversive, amnestic, paternalistic, and positive stereotypic heterosexism, in an Italian sample. Methods: Two hundred one cisgender and heterosexual individuals (129 women and 72 men) aged 18 to 81 years (M = 36.42, SD = 12.56) were recruited online between May and October 2022 and answered questions about social dominance orientation, right-wing authoritarianism, ambivalent sexism, and attitudes toward lesbians and gay men. Results: Confirmatory factor analysis showed that the original 4-factor model of the scale fit the data well. Predictive and convergent validity of the Italian version of the MHI was adequate, whereas discriminant validity was not fully achieved due to overlap of multidimensional heterosexism with hostile and benevolent sexism and authoritarianism. Scores were higher for aversive and amnesic heterosexism in men than in women, but not for paternalistic and positive stereotypic heterosexism. Finally, less educated participants, those with no LGBTQI + friends, and religious participants were higher in all MHI subscales than their counterparts. Conclusions: This study provides the first evidence for the validity and reliability of an Italian version of the MHI. Policy Implications: Using the MHI can help to make visible not only the explicit but also the subtle forms of heterosexism, thus recognizing the multidimensional nature of heterosexism produced in social institutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Individuals in sexual minority groups experience unique forms of stress and are at increased risk of mental health problems compared to their heterosexual counterparts; however, research is scarce on the underlying mechanisms that contribute to this relationship. The present study aimed to explore the mediating effects of irrationality and self-compassion in the relationship between minority stress and anxiety and depressive symptoms. Methods: Between March 2022 to June 2022, we recruited online a sample of 304 Romanian adults who identified as sexual minorities (Mage = 22.65, SD = 5.23). They completed questionnaires that addressed minority stress, irrational beliefs, self-compassion, and symptoms of anxiety or depression. Results: The findings showed significant associations between minority stress, irrationality, self-compassion, anxiety, and depressive symptoms. Minority stress was related to anxiety and depressive symptoms both directly and indirectly, through two paths (a self-compassion path and an irrationality and self-compassion path). Conclusions: Our results indicated that self-compassion and irrationality are serial mediators in the relationship between minority stress and anxiety and depressive symptoms. Policy Implications: These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of how minority stress is related to anxiety and depressive symptoms and provide important guidance to reduce psychological distress in sexual minority young adults. Furthermore, it has important implications for developing prevention and intervention programs designed for sexual minorities individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: It is well-documented that sexual minority youth are at a higher risk of experiencing being thrown away and running away from their parental home, the two main pathways to youth homelessness. These challenges are often related to family rejection and strained child-parent relationships. However, little knowledge exists of how sexual minority status intersect with race/ethnicity in this context. Methods: The study utilized data from Wave III (2001–2002) of the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health (Add Health) (1994–2018) with a sample size of 14,181 survey participants to examine the effects of sexual minority status and race/ethnicity on the experience of youth being ordered to move out and running away from one's parental home. Results: A series of regression analyses revealed that sexual minority youth were more likely to experience being thrown away and running away from their parental home. Furthermore, the findings showed significant intersectional disparities from sexual minority status and Black race in experiences of being thrown away and running away even after controlling for various sociodemographic, family circumstances, and other risk factors. Black sexual minority youth faced heightened risks of parental home displacement, indicating increased vulnerability within sexual minority youth. Conclusions: The study provides the first large-scale, nationally representative population-based evidence for the unique risk that Black sexual minority youth are facing with respect to the two pathways to youth homelessness. Policy Implications: Families with sexual minority youth and youth experiencing homelessness may benefit from racially/ethnically specific and sexuality-specific interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Sexual and gender minority youth (SGMY) often report more experiences of rejection from their family environment which is typically linked with negative implications for their overall well-being. A factor frequently associated with increased rates of psychological distress and rejection from others is that of possessing a nonconforming gender expression. Family rejection is often categorized under the umbrella of minority stress theory; however, initial conceptualizations of minority stress theory did not account for other factors such as gender expression and cisnormativity and how these impact SGMY especially within the realm of family rejection. Methods: In April of 2020, 150 adolescents who identified as a sexual or gender minority were recruited via Qualtrics Survey platform. Participants completed a series of self-report measures on demographics, minority stress, psychological distress, and their family environment's views of gender identity and expression. Results: We observed significant correlations connecting family rejection of gender expression to anxiety and depression and minority stressors. Moreover, family rejection of gender expression accounted for additional variance in anxiety but not depression. Neither family rejection nor support of gender expression moderated the relationships between minority stress with anxiety or depression. Conclusions: These findings suggest that gender expression plays a role in experiences of family rejection and overall minority stress. Policy Implications: Results illustrate implications for extending our thinking of family support beyond the binary categories of acceptance and rejection of queer identity. This can assist in informing policy on best practices for creating supportive environments for SGMY to help alleviate distress caused by lack of family support. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explored the experiences of lesbian, bisexual, and queer (LBQ) students' (N = 9, aged 19–24) of sexual harassment via semistructured interviews. Data were analysed using a thematic analysis. Three overarching themes emerged: (a) the paradox of men's unwanted sexual attention, (b) the negative impact on relationships, and (c) the LGBTQ* community as a refuge. The women reported enduring unwanted heteronormative sexual attention, and heterosexist and homophobic harassment which forced some to conceal their sexuality. Support for the LGBTQ* community was central in developing confidence to call-out harassment. The findings call for the inclusion of LBQ-specific messages in sexual violence awareness and prevention interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Psychosocial distress negatively impacts coping and adaptation among young men (aged 18 to 44 years) who have sex with men (YMSM) with, or at risk of acquiring, HIV. However, the stressors and risky behaviors associated with psychosocial distress that impair viral suppression have not been clearly explicated. The current scoping review was conducted to explore the extant literature and identify research gaps. Method: PubMed and CINAHL were searched for peer-reviewed publications, with a total of eight articles meeting inclusion criteria. Results: Stressors that contributed to psychosocial distress included HIV+ status, stigma, discrimination, insufficient resources, exposure to community violence, and incarceration. Risky behaviors impacting viral suppression were condomless anal sex, drug use, and medication nonadherence. Conclusion: Understanding and addressing psychosocial distress is imperative for providing holistic care tailored to the unique health care needs of YMSM. A better understanding of stressors and associated risky behaviors will aid efforts to mitigate psychosocial distress and reduce viral load among YMSM. [Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 62(9), 11–17.] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractCan Russian antigenderist discourse constitute an illiberal soft-power potential for the Russian government even in a West European state such as Norway? We define ‘antigenderist discourse’ as discourse rejecting equal rights, visibility or the very existence of all or some sexual and gender minorities. Despite some important differences regarding content and actors, both Norwegian and Russian media contain discourses where the freedom to be conservative, children’s safety and identity collectives, such as nation states, are constructed as being under attack from ‘gender ideology’, an umbrella term used by some conservatives for liberal ideas on sexual and gender minorities. This discursive overlap gives Russia some soft-power potential over antigenderist circles in Norway, but this potential appears weakly realised in practice, as the Norwegian texts examined here contain few explicitly positive references to Russian antigenderist policies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite increased scholarly attention being paid to minority stress and sexual satisfaction among sexual minorities, to our knowledge, no researchers have attempted to systematically synthesize this literature. To address this omission, we conducted a meta-analytic review of the association between sexual minority stress (i.e. sexual identity stigma, internalized sexual identity stigma, and sexual identity concealment) and sexual satisfaction. Suitable studies were recruited through electronic databases, with article screening adhering to PRISMA guidelines. Twenty-eight articles containing 61 effect sizes were analyzed (N = 183,832). Findings indicated a small, inverse relationship between these constructs, indicating that minority stress may lead to diminished sexual satisfaction among gay/lesbian and bisexual individuals. Further, the overall effect size varied as a function of minority stress type, such that the effect for internalized stigma was significantly larger than the effects for sexual identity stigma or concealment. Age was also a significant moderator; specifically, older age was associated with a smaller effect, suggesting that older adults may be better than younger adults at coping with minority stress. Limitations and directions for future research are discussed. We also articulate the implications of these findings vis-à-vis the health and wellbeing of sexual minorities and suggest that clinicians should target internalized stigma in their treatment of sexual concerns among members of this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]