1
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Lin PC, Chang YP, Chen YL, Yen CF. Mediating effect of loneliness on the associations of perceived and internalized sexual stigma with suicide in gay and bisexual men. J Formos Med Assoc 2024:S0929-6646(24)00398-X. [PMID: 39242223 DOI: 10.1016/j.jfma.2024.08.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2024] [Revised: 07/03/2024] [Accepted: 08/23/2024] [Indexed: 09/09/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE Loneliness is prevalent among gay and bisexual men (GBM). This study evaluated the mediating effect of loneliness on the associations of perceived sexual stigma (PSS) and internalized sexual stigma (ISS) with suicide in 400 GBM. METHODS A moderated mediation model was used to test the mediating effects of loneliness between the associations of PSS from family members and ISS with suicide and the moderating effects of sexual orientation, age, and education level on the mediating effects. RESULTS The results indicated that both PSS and ISS were positively associated with suicide through the full mediation of loneliness. The association of ISS with loneliness was stronger in older GBM. CONCLUSIONS Intervention programs promoting changes in attitudes toward GBM are warranted to prevent the development of PSS and ISS, loneliness, and suicide in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Po-Chun Lin
- Department of Psychiatry, E-Da Hospital, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; School of Medicine, College of Medicine, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Ping Chang
- School of Nursing, The State University of New York, University at Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Yi-Lung Chen
- Department of Psychology, Asia University, Taichung, Taiwan; Department of Healthcare Administration, Asia University, Taichung, Taiwan.
| | - Cheng-Fang Yen
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Department of Psychiatry, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; College of Professional Studies, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, Pingtung, Taiwan.
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2
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Croteau TA, Morrison TG. The Relationship Between Sexual Minority Stress and Sexual Satisfaction: A Meta-Analytic Review. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2024:1-13. [PMID: 39207056 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2024.2390092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
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.
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Affiliation(s)
- Terri A Croteau
- Department of Psychology and Health Studies, University of Saskatchewan
| | - Todd G Morrison
- Department of Psychology and Health Studies, University of Saskatchewan
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3
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Krok A, Kardasz Z, Rogowska AM. Network Analysis of the Association between Minority Stress and Activism in LGB People from Poland. Eur J Investig Health Psychol Educ 2024; 14:1853-1867. [PMID: 39056637 PMCID: PMC11276398 DOI: 10.3390/ejihpe14070122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2024] [Revised: 06/14/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: This paper presents an analysis of the associations between minority stressors and activism in the population of lesbian, gay, and bisexual individuals in Poland. (2) Methods: The cross-sectional online-based research was conducted among 192 lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) people in two groups: activists (n = 51) and people not engaged in activism (n = 141). Four scales of the Sexual Minority Stress Scale were used: Internalized Homophobia, Expectation of Rejection, Concealment, and Sexual Minority Negative Events Scale. Activism was measured using the Activism Scale and a single item asking about belonging to an activist group. (3) Results: Activists, lesbians, and gays scored significantly higher in the Sexual Minority Negative Events than people not involved in activism and bisexual individuals. Attitude toward LGBT+ activism correlated weakly and positively with Sexual Minority Negative Events and Expectation of Rejection while negatively with Internalized Homophobia. The Network Analysis showed that positive attitudes toward LGBT+ activism, the expectation of rejection, and negative events in minority stress are the most influential variables in the network model, playing a crucial role in the interaction between particular dimensions of minority stress. (4) Conclusions: Prevention and intervention programs should focus on reducing minority stress, especially negative events and rejection, especially among lesbians, gays, and people engaged in LGBT+ activism. The cooperation of politicians, lawyers, social workers, and psychologists is required to decrease homophobia and the stigmatization of people representing sexual and gender minorities.
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4
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Dubé S, Beaulieu N, Bergeron S, Lafontaine MF, Péloquin K, Brault-Labbé A, Gosselin P, Brassard A. Do perfectionism, body image concerns, and intimacy predict genitopelvic pain in the postpartum? A prospective study of new mothers. J Sex Med 2024; 21:566-572. [PMID: 38556646 DOI: 10.1093/jsxmed/qdae039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Genitopelvic pain following childbirth is common and likely to challenge the psychological, relational, and sexual well-being of new mothers. While genitopelvic pain generally decreases during the postpartum period, personal and interpersonal characteristics may explain why genitopelvic pain persists beyond the period of physical recovery in some mothers. Body image concerns, increased stress, and relationship challenges would be particularly salient during pregnancy and the postpartum period, which could put new mothers at greater risk of sexual difficulties. Also, mothers may display a negative appraisal regarding genitopelvic pain and doubt their ability to cope with it, which may contribute to the pain. AIM The current study aimed to examine the role of perfectionism, body image concerns, and perceived intimacy in the occurrence and change in genitopelvic pain in new mothers in postpartum. METHODS A total of 211 new mothers and their partners were recruited for a larger prospective dyadic study on the transition to parenthood. OUTCOMES Mothers completed a single item assessing genitopelvic pain, in addition to brief validated questionnaires measuring perfectionism, body image concerns, and perceived couple intimacy during pregnancy and at 4, 8, and 12 months postpartum. RESULTS Five multilevel modeling analyses revealed that adaptive perfectionism, maladaptive perfectionism, and body image concerns were associated with a higher occurrence of genitopelvic pain from 4 to 12 months postpartum. Mothers' and partners' perceived intimacy was not significantly related to new mothers' genitopelvic pain. None of the predictors modified the trajectory of genitopelvic pain over time. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS Raising awareness among health care professionals regarding the role of perfectionism and body image concerns in genitopelvic pain may help them identify new mothers at risk of chronic genitopelvic pain, while offering a new avenue of intervention. STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS There has been little research examining the role of perfectionism, body image concerns, and intimacy in postpartum genitopelvic pain. Based on a longitudinal prospective approach, this study identified perfectionism and body image concerns as significant predictors of postpartum genitopelvic pain. However, prepregnancy genitopelvic pain, genitopelvic pain intensity, and sexual distress were not measured. CONCLUSION Adaptive and maladaptive perfectionism and body image concerns are associated with new mothers' genitopelvic pain up to 12 months postpartum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandrine Dubé
- Department of Psychology, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1K 2R1, Canada
| | - Noémie Beaulieu
- Department of Psychology, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1K 2R1, Canada
| | - Sophie Bergeron
- Department of Psychology, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC H2V 2S9, Canada
| | | | - Katherine Péloquin
- Department of Psychology, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC H2V 2S9, Canada
| | - Anne Brault-Labbé
- Department of Psychology, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1K 2R1, Canada
| | - Patrick Gosselin
- Department of Psychology, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1K 2R1, Canada
| | - Audrey Brassard
- Department of Psychology, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1K 2R1, Canada
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5
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Hiemstra J, van Tuijl P, van Lankveld J. The associations of sexual desire, daily stress, and intimacy in gay men in long-term relationships. Int J Impot Res 2024; 36:248-255. [PMID: 36670284 DOI: 10.1038/s41443-023-00664-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Revised: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
We investigated the associations between daily stress, sexual desire and intimacy in gay men in long-term relationships. A daily diary method of data collection was used. Twenty-two adult participants completed brief questionnaires ten times per day during seven consecutive days. Multilevel regression analyses revealed significant negative associations of daily stress with sexual desire (p = 0.003); higher stress came with lower levels of sexual desire, and vice versa. The hypothesized moderation effect of the associations of stress with sexual desire by intimacy was found significant (p = 0.003). However, the effect was not as predicted: at higher levels of intimacy the negative effect of stress on sexual desire was shown to be stronger than at lower levels. Most temporal associations of stress and intimacy with sexual desire were not significant. Nevertheless, the present findings implicate that daily stress and intimacy are important factors in sexual functioning of gay men in long-term relationships.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Piet van Tuijl
- Department of Psychology, Open University, Heerlen, The Netherlands
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6
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Tornello SL, Smith RA. Sexual Minority Mothers: A Dyadic Exploration of Stigma, Identity, Support, and Parental Wellbeing. JOURNAL OF HOMOSEXUALITY 2024; 71:863-886. [PMID: 36264265 DOI: 10.1080/00918369.2022.2132580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
For all couples, regardless of sexual orientation, transition to parenthood often increases stress, although, according to minority stress theory (MST), same-sex couples often experience additional stressors specifically related to their sexual orientation. In this study of 34 same-sex female couples (68 sexual minority mothers) who conceived their children with the use of sperm donation, we explored the intrapersonal and interpersonal influences of sexuality-related stigma, sexual identity, sexuality disclosure ("outness"), and social support on the wellbeing of each partner among these couples. We found support for MST, although the process worked differently based on the mother's role. Among the pregnant (gestational) mothers, personal experiences of sexuality related stigma, social support, and sexual identity disclosure were all associated with their individual wellbeing. In contrast, among the non-pregnant (non-gestational) mothers, these associations were more interpersonal in nature. Specifically, the non-gestational mothers' wellbeing was unrelated to their personal experiences of sexuality stigma but was associated with their partner's (the gestational mother's) reports of sexual identity centrality and affirmation and support from friends. In all, we found support for MST, such that greater sexuality stigma was associated with poorer wellbeing, but this relationship functioned differently depending on the mother's role.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha L Tornello
- Human Development and Family Studies, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Rachel A Smith
- Communication Arts and Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, USA
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7
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Bohr J, Lengerer A. Partnership Dynamics of LGB People and Heterosexuals: Patterns of First Partnership Formation and First Cohabitation. EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF POPULATION = REVUE EUROPEENNE DE DEMOGRAPHIE 2024; 40:11. [PMID: 38502276 PMCID: PMC10951183 DOI: 10.1007/s10680-024-09697-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
In this study we examine partnership dynamics among people with different sexual orientations in Germany. More specifically, we explore the process of first partnership formation and first cohabitation among men and women who self-identify as heterosexual, homosexual or bisexual. Given the various discriminations against same-sex lifestyles, and the limited opportunities to meet potential partners, we assume that lesbian, gay and bisexual (LGB) people form partnerships later in life and less frequently than heterosexuals. We further expect that the constantly improving social and legal climate for sexual minorities will lead to a reduction in differences in partnership behaviour by sexual orientation. We use retrospectively reported partnership biographies from the German Socio-Economic Panel, which was supplemented in 2019 with a boost sample of sexual and gender minority households. Using discrete-time event history models, we analyse nearly 15,000 episodes of being single and nearly 20,000 episodes of living without a partner in the household. Around 4.5% of these episodes are from people who self-identify as LGB. The results clearly show that patterns of partnership and coresidential union formation differ by sexual orientation. People with a homosexual orientation-and to a lesser extent people with a bisexual orientation-are less likely to enter into a first partnership and a first cohabitation than people with a heterosexual orientation. Significant changes occur across cohorts: LGB people from younger birth cohorts enter (cohabiting) partnerships much earlier and more frequently than those from older cohorts. Thus, the union formation patterns of LGB and straight people have converged slightly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeanette Bohr
- GESIS - Leibniz Institute for the Social Sciences, Square B6, 4-5, 68159, Mannheim, Germany.
| | - Andrea Lengerer
- GESIS - Leibniz Institute for the Social Sciences, Square B6, 4-5, 68159, Mannheim, Germany
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8
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Nguyen J, Anderson J, Pepping CA. A systematic review and research agenda of internalized sexual stigma in sexual minority individuals: Evidence from longitudinal and intervention studies. Clin Psychol Rev 2024; 108:102376. [PMID: 38218122 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpr.2023.102376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 10/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2024]
Abstract
Internalized sexual stigma is a well-established risk factor for poor mental health among sexual minority individuals. However, there has been no synthesis of the literature pertaining to risk and protective factors that influence the development of internalized sexual stigma over time. This systematic review presents findings from 31 studies addressing this question (n = 9192); 23 studies examined psychosocial and sociodemographic predictors of internalized sexual stigma among sexual minority individuals, and eight studies tested the effects of psychological interventions on internalized sexual stigma. Longitudinal studies highlight the stability of internalized sexual stigma over time, and the role of stigma and discrimination, proximal minority stressors (e.g., outness, concealment), and psychological factors (e.g., depressive and anxious symptoms, coping styles, and demoralization) in predicting subsequent internalized sexual stigma. Demographic factors appear to play only a limited role in predicting subsequent internalized sexual stigma. Finally, most intervention studies found no significant effects in reducing internalized sexual stigma, with three exceptions finding significant intervention effects among young sexual minority individuals. We conclude by outlining a theory-driven model of internalized stigma and a research agenda to test more nuanced models of internalized stigma that include multifactorial risk indices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josh Nguyen
- Centre for Youth Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Joel Anderson
- Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health, and Society, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia; Institute for Positive Psychology and Education, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Christopher A Pepping
- School of Applied Psychology, Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia; Department of Psychology, Counselling and Therapy, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia.
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9
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Rahal D, Huynh VW, Irwin MR, McCreath H, Fuligni AJ. Everyday discrimination, emotion, and daily interactions during adolescence. JOURNAL OF RESEARCH ON ADOLESCENCE : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR RESEARCH ON ADOLESCENCE 2024; 34:141-158. [PMID: 38058247 PMCID: PMC11298793 DOI: 10.1111/jora.12899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Revised: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
The present study examined whether everyday discrimination relates to the frequency of adolescents' positive and negative daily social interactions and whether these associations are driven by anger and positive emotion. Adolescents (N = 334) participated in a three-wave longitudinal study, in which they completed surveys regarding everyday discrimination, anger, and positive emotion, as well as 15 daily reports of conflict and getting along with friends and family. Higher everyday discrimination was related to more daily conflicts and fewer experiences of getting along with other people. Longitudinal models also provided preliminary evidence that everyday discrimination was associated with daily conflicts 4 years later indirectly through anger. Overall, results suggest everyday discrimination relates to adolescents' daily experiences, potentially through differences in emotion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danny Rahal
- University of California, Santa Cruz, Department of Psychology, Santa Cruz, CA 95064
| | - Virginia W. Huynh
- California State University at Northridge, Department of Child and Adolescent Development, Northridge, CA 91330
| | - Michael R. Irwin
- University of California, Los Angeles, Cousins Center for Psychoneuroimmunology, Los Angeles, CA 90095
- University of California, Los Angeles, Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, Los Angeles, CA 90095
| | - Heather McCreath
- University of California, Los Angeles, David Geffen School of Medicine, Division of Geriatrics, Los Angeles, CA 90095
| | - Andrew J. Fuligni
- University of California, Los Angeles, Cousins Center for Psychoneuroimmunology, Los Angeles, CA 90095
- University of California, Los Angeles, Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, Los Angeles, CA 90095
- University of California, Los Angeles, Department of Psychology, Los Angeles, CA 90095
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10
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Huang MF, Chang YP, Chou WJ, Yen CF. A 4-year prospective investigation of predictive effects of prepandemic sexual stigma, affective symptoms, and family support on fear of COVID-19 among lesbian, gay, and bisexual individuals. Front Public Health 2024; 11:1297042. [PMID: 38259737 PMCID: PMC10800656 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1297042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Aim This prospective study examined whether prepandemic sexual stigma, affective symptoms, and family support can predict fear of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) among lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) individuals. Methods Data of 1,000 LGB individual on prepandemic sociodemographic characteristics, sexual stigma (familial sexual stigma [FSS] measured by the Homosexuality-Related Stigma Scale, internalized sexual stigma [ISS] measured by the Measure of Internalized Sexual Stigma for Lesbians and Gay Men, and sexual orientation microaggression [SOM] measured by the Sexual Orientation Microaggression Inventory), affective symptoms (i.e., depression measured by the Center for Epidemiologic Studies-Depression Scale and anxiety measured by the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory-State version), and family support measured by the Adaptability, Partnership, Growth, Affection, and Resolve Index were collected. Four years later, the fear of COVID-19 was assessed using the Fear of COVID-19 Scale and the associations of prepandemic sexual stigma, affective symptoms, and perceived family support on fear of COVID-19 4 years later were analyzed using multiple linear regression analysis. Results In total, 670 (67.3%) participants agreed and completed the follow-up assessment. Greater prepandemic FSS, ISS, SOM, affective symptoms, and perceived family support were significantly associated with a greater fear of COVID-19 at follow-up. Conclusion The identified predictors should be considered when designing interventions aimed at preventing and reducing the fear of COVID-19 in LGB individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei-Feng Huang
- Department of Psychiatry, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Ping Chang
- School of Nursing, The State University of New York, University at Buffalo, New York, NY, United States
| | - Wen-Jiun Chou
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical Center, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Fang Yen
- Department of Psychiatry, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- College of Professional Studies, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, Pingtung, Taiwan
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11
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Whitton SW, Sarno EL, Josza K, Garcia CP, Newcomb ME. Recruiting and retaining sexual and gender minority couples in intervention research: Lessons learned from trials of tailored relationship education programs. FAMILY PROCESS 2023; 62:932-946. [PMID: 37038919 DOI: 10.1111/famp.12880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Revised: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Relationship interventions, including healthy relationship education, couple therapy, and dyadic approaches to treating mental and physical health issues, hold promise for promoting relationship and individual health among sexual and gender minority (SGM) populations. Because SGM couples live within a context of societal stigma against their minority identities and relationships, they are likely to be best served by targeted, culturally sensitive relationship interventions that are affirming, free of hetero- and cis-normativity, and address the unique stigma-based challenges that they face. Therefore, a key goal for the field today is to conduct research evaluating and refining newly developed relationship interventions designed specifically for SGM couples. In this paper, we offer recommendations for effectively recruiting and retaining large, diverse samples of SGM couples for clinical trials of tailored relationship interventions, grounded in guidelines for psychological practice and conducting research with SGM populations. Throughout, we offer examples and lessons learned from our experiences conducting clinical trials of tailored SGM relationship education programs. We encourage the use of recruitment and retention strategies that involve members of the target SGM community from the outset, are informed by knowledge about SGM individuals and relationships, use currently preferred language for individual identities and relationships, attend to issues of confidentiality regarding sexual/gender identity or relationship involvement, and adhere to the norms of the particular community and recruitment venue.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Elissa L Sarno
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Kyle Josza
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Christopher P Garcia
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Michael E Newcomb
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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12
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Lin YJ, Chang YP, Yen CF. Predicting the Influences of Depression and Sexual Stigma on Motivation to Get Vaccinated against COVID-19 in Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Young Adults: A 4-Year Follow-Up Study. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:1430. [PMID: 37766107 PMCID: PMC10536742 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11091430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Vaccination is a crucial preventive measure against COVID-19. However, limited research has focused on identifying the factors predicting motivation to get vaccinated against COVID-19 (MoVAC-19) among lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) individuals. This study examined the predictive effects of depression and sexual stigma (i.e., perceived sexual stigma from family members, perceived sexual orientation microaggression, and internalized sexual stigma) before the COVID-19 pandemic on MoVAC-19 among LGB individuals 4 years later during the COVID-19 pandemic in Taiwan. Baseline data related to depression and sexual stigma were collected in 2018 and 2019. Depression was assessed using the 20-item Mandarin Chinese version of the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale. Perceived sexual stigma from family members was assessed using the Homosexuality-Related Stigma Scale. Internalized sexual stigma was assessed using the Measure of Internalized Sexual Stigma for Lesbians and Gay Men. Perceived sexual orientation microaggression was assessed using the Sexual Orientation Microaggression Inventory. Participant MoVAC-19 during the pandemic was assessed using the nine-item Motors of COVID-19 Vaccination Acceptance Scale. The associations of depression and sexual stigma at baseline with MoVAC-19 at follow-up were examined through multivariate linear regression analysis. Internalized sexual stigma was negatively associated with MoVAC-19, whereas perceived sexual orientation microaggression was positively associated with MoVAC-19. Depression and perceived sexual stigma from family members were not significantly associated with MoVAC-19. Although male sex and older age were positively associated with increased MoVAC-19, sex and age did not moderate the relationship between sexual stigma and motivation to get vaccinated. Among LGB individuals, sexual stigma experiences should be considered when developing intervention strategies aimed at enhancing MoVAC-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yen-Ju Lin
- Department of Psychiatry, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Ping Chang
- School of Nursing, The State University of New York, University at Buffalo, New York, NY 14214-8013, USA
| | - Cheng-Fang Yen
- Department of Psychiatry, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
- College of Professional Studies, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, Pingtung 91201, Taiwan
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13
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Gustafson KE, Manning WD, Kamp Dush CM. Emotional support among partnered sexual minority and heterosexual individuals during the COVID-19 pandemic. SOCIAL SCIENCE RESEARCH 2023; 114:102910. [PMID: 37597926 PMCID: PMC10492653 DOI: 10.1016/j.ssresearch.2023.102910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/21/2023]
Abstract
Emotional support, particularly support from family and friends, is essential to health outcomes especially for marginalized communities. Although emotional support is recognized as a critical resource, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, to date no research has examined access to support during the pandemic for sexual diverse populations. This study aims to apply minority stress theory by drawing on a new population-based data source of 3,642 respondents, the National Couples' Health and Time Study (NCHAT), which oversampled sexual and gender diverse populations during the pandemic. We focus on two sources of emotional support: family members and friends. Exclusively heterosexual respondents relied more on emotional support from family than respondents who identified as exclusively gay/lesbian, bisexual including pan, omni, and queer, and those reporting another sexual identity or multiple sexual identities. However, respondents who did not identify as heterosexual relied more on emotional support from friends compared to exclusively heterosexual respondents. There were no significant differences among respondents with sexual minority identities in regard to family or friend support. Other factors, such as outness to friends and family, identity centrality, aggressions, and relationship satisfaction are found to be associated support from friends and family. The findings presented here add to a growing body of work on social support while adding sexual minority-specific factors that may affect receipt of, need for, and outcomes relating to support. This work contributes to understanding of the social climate and resources available to sexual diverse populations during a major public health crisis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristen E Gustafson
- Department of Sociology and Center for Family and Demographic Research, Bowling Green State University, Bowling Green, OH, 43403, USA.
| | - Wendy D Manning
- Department of Sociology and Center for Family and Demographic Research, Bowling Green State University, Bowling Green, OH, 43403, USA
| | - Claire M Kamp Dush
- Department of Sociology, Minnesota Population Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
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14
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Sommantico M, Lacatena M, Ramaglia F. Romantic Attachment, Relationship Satisfaction, Internalized Sexual Stigma, and Motives for Parenthood in Italian Lesbian Women and Gay Men. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:6381. [PMID: 37510613 PMCID: PMC10379054 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20146381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
This study examines romantic attachment, internalized sexual stigma, relationship satisfaction, and motives for parenthood in a sample of 313 Italian lesbian women (47.9%) and gay men (52.1%) aged 18-71 years (M = 36.2; SD = 11.9) and in same-sex relationships. The following hypotheses were tested: that romantic attachment is positively correlated with internalized stigma and motives to not have children, while it is negatively correlated with relationship satisfaction; that relationship satisfaction is negatively correlated with internalized stigma and motives for parenthood; that internalized stigma is negatively correlated with motives for parenthood; and that relationship satisfaction mediates the relationships between romantic attachment and motives for parenthood and between internalized stigma and motives for parenthood. The results strongly support the hypotheses. Furthermore, the results indicate that the lesbian participants reported lower levels of avoidance and internalized stigma and higher levels of relationship satisfaction and motives to not have children, and the participants in civil unions reported lower levels of anxiety and internalized stigma and higher levels of relationship satisfaction and motives to not have children. Taken together, our findings contribute to the growing body of research on LG parenthood and may inform social policy and psychological support for LG individuals pursuing parenthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimiliano Sommantico
- Dynamic Psychology Laboratory, Department of Humanities, University of Naples Federico II, Via Porta di Massa 1, 80133 Naples, Italy
| | - Marina Lacatena
- Dynamic Psychology Laboratory, Department of Humanities, University of Naples Federico II, Via Porta di Massa 1, 80133 Naples, Italy
| | - Ferdinando Ramaglia
- Dynamic Psychology Laboratory, Department of Humanities, University of Naples Federico II, Via Porta di Massa 1, 80133 Naples, Italy
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15
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Perry N, Goldenberg T, Huebner D, Brown AL, Ware D, Meanley S, Haberlen S, Brennan-Ing M, Egan JE, Teplin L, Ho K, Detels R, Friedman MR, Plankey M. Longitudinal associations of relationship support and strain and internalized homophobia with mental health among middle-aged and older gay and bisexual men. Aging Ment Health 2023; 27:1609-1618. [PMID: 36415908 PMCID: PMC10200824 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2022.2146656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Objectives: Mental health concerns (e.g. depression, anxiety) that negatively impact gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM) persist over the life course and into old age, but less is known about potential contributors to GBMSM's mental health. Close relationships can be a source of risk or resilience from stress, exerting direct relationships on mental health, and may mediate well-established associations between minority stress and mental health. This study examined whether primary partner relationship support and strain were uniquely associated with, and mediated the association between internalized homophobia, and mental health among older GBMSM.Methods: GBMSM (N = 517, M age = 60) from the Multicenter AIDS Cohort Study, who were in primary relationships with men, provided self-report data at four timepoints. We used multilevel modeling to examine longitudinal associations among relationship support and strain and internalized homophobia with depression and anxiety.Results: Relationship strain, but not support, was positively associated with mental health concerns longitudinally. There was a significant, positive indirect effect of internalized homophobia on depression and anxiety through strain, but no support. Internalized homophobia was positively associated with relationship strain, which was positively associated with mental health symptoms longitudinally.Conclusions: Relationship strain was associated with depression and anxiety longitudinally among middle-aged and older GBMSM and mediated associations of internalized homophobia with mental health. The role of partner support warrants further investigation. Mental health interventions are critically needed for older GBMSM and, for partnered GBMSM, should include strategies for reducing relationship strain to foster well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas Perry
- Department of Psychology, University of Denver, Denver, CO, USA
| | - Tamar Goldenberg
- Department of Public Health Education, School of Health and Human Sciences, UNC Greensboro, Greensboro, NC, USA
| | - David Huebner
- Department of Prevention and Community Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, USA
| | | | - Deanna Ware
- Department of Medicine, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, D.C., USA
| | - Steven Meanley
- Department of Family and Community Health, School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Sabina Haberlen
- Department of Epidemiology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Mark Brennan-Ing
- Brookdale Center for Healthy Aging, Hunter College, New York, NY, USA
| | - James E Egan
- Department of Behavioral and Community Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Linda Teplin
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Ken Ho
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Roger Detels
- Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - M Reuel Friedman
- Department of Urban-Global Public Health, School of Public Health, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Michael Plankey
- Department of Medicine, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, D.C., USA
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16
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Sloan CJ, Wardecker BM, Mogle J, Almeida DM. Relationship Support and Strain among Sexual Minority Women: Changes across Cohorts from 1995 to 2013. COUPLE & FAMILY PSYCHOLOGY 2023; 12:92-102. [PMID: 37234485 PMCID: PMC10208226 DOI: 10.1037/cfp0000191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Sexual minority women are granted more rights today than ever before. However, it is unclear how the relationships of sexual minority women have changed compared to previous decades. Additionally, a large body of work has focused on women's same-sex (e.g., lesbian) relationships without accounting for the unique experiences of bisexual women in their relationships. The current study utilizes two national samples of heterosexual, lesbian, and bisexual women to address these gaps, one cohort from 1995 and a second from 2013. We performed analyses of variance (ANOVAs) to examine the effects of sexual orientation, cohort, and their interaction on relationship support and strain. On average, relationships exhibited higher quality in 2013 than in 1995. When considered together, lesbian and bisexual women exhibited higher relationship support than heterosexual women in 1995, but not 2013. Importantly, examining lesbian and bisexual women as separate groups revealed that bisexual women's relationships were on average characterized by lower support and higher strain than lesbian women. Simple effects indicated that bisexual women in 2013 were at the highest risk for diminished relationship quality, while lesbian and heterosexual women's relationships were either stable or improved in this more recent cohort. Implications for clinical practice as well as future research on sexual minority women is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlie J Sloan
- Department of Human Development and Family Studies, The Pennsylvania State University
| | - Britney M Wardecker
- College of Nursing, The Pennsylvania State University
- Center for Healthy Aging, The Pennsylvania State University
| | - Jacqueline Mogle
- Center for Healthy Aging, The Pennsylvania State University
- Prevention Research Center, The Pennsylvania State University
| | - David M Almeida
- Department of Human Development and Family Studies, The Pennsylvania State University
- Center for Healthy Aging, The Pennsylvania State University
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17
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Yan W, Huang C, Li C. Family and Relationship Quality among Young Adults with Different Sexual Orientations in Urban China: The Mediating Effects of Life Satisfaction and Self-Esteem. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2023; 60:689-703. [PMID: 36125856 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2022.2117772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
This study explored the ambivalent effects of family on the close relationship quality of Chinese young adults. From a national estimate of the urban population across mainland China, 5,089 participants aged 20-39 were recruited for this study. A three-dimensional conceptualization was applied to identify three groups with different sexual orientations in this study. Group A comprised participants who identified as sexual minority people; Group B comprised participants who identified as heterosexuals but were not exclusively attracted to one sex and/or individuals who had had same-sex sexual experiences; Group C comprised participants who identified as heterosexuals. Groups A and B reported lower close relationship satisfaction and psychological well-being than Group C. Life satisfaction and self-esteem partially mediated the association between family and close relationship satisfaction for all groups. However, this relationship was weaker for Group B, and closeness to family benefitted Group B's life satisfaction to a lesser extent, indicating that the nuanced relationship with family influenced the sexual minority people with heterosexual identities. We recommend future directions and practices in local research and policy-making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenhua Yan
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Mental Health and Psychological Crisis Intervention, School of Psychology and Cognitive Science, East China Normal University
| | - Chengshi Huang
- School of Psychology and Cognitive Science, East China Normal University
| | - Chengyan Li
- Department of Human Resource Management, Shanghai Normal University
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18
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Lefevor GT, Larsen ER, Golightly RM, Landrum M. Unpacking the Internalized Homonegativity-Health Relationship: How the Measurement of Internalized Homonegativity and Health Matter and the Contribution of Religiousness. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2023; 52:921-944. [PMID: 36344793 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-022-02436-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Revised: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/24/2022] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Internalized homonegativity (IH) is widely recognized to negatively influence the health of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and queer/questioning (LGBQ +) individuals. It is not clear, however, the role that religiousness may play in the relationship between IH and health or how differing conceptualizations of IH or health may influence this relationship. We conducted a multi-level meta-analysis of 151 effect sizes from 68 studies to examine the relationship between IH and health as well as what may moderate this relationship. Results suggested that IH was consistently and negatively related to health (r = - .28). Analyses suggest that IH was most strongly related to mental health and well-being, evidencing a relatively weaker (though still negative) relationship with physical or sexual health. Analyses of different ways to measure IH suggest that scales that conceptualize IH to include distress (e.g., the Internalized Homonegativity Inventory) report stronger relationships with health than scales that conceptualize IH orthogonally from distress (e.g., the Internalized Homonegativity scale of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual Identity Salience Scale [LGBIS]). We failed to find significant moderation effects for religiousness, though it was hard to evaluate this relationship due to the poor quality of most measures of religiousness. We encourage researchers to use measures of IH that conceptualize IH orthogonally from distress (e.g., the LGBIS) and to use more nuanced measures of religiousness (e.g., religious belief, religious activity). We also encourage researchers to focus on how IH impacts less-often studied measures of health (e.g., physical health, suicidality).
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Affiliation(s)
- G Tyler Lefevor
- Department of Psychology, Utah State University, Logan, UT, 84322, USA.
| | - Eric R Larsen
- Department of Psychology, Utah State University, Logan, UT, 84322, USA
| | | | - Maddie Landrum
- Department of Psychology, Utah State University, Logan, UT, 84322, USA
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19
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Guzmán-González M, Gómez F, Bahamondes J, Barrientos J, Garrido-Rojas L, Espinoza-Tapia R, Casu G. Internalized homonegativity moderates the association between attachment avoidance and emotional intimacy among same-sex male couples. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1148005. [PMID: 37063530 PMCID: PMC10090517 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1148005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
IntroductionThe present study aimed to examine dyadic associations between attachment insecurity and emotional intimacy in same-sex male couples, and to investigate whether and how each partner’s internalized homonegativity (IH) moderated these associations.MethodsThe sample included 138 same-sex male couples. Both dyad members completed self-report measures of attachment insecurity, emotional intimacy, and IH. The actor-partner interdependence model with moderation analysis was applied.ResultsIndicated that higher levels of actor’s and partner’s attachment anxiety and attachment avoidance were associated with lower actor’s emotional intimacy. IH moderated the partner effects of attachment avoidance on emotional intimacy. The partner’s higher attachment avoidance was associated with one’s own lower emotional intimacy at low (but not high) levels of one’s own IH and at high (but not low) levels of the partner’s IH.DiscussionFindings suggest that the partner’s attachment avoidance may differently affect one’s own emotional intimacy depending on the IH levels of both dyad members. Helping partnered sexual minority men decrease attachment insecurity while recognizing their own and their partners’ IH may promote relationship quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mónica Guzmán-González
- Laboratory of Research in Attachment, Couple Relationships and Family, School of Psychology, Universidad Católica del Norte, Antofagasta, Chile
- *Correspondence: Mónica Guzmán-González,
| | - Fabiola Gómez
- School of Psychology, Pontificia Universidad Católica, Santiago, Chile
| | - Joaquín Bahamondes
- School of Psychology, Universidad Católica del Norte, Antofagasta, Chile
| | - Jaime Barrientos
- Faculty of Psychology, Universidad Alberto Hurtado, Santiago, Chile
| | | | | | - Giulia Casu
- Department of Psychology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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20
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Smith MS, Feinstein BA, Mustanski B, Newcomb ME. Partner Gender and Binegativity Uniquely Impact Relationship Quality among Bisexual Men. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2023; 60:359-367. [PMID: 35938904 PMCID: PMC9905328 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2022.2106350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Romantic relationships both buffer and exacerbate adverse health outcomes among bisexual individuals, so understanding determinants of their functioning may be key to correcting health inequities affecting this population. Binegativity (i.e., prejudiced attitudes about bisexuality) expressed from one's intimate partner has the potential to be uniquely impactful for bisexuals, but it is presently unknown how this experience might impact the quality (and therefore potential health promotive effects) of their romantic relationships. In addition, gender of one's current romantic partner may shape experiences of binegativity and relationship quality in important ways. The purpose of this report was to examine how binegativity from intimate partners impacts relationship functioning (i.e., relationship satisfaction and intimate partner aggression) among bisexual men (N = 113), and how the gender of one's partner might moderate this effect. Results suggested that binegativity is detrimentally associated with relationship satisfaction, and that bisexual men in relationships with women report more frequent intimate partner aggression. Furthermore, partner gender and binegativity showed novel interactive associations with intimate partner aggression, such that bisexual men in relationships with women tended to perpetrate less intimate partner aggression when experiencing more binegativity. These results are discussed with regard to future avenues for research into the health promotive benefits of relationships for bisexual individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madison Shea Smith
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University
| | - Brian A Feinstein
- Department of Psychology, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science
| | - Brian Mustanski
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University
| | - Michael E Newcomb
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University
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21
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Eric S. Reyes M, Camille M. Alday A, Jay J. Aurellano A, Raven R. Escala S, Ermelo V. Hernandez P, Esrom P. Matienzo J, Marian R. Panaguiton K, Charmaine C. Tan A, Zsila Á. Minority Stressors and Attitudes Toward Intimate Partner Violence Among Lesbian and Gay Individuals. SEXUALITY & CULTURE 2022; 27:930-950. [PMID: 36531155 PMCID: PMC9739342 DOI: 10.1007/s12119-022-10046-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 11/12/2022] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Sexual minority individuals experience more intimate partner violence (IPV) than those in heterosexual relationships. Issues of mistrust, stigma, and anticipation of abuse contribute to these rates. Lesbian and gay IPV victims have distinct experiences from their abuses with exposure to homophobia, heterosexism, discrimination, and threats of sexual disclosure, among others. These unique and additive minority stressors can lead to adverse health concerns, increase vulnerability to victimization, and elevate abuse perpetration. This study aimed to investigate whether experiences of minority stressors are associated with attitudes toward intimate partner violence among a sample of 240 lesbian and gay Filipinos (155 lesbian and 85 gay participants) aged 20 to 40. Through convenience sampling, lesbian and gay Filipinos completed the Sexual Minority Stress Scale (SMSS) and Intimate Partner Violence Attitude Scale-Revised (IPVAS-Revised). Comparing the minority stressors levels among the participants, lesbians expressed higher expectations of rejection, while gay men experienced more sexual minority adverse events. Lesbians also reported higher satisfaction with outness. Regarding IPV, gay men expressed slightly more favorable attitudes toward abuse, which could make them at risk of becoming victims or perpetrators. Internalized homophobia was associated with more favorable attitudes toward abuse and control, indicating its contribution to more favorable IPV attitudes, although the explanatory power was modest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Eric S. Reyes
- Department of Psychology, College of Science, University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines
| | - Angeli Camille M. Alday
- Department of Psychology, College of Science, University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines
| | - Alexa Jay J. Aurellano
- Department of Psychology, College of Science, University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines
| | - Sahara Raven R. Escala
- Department of Psychology, College of Science, University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines
| | | | - John Esrom P. Matienzo
- Department of Psychology, College of Science, University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines
| | | | - Angeli Charmaine C. Tan
- Department of Psychology, College of Science, University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines
| | - Ágnes Zsila
- Institute of Psychology, Pázmány Péter Catholic University, Budapest, Hungary
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22
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Curtis MG, Kogan S, Mitchell JW, Stephenson R. Dyadic effects of enacted stigma, internalized homophobia, and communal coping on depressive symptoms among cisgender sexual minority male couples. FAMILY PROCESS 2022; 61:1541-1558. [PMID: 34993953 DOI: 10.1111/famp.12746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Revised: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The present study investigated the dyadic direct and indirect effects of enacted stigma on depressive symptoms via internalized homophobia and whether communal coping moderated the effects of enacted stigma on internalized homophobia and depressive symptoms. Hypotheses were tested using actor-partner interdependence models with a sample of 543 cisgender sexual minority male couples. Results showed both partners' enacted stigma experiences were associated with elevated levels of internalized homophobia via actor and partner effects. Internalized homophobia was only associated with elevated depressive symptoms via actor effects. Indirect effects analysis suggested that internalized homophobia mediated the actor and partner influence of enacted stigma on depressive symptoms. Communal coping moderated the direct effects of enacted stigma on internalized homophobia and attenuated the conditional indirect actor and partner effects of enacted stigma on depressive symptoms. Findings underscore the role of intimate relationship processes in understanding the impacts of enacted stigma on depressive symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael G Curtis
- Department of Human Development and Family Science, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Steven Kogan
- Department of Human Development and Family Science, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Jason W Mitchell
- Department of Health Promotion and Disease Prevention, Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Rob Stephenson
- Department of Systems, Population and Leadership, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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23
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Șerban I, Salvati M, Enea V. Sexual Orientation and Infidelity-Related Behaviors on Social Media Sites. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:15659. [PMID: 36497734 PMCID: PMC9740560 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192315659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Revised: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Little research has been focused on offline or online infidelity in GL dating relationships, especially in a post-communist socio-cultural context. Infidelity-related (IR) behaviors on social media sites might be as hurtful to relationships as offline infidelity, both in gay, lesbian (GL) and heterosexual romantic monogamous relationships. In this cross-sectional study, we aimed to examine the associations between dyadic satisfaction, attitudes toward infidelity, and problematic internet usage, with IR behaviors on social media sites among GL and heterosexual unmarried individuals in Romanian sexual minority communities. Results showed that GL respondents did not significantly differ from heterosexual participants regarding IR behaviors. Furthermore, we found the main effect of attitudes toward infidelity and problematic internet use on IR behaviors. Sexual orientation highlights the main effect of IR behaviors when analyzed with dyadic satisfaction. The current study may be a precursor to further research investigating correlations in online IR behavior among lesbian and gay individuals engaging in consensual nonmonogamy. Implications of the findings are discussed in the social context of a post-communist country where GL individuals may face discrimination and stigma because of their sexual orientation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ionela Șerban
- Department of Psychology, Alexandru Ioan Cuza University, 700554 Iaşi, Romania
| | - Marco Salvati
- Department of Human Sciences, University of Verona, 37126 Verona, Italy
| | - Violeta Enea
- Department of Psychology, Alexandru Ioan Cuza University, 700554 Iaşi, Romania
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24
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Sepúlveda-Páez G, Santibañez-Palma JF, Ferrer-Urbina R, Atencio D, Bucarei P, Castillo J, Fuentes M, Zumarán B. Internalized homophobia and sexual risk behavior in men who have sex with men: The mediational role of sexual self-concept. Front Psychol 2022; 13:1007749. [PMID: 36312057 PMCID: PMC9614244 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.1007749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Men who have sex with men (MSM) are one of the populations most likely to be infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) worldwide. Sexual risk behaviors (SRB) are the main route of HIV transmission. Among the factors associated with SRB, internalized homophobia (rejection of one's sexuality) is a risk factor unique for MSM. However, how this factor influences SRB is not clear. Therefore, the present study attempts to clarify the mechanism of action of the relationship between internalized homophobia on SRB based on the mediating effects of sexual self-concept. A study was conducted with 124 MSM living in Chile over 18 years of age (M = 24.4 and SD = 4.19). Through path analysis, it was observed that internalized homophobia has slight inverse effects on SRBs (multiple sexual partners and sexual activity under the influence of alcohol or drugs) when the sexual self-efficacy dimension acts as a mediating variable. These findings suggest that developing sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV/AIDS prevention campaigns focused on MSM must highlight the development of a healthy sexual self-concept and address self-stigma.
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25
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Siegel M, Legler M, Neziraj F, Goldberg AE, Zemp M. Minority Stress and Positive Identity Aspects in Members of LGBTQ+ Parent Families: Literature Review and a Study Protocol for a Mixed-Methods Evidence Synthesis. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 9:children9091364. [PMID: 36138673 PMCID: PMC9497922 DOI: 10.3390/children9091364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 05/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Parents and children in LGBTQ+ parent families face unique stressors (i.e., minority stress), but also possess unique resources (i.e., positive identity aspects) related to their family identity. Empirical evidence and theory suggest that these minority stressors and positive identity aspects are situated on the individual, couple, and family level and may be associated with key outcomes, including parent and child health, family functioning, and school-related outcomes. A systematic evidence synthesis and a theoretical placement are currently lacking. The aims of the systematic review outlined in this protocol are thus to (1) map minority stressors and positive identity aspects according to multiple levels in the family system, and (2) to synthesize evidence on their associations with key outcomes. METHODS We will conduct a PRISMA-conform mixed-methods systematic review. Studies will be retrieved using a multi-tiered search strategy, including database searches (PsycInfo, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science), cited literature searches, authors' publication lists, and study requests. The mixed-methods synthesis will follow a parallel-results convergent synthesis design, where quantitative results will be synthesized via meta-analysis and qualitative results via thematic synthesis. CONCLUSIONS Our proposed systematic review may add to the theoretical understanding of LGBTQ+ parent family functioning and advance social inclusion of LGBTQ+ parent families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Siegel
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, University of Vienna, 1010 Vienna, Austria
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +43-1-4277-47285
| | - Muriel Legler
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, University of Vienna, 1010 Vienna, Austria
| | - Fortese Neziraj
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, University of Vienna, 1010 Vienna, Austria
| | - Abbie E. Goldberg
- Department of Psychology, Clark University, Worcester, MA 01610-1477, USA
| | - Martina Zemp
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, University of Vienna, 1010 Vienna, Austria
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26
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Guzmán-González M, Bekios N, Burgos J, Obregón C, Tabilo B, Casu G. Attachment and Dyadic Forgiveness in Individuals in Same-Sex Couple Relationships. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:11152. [PMID: 36141426 PMCID: PMC9517675 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191811152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Revised: 09/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/04/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
(1) Background: There is abundant evidence linking attachment insecurity to lower levels of interpersonal forgiveness. However, this association has been almost exclusively explored in people in a different-sex couple relationship, and there is little evidence referring to gay, lesbian, and bisexual (LGB) people in a same-sex relationship. The present study examines the association between romantic attachment and dyadic forgiveness in individuals involved in a same-sex couple relationship. (2) Methods: A total of 248 participants (52.8% female) aged 18-67 years (mean age: 31.02 ± 9.39) completed the Experiences in Close Relationships questionnaire and the Transgression-Related Interpersonal Motivation Inventory. (3) Results: Structural equation modeling showed that attachment avoidance was more strongly associated with dyadic forgiveness than attachment anxiety. Higher levels of attachment anxiety and avoidance were both linked to higher levels of avoidance motivation in response to partner transgressions, and higher attachment avoidance was linked to lower benevolence motivation. Multigroup analyses indicated a gender-specific association between attachment avoidance and revenge motivations, which was positive and significant among men only. (4) Conclusions: In the present study, we have identified that attachment avoidance plays a more prominent role in the tendency to forgive in same-sex couples. Implications at both theoretical and clinical practice levels are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mónica Guzmán-González
- School of Psychology, Universidad Católica del Norte, Avenida Angamos 0610, Antofagasta 1240000, Chile
| | - Nikolás Bekios
- School of Psychology, Universidad Católica del Norte, Avenida Angamos 0610, Antofagasta 1240000, Chile
| | - Josefa Burgos
- School of Psychology, Universidad Católica del Norte, Avenida Angamos 0610, Antofagasta 1240000, Chile
| | - Camila Obregón
- School of Psychology, Universidad Católica del Norte, Avenida Angamos 0610, Antofagasta 1240000, Chile
| | - Benjamín Tabilo
- School of Psychology, Universidad Católica del Norte, Avenida Angamos 0610, Antofagasta 1240000, Chile
| | - Giulia Casu
- Department of Psychology, University of Bologna, 40127 Bologna, Italy
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Cao H, Fine MA, Zhou N. The Divorce Process and Child Adaptation Trajectory Typology (DPCATT) Model: The Shaping Role of Predivorce and Postdivorce Interparental Conflict. Clin Child Fam Psychol Rev 2022; 25:500-528. [PMID: 35106699 PMCID: PMC8805665 DOI: 10.1007/s10567-022-00379-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Divorce has been conceptualized as a process. Research has extensively demonstrated that it is pre/postdivorce family environment factors that primarily account for the variability in children's adaptation over parental divorce process rather than the legal divorce per se. Amongst various factors, interparental conflict has been consistently identified as a prominent one. Surprisingly, a single source is still lacking that comprehensively synthesizes the extant findings. This review fills this gap by integrating the numerous findings across studies into a more coherent Divorce Process and Child Adaptation Trajectory Typology (DPCATT) Model to illustrate that pre/postdivorce interparental conflict plays crucial roles in shaping child adaptation trajectories across parental divorce process. This review also summarizes the mechanisms (e.g., child cognitive and emotional processes, coparenting, parent-child relations) via which pre/postdivorce interparental conflict determines these trajectories and the factors (e.g., child gender and age, child coping, grandparental support) that interact with pre/postdivorce interparental conflict to further complicate these trajectories. In addition, echoing the call of moving beyond the monolithic conceptualization of pre/postdivorce interparental conflict, we also review studies on the differential implications of different aspects (e.g., frequency versus intensity) and types (e.g., overt versus covert) of interparental conflict for child adjustment. Last, limitations of prior studies and avenues for future research are discussed. The proposed framework may serve as a common knowledge base for researchers to compare/interpret results, detect cutting edges of the fields, and design new studies. The specificity, complexity, nuance, and diversity inherent within our proposed model await to be more fully revealed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongjian Cao
- Institute of Early Childhood Education, Faculty of Education, Beijing Normal University, 512 Ying Dong Building, No. 19 Xin Jie Kou Wai Street, Hai Dian District, Beijing, 100875 China
| | - Mark A. Fine
- Department of Human Development and Family Studies, University of North Carolina at Greensboro, 134 Stone Building, Greensboro, NC 27402 USA
| | - Nan Zhou
- Department of Educational Psychology and School Counseling, Faculty of Education, Beijing Normal University, 528 Ying Dong Building, No. 19 Xin Jie Kou Wai Street, Hai Dian District, Beijing, 100875 China
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Siegel M, Randall AK, Lannutti PJ, Fischer MS, Gandhi Y, Lukas R, Meuwly N, Rosta-Filep O, van Stein K, Ditzen B, Martos T, Schneckenreiter C, Totenhagen CJ, Zemp M. Intimate Pride: a Tri-Nation Study on Associations between Positive Minority Identity Aspects and Relationship Quality in Sexual Minorities from German-Speaking Countries. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF APPLIED POSITIVE PSYCHOLOGY 2022; 8:1-29. [PMID: 35936990 PMCID: PMC9344453 DOI: 10.1007/s41042-022-00070-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Investigations into the intimate relationships of sexual minorities are proliferating, but often adopt a deficit-oriented and US-centered perspective. In this tri-nation online study with sexual minority participants from Austria, Germany, and Switzerland (N = 571), we (i) assessed the construct validity of the German version of a well-known measure for positive minority identity aspects (the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual Positive Identity Measure; LGB-PIM), and (ii) explored associations between these aspects (self-awareness, authenticity, community, capacity for intimacy, and social justice) and self-reported relationship quality. Model fit of the German version of the LGB-PIM was deemed acceptable. Higher levels of positive minority identity aspects showed small to moderate associations with higher levels of relationship quality in bivariate analyses, but only capacity for intimacy was linked to relationship quality in higher-order models (controlling for country, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, relationship length, and psychological distress). Results remained robust in several sensitivity analyses. Our results highlight the differential role of positive identity aspects for relationship functioning, with capacity for intimacy as a fruitful leverage point for therapeutic work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Siegel
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerpen, Belgium
| | - Ashley K. Randall
- Counseling and Counseling Psychology, Arizona State University, Tempe, USA
| | | | - Melanie S. Fischer
- Institute of Medical Psychology, Heidelberg University Hospital & Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Yuvamathi Gandhi
- Counseling and Counseling Psychology, Arizona State University, Tempe, USA
| | - Raphaela Lukas
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Nathalie Meuwly
- Department of Psychology, Institute for Family Research and Counseling, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | | | - Katharina van Stein
- Institute of Medical Psychology, Heidelberg University Hospital & Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Beate Ditzen
- Institute of Medical Psychology, Heidelberg University Hospital & Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Tamás Martos
- Department of Personality, Clinical and Health Psychology, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | | | - Casey J. Totenhagen
- Human Development and Family Studies, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, USA AL
| | - Martina Zemp
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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29
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Lin CY, Griffiths MD, Pakpour AH, Tsai CS, Yen CF. Relationships of familial sexual stigma and family support with internalized homonegativity among lesbian, gay and bisexual individuals: The mediating effect of self-identity disturbance and moderating effect of gender. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:1465. [PMID: 35915488 PMCID: PMC9344633 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-13815-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The mediators of the association between familial attitudes toward sexual orientation and internalized homonegativity among lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) individuals have not been well examined. Methods A cross-sectional survey study was carried out to examine the (i) associations of familial sexual stigma and family support with internalized homonegativity among young adult LGB individuals in Taiwan, and (ii) mediating effect of self-identity disturbance and the moderating effect of gender. Self-identified LGB individuals (N = 1000; 50% males and 50% females; mean age = 24.6 years) participated in the study. Familial sexual stigma, family support, self-identity disturbance, and internalized homonegativity were assessed. Structural equation modeling was used to examine relationships between the variables. Results The results indicated that familial sexual stigma was directly associated with increased internalized homonegativity, and indirectly associated with increased internalized homonegativity via the mediation of self-identity disturbance among LGB individuals. Family support was indirectly associated with decreased internalized homonegativity via the mediation of low self-identity disturbance. The direct association between family support and internalized homonegativity was only found among lesbian and bisexual women but not among gay and bisexual men. Conclusions Program interventions for familial sexual stigma, family support, and self-identity disturbance are warranted to help reduce internalized homonegativity among LGB individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chung-Ying Lin
- Institute of Allied Health Sciences, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan.,Department of Occupational Therapy, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan.,Department of Public Health, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan.,Biostatistics Consulting Center, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Mark D Griffiths
- International Gaming Research Unit, Psychology Department, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK
| | - Amir H Pakpour
- Department of Nursing, School of Health and Welfare, Jönköping University, Jönköping, Sweden
| | - Ching-Shu Tsai
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical Center, Kaohsiung and School of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan. .,Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical Center, 32 Dapi Rd. Niaosong Dist., Kaohsiung, 83341, Taiwan.
| | - Cheng-Fang Yen
- Department of Psychiatry, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, and School of Medicine College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, 100 Tzyou 1st Road, Kaohsiung, 80708, Taiwan. .,College of Professional Studies, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, Pingtung, Taiwan.
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30
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Rice TM, Ogolsky BG, Oswald RF. Individuals in same-sex relationships maintain relational well-being despite the frequency and severity of heterosexism. PSYCHOLOGY & SEXUALITY 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/19419899.2020.1854835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- TeKisha M. Rice
- Department of Human Development and Family Studies, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Brian G. Ogolsky
- Department of Human Development and Family Studies, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Ramona Faith Oswald
- Department of Human Development and Family Studies, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
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Lin CY, Tsai CS, Fan CW, Griffiths MD, Chang CC, Yen CF, Pakpour AH. Psychometric Evaluation of Three Versions of the UCLA Loneliness Scale (Full, Eight-Item, and Three-Item Versions) among Sexual Minority Men in Taiwan. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19138095. [PMID: 35805754 PMCID: PMC9265606 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19138095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The UCLA Loneliness Scale, with different short versions, is widely used to assess levels of loneliness. However, whether the scale is valid in assessing loneliness among sexual-minority men is unknown. Additionally, it is unclear whether the 8-item and 3-item short versions are comparable to the full 20-item version. The present study compared the validity of the three versions of the UCLA Loneliness Scale (i.e., 20-item, 8-item, and 3-item versions) among gay and bisexual men in Taiwan. The participants comprised 400 gay and bisexual men in Taiwan who completed a cross-sectional online survey, which included the UCLA Loneliness Scale, Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale (CES-D) and State–Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI). Confirmatory factor analysis was used to evaluate factorial validity. Convergent validity was examined between the three versions of the UCLA Loneliness Scale and the CES-D and STAI. Known-group validity was investigated with participants’ sexual orientation and educational levels. The unidimensional construct was supported in all three versions of the UCLA Loneliness Scale tested in the present study. Convergent validity was supported as the level of loneliness was correlated with the level of depression and anxiety for all three versions. There were no significant differences between gay and bisexual men, although significant differences were found across different educational levels. The study confirmed that all three versions of the UCLA Loneliness Scale were comparable with satisfactory reliability and validity in Taiwanese sexual-minority men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chung-Ying Lin
- Institute of Allied Health Sciences, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 70101, Taiwan;
- Biostatistics Consulting Center, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 70101, Taiwan
- Department of Public Health, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 70101, Taiwan
- Department of Occupational Therapy, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 70101, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Shu Tsai
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical Center, Kaohsiung 83301, Taiwan;
- School of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33302, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Wei Fan
- Department of Occupational Therapy, AdventHealth University, Orlando, FL 32803, USA;
| | - Mark D. Griffiths
- International Gaming Research Unit, Psychology Department, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham NG1 4FQ, UK;
| | - Chih-Cheng Chang
- Department of Psychiatry, Chi Mei Medical Center, Tainan 70246, Taiwan
- Department of Health Psychology, Chang Jung Christian University, Tainan 71101, Taiwan
- Correspondence: (C.-C.C.); (C.-F.Y.); Tel.: +886-6-2228116 (ext. 58604) (C.-C.C.); +886-7-3121101 (ext. 6822) (C.-F.Y.)
| | - Cheng-Fang Yen
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
- Department of Psychiatry, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 80756, Taiwan
- College of Professional Studies, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, Pingtung 91201, Taiwan
- Correspondence: (C.-C.C.); (C.-F.Y.); Tel.: +886-6-2228116 (ext. 58604) (C.-C.C.); +886-7-3121101 (ext. 6822) (C.-F.Y.)
| | - Amir H. Pakpour
- Department of Nursing, School of Health and Welfare, Jönköping University, SE-551 11 Jönköping, Sweden;
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Cao H, Ma R, Li X, Liang Y, Wu Q, Chi P, Li JB, Zhou N. Childhood Emotional Maltreatment and Adulthood Romantic Relationship Well-Being: A Multilevel, Meta-Analytic Review. TRAUMA, VIOLENCE & ABUSE 2022; 23:778-794. [PMID: 33267741 DOI: 10.1177/1524838020975895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
During the past decade, research on the link between childhood emotional maltreatment and adulthood romantic relationship well-being has been accumulating, but there still lacks a systematic, quantitative evaluation of existing research. This three-level, meta-analysis aimed to fill this gap. Reports were included if they examined the link between early emotional maltreatment and adulthood romantic relationship well-being, presented statistics needed to calculate at least one bivariate effect size, written in English, and published/written before January 1, 2020. We retrieved 201 effect sizes from 23 reports. Early emotional maltreatment (aggregated across forms) was negatively (yet modestly) associated with later romantic relationship well-being (aggregated across dimensions; r = -.143, 95% confidence interval [-.173, -.114], p < .001). This association did not vary as a function of maltreatment form but differed across relationship well-being dimensions, such that the effect was stronger for the negative than for the positive relationship outcomes. We also found that (a) the actor effect was larger than the partner effect, (b) the effect was stronger in studies using Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ) than in studies not using CTQ, (c) whether using established measures of relationship well-being did not alter the effect, (d) the absolute magnitude of effect was negatively associated with methodological rigor of effect, and (e) the effect did not vary as functions of publication type, whether the sample was a college student sample, or union status, and was not related to the mean of union duration. Last, the limitations of existing research, avenues for future inquiries, and implications for practice were noted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongjian Cao
- Institute of Early Childhood Education, Faculty of Education, 47836Beijing Normal University, China
| | - Rongzi Ma
- Faculty of Psychology, 47836Beijing Normal University, China
| | - Xiaomin Li
- Department of Family Studies and Human Development, 8041The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Yue Liang
- School of Social Development and Public Policy, 47836Beijing Normal University, China
| | - Qinglu Wu
- Department of Psychology, 59193University of Macau, China
| | - Peilian Chi
- Department of Psychology, 59193University of Macau, China
| | - Jian-Bin Li
- Department of Early Childhood Education, 66390The Education University of Hong Kong, China
| | - Nan Zhou
- Department of Educational Psychology and School Counseling, Faculty of Education, 47836Beijing Normal University, China
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Narrative Couple Therapy with Sexual Minority Couples: Exploring Sexual Intimacy. CONTEMPORARY FAMILY THERAPY 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s10591-022-09644-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Frost DM, Fingerhut AW, Meyer IH. Social change and relationship quality among sexual minority individuals: Does minority stress still matter? JOURNAL OF MARRIAGE AND THE FAMILY 2022; 84:920-933. [PMID: 35875615 PMCID: PMC9302992 DOI: 10.1111/jomf.12827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Revised: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study examined whether positive changes in social attitudes and policies surrounding sexual minority relationships have translated to diminished deleterious effects of minority stress on relationship quality. BACKGROUND Sexual minority emerging adults now come of age at a time of greater equality and acceptance than previous generations. Research has demonstrated consistent negative effects of stigma-theorized as minority stress-on relationship quality for sexual minority individuals. However, given the improving social climate, questions remain regarding whether minority stress has the same deleterious effects on the romantic relationships of sexual minority emerging adults. METHOD Five-hundred forty-nine individuals in relationships drawn from a US national probability sample completed a survey containing validated measures of minority stressors and relationship satisfaction. Responses from emerging adults (aged 18-25) were compared to two cohorts who came of age during the HIV/AIDS crisis (aged 34-41) and post Stonewall (aged 52-59). RESULTS Emerging adults were more satisfied with their relationships than older cohorts. Experiences of everyday discrimination were associated with decreased relationship satisfaction for all cohorts; however, felt stigma, stigma concealment, and internalized stigma were associated with lower relationship satisfaction for older but not younger cohorts. CONCLUSION Findings illustrate the continued but shifting role of minority stress and provide the first evidence that social and policy changes may have translated into more positive relationship experiences for sexual minority emerging adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- David M. Frost
- Social Research InstituteUniversity College LondonLondonUK
| | - Adam W. Fingerhut
- Department of PsychologyLoyola Marymount UniversityLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
| | - Ilan H. Meyer
- The Williams InstituteUCLA School of LawLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
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Lin HC, Chang CC, Chang YP, Chen YL, Yen CF. Associations among Perceived Sexual Stigma from Family and Peers, Internalized Homonegativity, Loneliness, Depression, and Anxiety among Gay and Bisexual Men in Taiwan. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19106225. [PMID: 35627760 PMCID: PMC9141414 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19106225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to examine the moderating factors of the association between perceived sexual stigma from family and peers and internalized homonegativity, as well as to compare the effects of perceived sexual stigma from family and peers and internalized homonegativity on loneliness, depression, and anxiety in gay and bisexual men. In total, 400 gay and bisexual men participated in this study. The experiences of perceived sexual stigma from family and peers on the Homosexuality subscale of the HIV and Homosexuality Related Stigma Scale, internalized homonegativity on the Measure of Internalized Sexual Stigma for Lesbians and Gay Men, loneliness on the UCLA Loneliness Scale (Version 3), depression on the Center for Epidemiological Studies-Depression Scale, and anxiety on the State subscale of the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory were collected. The results indicated that perceived sexual stigma from family and peers was significantly associated with internalized homonegativity in both gay and bisexual men, and that sexual orientation moderated the association. Moreover, the association between internalized homonegativity and loneliness was significantly greater than that between perceived sexual stigma from family and peers and loneliness, although no significant differences were observed in their associations with depression and anxiety. Intervention programs that promote changes in the attitudes toward gay and bisexual men among the general population are needed to help prevent the development of internalized homonegativity and further loneliness, depression and anxiety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huang-Chi Lin
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan;
- Department of Psychiatry, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 80756, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Cheng Chang
- Department of Psychiatry, Chi Mei Medical Center, Tainan 70246, Taiwan;
- Department of Health Psychology, College of Health Sciences, Chang Jung Christian University, Tainan 71101, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Ping Chang
- School of Nursing, The State University of New York, University at Buffalo, New York, NY 14214-3079, USA;
| | - Yi-Lung Chen
- Department of Healthcare Administration, College of Medical and Health Science, Asia University, Taichung 41354, Taiwan
- Department of Psychology, College of Medical and Health Science, Asia University, Taichung 41354, Taiwan
- Correspondence: (Y.-L.C.); (C.-F.Y.); Tel.: +886-4-23323456 (ext. 20106) (Y.-L.C.); +886-7-3121101 (ext. 6822) (C.-F.Y.)
| | - Cheng-Fang Yen
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan;
- Department of Psychiatry, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 80756, Taiwan
- College of Professional Studies, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, Pingtung 91201, Taiwan
- Correspondence: (Y.-L.C.); (C.-F.Y.); Tel.: +886-4-23323456 (ext. 20106) (Y.-L.C.); +886-7-3121101 (ext. 6822) (C.-F.Y.)
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Huang MF, Chang YP, Lu WH, Yen CF. Problematic Smartphone Use and Its Associations with Sexual Minority Stressors, Gender Nonconformity, and Mental Health Problems among Young Adult Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Individuals in Taiwan. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19095780. [PMID: 35565175 PMCID: PMC9105429 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19095780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2022] [Revised: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/07/2022]
Abstract
Smartphones are a necessity for many people; however, problematic smartphone use (PSU) may negatively influence people’s mental health. Using multivariate linear regression analysis, the study examined the associations of sexual minority stressors [namely perceived sexual stigma from family members, sexual orientation microaggressions (SOMs), and internalized sexual stigma] and gender nonconformity with PSU severity as well as the associations of PSU with depression and anxiety in young adult lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) individuals. This cross-sectional survey study recruited 1000 young adult LGB individuals (500 men and 500 women). PSU severity was assessed using the Smartphone Addiction Inventory. The experiences of perceived sexual stigma from family members, SOMs, and internalized sexual stigma and the levels of gender nonconformity, depression, and anxiety were assessed. The results indicated that perceived sexual stigma from family members, SOMs, internalized sexual stigma in the dimensions of social discomfort and identity and gender nonconformity were significantly associated with PSU severity in LGB individuals. Moreover, PSU was significantly associated with depression and anxiety in LGB individuals. The findings highlight the significance of developing strategies for the prevention and early detection of PSU and sexual minority stress in LGB individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei-Feng Huang
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan;
- Department of Psychiatry, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 80756, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Ping Chang
- School of Nursing, The State University of New York, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14260, USA;
| | - Wei-Hsin Lu
- Department of Psychiatry, Ditmanson Medical Foundation Chia-Yi Christian Hospital, Chiayi 60002, Taiwan
- Correspondence: (W.-H.L.); (C.-F.Y.); Tel.: +886-5-2765041 (ext. 6654) (W.-H.L.); +886-7-3121101 (ext. 6816) (C.-F.Y.)
| | - Cheng-Fang Yen
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan;
- Department of Psychiatry, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 80756, Taiwan
- College of Professional Studies, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, Pingtung 91201, Taiwan
- Correspondence: (W.-H.L.); (C.-F.Y.); Tel.: +886-5-2765041 (ext. 6654) (W.-H.L.); +886-7-3121101 (ext. 6816) (C.-F.Y.)
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Elmer EM, van Tilburg T, Fokkema T. Minority Stress and Loneliness in a Global Sample of Sexual Minority Adults: The Roles of Social Anxiety, Social Inhibition, and Community Involvement. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2022; 51:2269-2298. [PMID: 35084615 PMCID: PMC9192366 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-021-02132-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2020] [Revised: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Research suggests that loneliness among sexual minority adults is associated with marginalization, but it is unclear which processes may underlie this relationship. This cross-sectional study examined five possibilities: stigma preoccupation, internalized homonegativity, sexual orientation concealment, social anxiety, and social inhibition. The study also examined the possible protective role of LGBTQ community involvement. Respondents were 7856 sexual minority adults aged 18-88 years from 85 countries who completed an online survey. Results of structural equation modeling indicated that marginalization was positively associated with both social and emotional loneliness, and that part of this relationship was indirect via proximal minority stress factors (especially stigma preoccupation) and, in turn, social anxiety and social inhibition. Moreover, while LGBTQ community involvement was associated with greater marginalization, it was also associated with lower levels of proximal stress and both forms of loneliness. Among those who were more involved in the LGBTQ community, the associations between marginalization and proximal stress were somewhat weaker, as were those between stigma preoccupation and social anxiety, and between social inhibition and social loneliness. In contrast, the associations between concealment and social anxiety were somewhat stronger. Model fit and patterns of association were similar after controlling for the possible confounding effect of dispositional negative affectivity, but several coefficients were lower. Findings underscore the continuing need to counter marginalization of sexual minorities, both outside and within the LGBTQ community, and suggest possible avenues for alleviating loneliness at the individual level, such as cognitive-behavioral interventions targeting stigma preoccupation and social anxiety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eddy M Elmer
- Department of Sociology, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1105, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
| | - Theo van Tilburg
- Department of Sociology, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1105, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Tineke Fokkema
- Netherlands Interdisciplinary Demographic Institute, KNAW/University of Groningen, The Hague, Netherlands
- Department of Public Administration and Sociology, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, Netherlands
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Sommantico M, Parrello S. Internalized stigma, adult attachment, relationship satisfaction, and depression in Italian gay and bisexual men: The mediating role of emotion regulation. JOURNAL OF GAY & LESBIAN MENTAL HEALTH 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/19359705.2021.1913463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Massimiliano Sommantico
- Dynamic Psychology Laboratory, Department of Humanities, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Santa Parrello
- Dynamic Psychology Laboratory, Department of Humanities, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
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39
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Lee JI, Chang YP, Tsai CS, Yen CF. Internalized Sexual Stigma among Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Individuals in Taiwan: Its Related Factors and Association with Mental Health Problems. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19042427. [PMID: 35206614 PMCID: PMC8872568 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19042427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Revised: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Internalized sexual stigma (ISS) is one of the major issues that can compromise the health of sexual minority populations. This quantitative study aimed to examine: (1) the relationships of individual factors (gender, age, education level, sexual orientation, and age of identification of sexual orientation) and perceived family support with ISS; and (2) the associations of ISS with mood problems and the moderating effects of gender on the associations among Taiwanese young adult lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) individuals. In total, 500 male and 500 female young adult LGB individuals aged between 20 and 30 years participated in this study. The experience of ISS, individual (e.g., gender, age, education level, sexual orientation, and age of identification of sexual orientation) and environmental factors (perceived family), mood problems (e.g., anxiety and depression) were collected. The individual and environmental factors related to ISS and the associations of ISS with mood problems were examined using multivariate linear regression analysis. The results indicated that gender, sexual orientation, age of identification of sexual orientation, and perceived family support were significantly associated with all or some dimensions of ISS in LGB individuals. Various dimensions of ISS had different relationships with anxiety and depression. Gender had moderating effects on the association between the identity dimension of ISS and sexual orientation as well as between the social discomfort dimension of ISS and anxiety. Various dimensions of ISS among LGB individuals should be routinely assessed by mental health service units. Intervention programs should be provided for LGB individuals, especially those with factors related to ISS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia-In Lee
- Department of Psychiatry, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 80756, Taiwan;
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Graduate Institute of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Ping Chang
- School of Nursing, The State University of New York, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14260, USA;
| | - Ching-Shu Tsai
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical Center, Kaohsiung 83301, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33302, Taiwan
- Correspondence: (C.-S.T.); (C.-F.Y.); Tel.: +886-7-7317-123 (ext. 8751) (C.-S.T.); +886-7-3124-941 (C.-F.Y.)
| | - Cheng-Fang Yen
- Department of Psychiatry, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 80756, Taiwan;
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Graduate Institute of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
- College of Professional Studies, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, Pingtung 91201, Taiwan
- Correspondence: (C.-S.T.); (C.-F.Y.); Tel.: +886-7-7317-123 (ext. 8751) (C.-S.T.); +886-7-3124-941 (C.-F.Y.)
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40
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Song C, Buysse A, Zhang WH, Dewaele A. Perceived Discrimination and Relationship Satisfaction Among Same-Sex Couples: The Role of Dyadic Stress and Sex. JOURNAL OF SEX & MARITAL THERAPY 2022; 48:567-578. [PMID: 35086440 DOI: 10.1080/0092623x.2021.2022048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Based on the fact that most research drawn from the minority stress theory on the association between minority stress and relationship satisfaction has focused on an individual perspective rather than a dyadic perspective, and the limited evidence of the systemic transactional model (STM) explore the topics of same-sex couples. This study aims to combine both theories to examine the association between perceived discrimination and relationship satisfaction among lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) people on both partners and test the potential mediating role of dyadic stress and sex difference in this association. Using an actor-partner interdependence mediation model (APIMeM), we analyzed data including a sample of 241 LGB couples (133 female and 108 male same-sex dyads). Results showed that perceived discrimination had no direct actor-partner effects on relationship satisfaction. APIMeM revealed significant indirect partner effects from perceived discrimination on both individuals' and their partners' relationship satisfaction through the partner's dyadic stress. Additionally, the effect of personal dyadic stress on a partner's relationship satisfaction was stronger for women compared to men. These findings demonstrated the utility of the minority stress theory and STM framework for understanding the risk of stressors in damaging LGBs' romantic relationships. Couple interventions should integrate knowledge from a dyadic perspective with attention to sex differences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Song
- Department of Experimental Clinical and Health Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Ann Buysse
- Department of Experimental Clinical and Health Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Wei-Hong Zhang
- International Centre for Reproductive Health (ICRH), Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Alexis Dewaele
- Department of Experimental Clinical and Health Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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41
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Measure of Internalized Sexual Stigma for Lesbians and Gay Men (MISS-LG) in Taiwan: Psychometric Evidence from Rasch and Confirmatory Factor Analysis. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph182413352. [PMID: 34948970 PMCID: PMC8703518 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182413352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 12/11/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Internalized sexual stigma may hamper the development of self-identity, social interaction, and intimate relationship in lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) individuals. The Measure of Internalized Sexual Stigma for Lesbians and Gay Men (MISS-LG) is an important instrument assessing internalized sexual stigma for LGB individuals. However, its psychometric properties have not been examined in LGB populations outside the Italian community. The present study used advanced psychometric testing to evaluate the traditional Chinese version (the MISS-LG) among LGB individuals in Taiwan. LGB individuals (500 male, 500 female) participated in this study and completed the MISS-LG, HIV and Homosexuality Related Stigma (HHRS), and Acceptance and Action Questionnaire-II (AAQ). Confirmatory factor analysis results confirmed the three-factor structure of the MISS-LG; however, two items for males and one item for females had somewhat low factor loadings on the sexuality factor. Each MISS-LG factor was found to be unidimensional in Rasch results, except for the slight misfit in Item 3 and concurrent validity of the MISS-LG was supported by the positive correlations with HHRS and the AAQ. The Chinese MISS-LG has relatively satisfactory psychometric properties. However, further research is needed to investigate the reasons for problematic fitting of several items.
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42
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Stammwitz M, Wessler J. A public context with higher minority stress for LGBTQ* couples decreases the enjoyment of public displays of affection. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0259102. [PMID: 34788290 PMCID: PMC8598037 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0259102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
This research investigated whether LGBTQ* minority stress and public displays of affection (PDA; e.g., kissing, hugging) among LGBTQ* couples are context-sensitive. We expected that (a) LQBTQ* minority stress would be more prevalent in a harmful (i.e., city center) versus a less harmful (i.e., university campus) context, and (b) PDA would be reduced for LGBTQ* couples in a harmful context. In three studies, LGBTQ* and Hetero/Cis students (NTotal = 517) reported LGBTQ*-specific minority stress and PDA in the city and on campus. The city center was higher in minority stress than the campus in all studies. Also, LGBTQ* participants' PDA enjoyment was lower in the city than on campus (Studies 1 and 3). Minority stress mediated the context effect on PDA (Study 3). A qualitative analysis illuminated the harmful versus protective natures of public contexts. We conclude that a protective context can powerfully promote healthy LGBTQ* relationship behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Stammwitz
- Department of Social Psychology, Saarland University, Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Janet Wessler
- Department of Social Psychology, Saarland University, Saarbrücken, Germany
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43
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Li X, Cao H, Zhou N, Mills-Koonce R. Internalized Homophobia and Relationship Quality among Same-Sex Couples: The Mediating Role of Intimate Partner Violence. JOURNAL OF HOMOSEXUALITY 2021; 68:1749-1773. [PMID: 31860388 PMCID: PMC7305039 DOI: 10.1080/00918369.2019.1705671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Based on a geographically and socioeconomically diverse sample of 144 same-sex couples and using a dyadic approach (i.e., the Actor-Partner Interdependence Mediation Model [APIMeM] with interchangeable dyads), this study examined the association between internalized homophobia and same-sex relationship quality, and also tested the potential mediating role of intimate partner violence perpetration in this association. Results indicated that individuals' own and their partners' psychological violence perpetration mediated the negative associations from individuals' own internalized homophobia to individuals' own and their partner's relationship quality. Such findings contribute to the understanding of mechanisms underlying the harmful effects of sexual minority stressors for same-sex relationship well-being. Implications for interventions were also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaomin Li
- Department of Family Studies and Human Development, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | - Hongjian Cao
- Faculty of Education, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Nan Zhou
- Faculty of Education, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Roger Mills-Koonce
- School of Education, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
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44
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Oren L. Minority stress in same-gender male romantic relationships: When does it impact relationship commitment? PSYCHOLOGY & SEXUALITY 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/19419899.2021.1969994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Lior Oren
- Department of Psychology and Behavioural Sciences, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
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45
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Doyle DM, Molix L. Reconciling Associations Between Minority Stress and Sexual Minority Romantic Relationship Functioning. Front Psychol 2021; 12:707058. [PMID: 34248806 PMCID: PMC8267149 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.707058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- David Matthew Doyle
- Washington Singer Laboratories, Department of Psychology, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Lisa Molix
- Department of Psychology, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, United States
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46
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Vale MT, Bisconti TL. Minority Stress and Relationship Well-Being in Sexual Minorities: The Varying Role of Outness on Relationship and Sexual Satisfaction. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SEXUAL HEALTH : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE WORLD ASSOCIATION FOR SEXUAL HEALTH 2021; 33:297-311. [PMID: 38595746 PMCID: PMC10903706 DOI: 10.1080/19317611.2021.1909684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2020] [Revised: 02/13/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Objectives: Empirical inquiry has targeted how same-sex couples grapple with unique stressors in their romantic relationships. Meta-analyses demonstrate that the adverse link between minority stress and sexual and relationship well-being is contingent on the type of stressor and relationship component. Methods: We conducted a cross sectional study examining a sample of 238 individuals currently in same-sex relationships. Results: Outness predicted relationship satisfaction, sexual satisfaction, and sexual dissatisfaction relative to other stressors, and depressive symptomatology mediated the minority stressors and relationship well-being associations. Conclusions: The current findings offer practical applications for practitioners working with sexual minority clients and researchers who continue to reveal the boundaries in the minority stress process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael T. Vale
- Department of Psychology, University of Akron, Akron, OH, USA
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47
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Siegel M, Assenmacher C, Meuwly N, Zemp M. The Legal Vulnerability Model for Same-Sex Parent Families: A Mixed Methods Systematic Review and Theoretical Integration. Front Psychol 2021; 12:644258. [PMID: 33796052 PMCID: PMC8007880 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.644258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2020] [Accepted: 02/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Globally, parents and children in same-sex parent families are impacted by many laws related to the parental sexual orientation. These laws vary considerably from one country to another, ranging from full legal recognition to criminalization. The psychological consequences of living in an ambiguous or hostile legal climate likely interfere with parental health, family functioning, and child development. However, a systematic evidence synthesis of the pertinent literature and its placement within a broader psychological model are currently lacking. The aims of this review were thus (1) to systematically review qualitative and quantitative evidence on the impact of sexual orientation laws on same-sex parent families in key domains and (2) to place these findings within a broader model informed by minority stress and family theories. Our review was preregistered and conducted in line with PRISMA guidelines. We searched for qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods studies on the impact of sexual orientation laws on target outcomes (parental health, family functioning, child outcomes) via systematic database search (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science) and forward-backward searches. Fifty-five studies published between 1999 and 2020 were eligible for inclusion and were synthesized using a data-based convergent synthesis design. Thirteen descriptive and three overarching analytical themes were identified through thematic synthesis. Linking our findings with minority stress and family theories, we propose a novel legal vulnerability model for same-sex parent families. The model posits that legal vulnerability constitutes an increased risk for parental and child health as well as family functioning through individual and shared pathways between family members. Additionally, the model introduces counteractions that families engage in on the personal, familial, and systemic level to mitigate the impact of legal vulnerability, as well as moderators on the contextual, familial, couple, and individual level that modulate this impact. Implications for research and clinical practice are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Siegel
- Department of Developmental and Educational Psychology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.,Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
| | | | - Nathalie Meuwly
- Department of Psychology, Institute for Family Research and Counseling, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Martina Zemp
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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48
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Song C, Buysse A, Zhang WH, Lasser J, Dewaele A. Sex Differences in the Romantic Relationships of Same-Gender Couples: The Role of Visibility Management. Psychol Rep 2021; 125:1103-1120. [PMID: 33588647 DOI: 10.1177/0033294120988134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Although internalized homonegativity (IH) in lesbian, gay, or bisexual people (LGBs) predicts adverse relationship satisfaction, this association has typically only been examined on an individual level. Moreover, studies often ignore potential mechanisms that underlie sex differences. One of these mechanisms is related to visibility management (i.e., the careful, planned decisions about whether or not to disclose one's sexual orientation). Therefore, in this study we investigate dyadic sex-specific associations between IH, visibility management, and relationship satisfaction. Our sample includes 254 LGB couples (139 female and 115 male same-gender dyads) in Flanders, Belgium. Data were analyzed with the Actor-Partner Interdependence Mediation Model (APIMeM). Results indicated that there were small to medium significant correlations among IH, visibility management, and relationship satisfaction. We also found support for mediated actor effects: individuals low in IH maintain less restrictive visibility management strategies. These in turn lead to higher relationship satisfaction, but only in female same-gender couples. Our findings contribute to the understanding of mechanisms that underlie the harmful effects of sexual minority stressors for same-gender relationship satisfaction.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ann Buysse
- Department of Experimental Clinical and Health Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, 26656Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Wei-Hong Zhang
- International Centre for Reproductive Health (ICRH), Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, 26656Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jon Lasser
- Department of Counseling, Leadership, Adult Education, and School Psychology, Texas State University, San Marcos, TX, USA
| | - Alexis Dewaele
- Department of Experimental Clinical and Health Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, 26656Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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49
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Sommantico M, Iorio I, Lacatena M, Parrello S. Adult Attachment, Differentiation of Self, and Relationship Satisfaction in Lesbians and Gay Men. CONTEMPORARY FAMILY THERAPY 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s10591-020-09563-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
AbstractWe examined adult attachment styles, differentiation of self, and relationship satisfaction in a sample of 298 Italian lesbians (48%) and gay men (52%), all of whom were ages 19–71 years (M = 36.1; SD = 11.8) and in a couple relationship for at least six months. Participants were recruited via the Internet and completed a web-based survey. We tested the hypotheses that attachment insecurity and differentiation of self would predict relationship satisfaction, as well as that differentiation of self would mediate the relationship between adult attachment and relationship satisfaction. Results supported the hypotheses, thus indicating that attachment insecurity and differentiation of self were correlated with and predicted relationship satisfaction. Furthermore, results supported the hypothesized mediating role of differentiation of self. Finally, results indicated that younger participants, lesbians, and participants in civil unions reported higher levels of relationship satisfaction. Implications for counselors and therapists working with LG populations are discussed.
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50
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Newcomb ME. Romantic relationships and sexual minority health: A review and description of the Dyadic Health Model. Clin Psychol Rev 2020; 82:101924. [PMID: 33002795 PMCID: PMC10472923 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpr.2020.101924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Revised: 09/05/2020] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
A large body of literature has documented the health promotive effects of healthy committed relationships on the health and wellbeing of heterosexual people in different-sex relationships, including observational and longitudinal studies, couple-based intervention development and evaluation efforts, and articulation of theoretical frameworks. A much smaller but growing field of research has observed that same-sex relationships have similar effects on health outcomes but that these couples face unique stressors that may impact relationship functioning and health. Further, extant theoretical frameworks do not sufficiently address the multiple pathways by which psychosocial vulnerabilities and stressors impact same-sex relationship functioning, engagement in health-related risk behaviors, and the mental and physical health of sexual minorities in relationships. The purpose of this manuscript is to: a) review the existing literature on relationship functioning and health among sexual minorities, including both observational and intervention studies; and b) present an integrated model of relationship functioning and health for same-sex couples that can be used as a basis for further studies on sexual minority dyads, as well as the development of novel couple-based interventions to optimize the health promoting effects of relationships.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael E Newcomb
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States of America; Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States of America.
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