Adverse Childhood Experiences Related to Poor Adult Health Among Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Individuals

Identifying pathways from childhood adversity to suicidal thoughts and behaviors among sexual minority adults: An exploratory mediation analysis

BACKGROUND

The current study uses a nationally representative longitudinal dataset of sexual minority adults in the US to investigate the pathways from adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) to adulthood suicidal thoughts and behaviors.

METHODS

ACEs were measured at year one, potential mediators at year two, and suicidal thoughts and behaviors (suicidal ideation, intent, plan, and attempt) at year three. We conducted an exploratory mediation analysis to identify potential mediating factors linking ACEs to suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Ten candidate mediators were examined: social well-being, felt stigma, experiences of everyday discrimination, social support, psychological distress, alcohol and drug use, importance of sexual identity, community connection, and internalized homophobia.

RESULTS

Participants were 1518 adults who identified as lesbian or gay (n = 833; 55 %), bisexual (n = 493; 33 %), or with other sexual minority identities (n = 181; 12 %) and were on average 36.48 years (SD = 14.7) of age. Psychological distress served as a common mediator between ACEs and suicidal ideation, intent, plan, and attempt. Additionally, experiences of everyday discrimination emerged as a specific mediator leading to suicidal intent, whereas social support uniquely mediated the relation between ACEs and suicide plan.

LIMITATIONS

Potential recall bias due to retrospective reporting of ACEs may be a limitation. Future studies should broaden the measurement scope of ACEs and implement intersectional methods.

CONCLUSION

The current findings underscore the urgent need for targeted interventions that address the specific mental health needs of sexual minority individuals, particularly focusing on mitigating psychological distress, combating systemic discrimination, and enhancing social support.

Associations Between Trauma and Health Behaviors and Outcomes Among Sexual Minoritized Adults: A Scoping Review

Sexual minoritized (SM) adults experience health disparities and report higher rates of trauma history compared to heterosexual adults. This scoping review synthesizes the extant literature that investigates associations between trauma and physical health among SM adults. It also describes research instruments utilized to assess trauma in relation to health outcomes among SM adults. We searched CINAHL, LGBT+ Life, PsycINFO, and PubMed to identify studies meeting inclusion criteria: peer-reviewed, English, assessed trauma as an independent variable, and assessed health behaviors or outcomes among SM adults. From 587 nonduplicate articles, 69 full texts were reviewed; 18 met criteria and were included in this review. To enhance rigor, we utilized the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis Scoping Reviews checklist. Most (n = 12) of the included studies were cross-sectional. Trauma was assessed 16 different ways, including 9 validated measures, in relation to 5 health behaviors and 17 health conditions. Trauma was operationalized by history of childhood sexual abuse, adverse childhood experiences, lifetime rape, current symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder, and lifetime victimization among SM adults. All but one study found associations between trauma and one or more unfavorable health behaviors or outcomes. Studies used widely heterogeneous instruments to assess trauma, health, and SM identity. Greater specification and standardization of measurement is needed, along with contextualized assessments of trauma and its impact on health such as sexual minority stress-related victimization and resilience, and post-traumatic growth and recovery processes.

Characterizing Chronic Pain and Adverse Childhood Experiences in the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, or Queer Community

BACKGROUND

Childhood adversity is associated with chronic pain in adulthood. Additionally, individuals identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer (LGBTQ+) report a greater prevalence of chronic pain and increased adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). While the LGTBQ+ community has a disproportionately high chronic disease burden, limited research has been conducted on the associations between chronic pain conditions or intensity and childhood adversity in this population.

METHODS

In this cross-sectional study, participants were 18 years or older, LGBTQ+ identifying, and reported chronic pain. Surveys were electronically distributed from August to November 2022 via LGBTQ+ organization email listservs and social media platforms. The survey included demographics and validated questionnaires measuring chronic pain (The Chronic Pain Questionnaire) and childhood adversity (ACE score). In analysis, ACE scores of 4 or more were defined as high.

RESULTS

Responses from 136 individuals (average age of 29 ± 7.4 years) were analyzed. The mean for participants' average pain rating in the last 6 months was 5.9 of 10. Participants' worst pain was rated at least a 7 of 10 for 80% of respondents. Half (47%) had high ACE scores, and high ACE scores were significantly associated with higher average pain scores (6.27 ± 1.79, mean difference = -2.22, P = .028, 95% confidence interval [CI], -1.2 to -0.0), and higher perceived current pain ratings (4.53 ± 2.16, mean difference = -2.78, P = .007, 95% CI, -1.9 to -0.3). Transgender and gender diverse (TGD) participants (n = 75) had higher ACE scores (3.91 ± 1.78) and current pain scores compared to cisgender individuals (3.9 ± 1.8 vs 3.0 ± 1.9, P = .009, 95% CI, 0.0-0.3). History of any sexual trauma was prevalent in 36.7% and was associated with chronic pain located in the pelvic region ( P = .016, effect size estimate 0.21). Specific histories of forced sexual and touch encounters were associated with a specific diagnosis of fibromyalgia ( P = .008, effect size estimate 0.31 and P = .037, effect size estimate 0.31, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Childhood adversity and chronic pain's dose-dependent relationship among our LGBTQ+ sample indicates a need to explore trauma's role in perceived pain. Given sexual trauma's association with pain location and diagnosis, type of trauma may also be crucial in understanding chronic pain development. Research into the relationships between childhood adversity, sexuality, gender identity, and chronic pain could improve chronic pain prevention and management for the LGBTQ+ community.

Sexual Abuse, Commercial Sexual Exploitation, and Cumulative Adversity Among Sexually Diverse and Non-Sexually Diverse Girls in the Juvenile Justice System

Despite awareness about high rates of sexual abuse among girls in the juvenile justice system, little is known about the additional risk conferred upon sexually diverse (SD) youths, as well as the combined vulnerability of sexual abuse and commercial sexual exploitation of children (CSEC) - frequently a survival behavior amplifying disproportionate juvenile justice contact among SD and non-SD juvenile justice-involved (JJI) girls. In a sample of JJI-girls, we compared SD (n = 52) with non-SD (n = 46) JJI-girls on sexual victimization (e.g. sexual abuse occurring within different relationship-types, CSEC), and broader developmental adversity burden disadvantage (cumulative trauma/loss exposure-types) and distress (posttraumatic stress disorder [PTSD]; cumulative stressor-reactivity, grief-specific, and adversity-related symptoms), health distress/impairment, and sexual and physical health-risk indicators. While comparable on childhood sexual abuse frequency, SD JJI-girls reported greater cumulative sexual abuse severity across relationship-types, higher sexual abuse within non-familial contexts, and more CSEC involvement. They also reported more social determinants of health (e.g. trauma/loss exposure-types) and showed elevations on all health-risk indicators, and most cumulative adversity burden indicators, despite comparable PTSD severity. Our findings emphasize the need to consider multiple sexual victimization facets, including the combined vulnerability of sexual abuse and CSEC, and utilize cumulative developmental assessment approaches among youths vulnerable to maltreatment and exploitation.

From Early Trauma to Cardiovascular Risk Among a Nationally Representative Sample of Young Adults

This study aimed to investigate the connection between childhood abuse history and cardiovascular health indicators among a nationally representative sample of young adults aged 24-32. Using data from waves three and four of the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health (n = 4, 164) multivariate logistic regression was employed to investigate childhood trauma (i.e., childhood physical abuse, sexual abuse, and neglect) as predictors for cardiovascular disease, hypertension, high cholesterol, diabetes, and obesity. Results showed that adults who reported history of sexual abuse were 4.3 times more likely to report diagnosis of cardiovascular disease and those who reported childhood physical abuse at wave three had 1.4 times the odds of reporting high cholesterol diagnosis. Although trauma history is often calculated as a composite, some forms of childhood abuse may have greater impacts on cardiovascular risk than others.

Adverse Childhood Experiences and Health Outcomes Among Sexual and Gender Minorities: A Systematic Review

Current research indicates a strong association between adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and adverse health outcomes. Participants in frequently cited ACE research are predominantly heterosexual and cis gendered; the extent to which ACEs affect health outcomes among sexual and gender minorities (SGMs) is unclear. This systematic review examined the frequency of, and relationship between, ACEs and negative health outcomes among SGM. CINAHL, MEDLINE, PsycARTICLES, PsycINFO, Scopus, and PubMed databases were searched with no date restriction. After eliminating duplicates, titles and abstracts were reviewed resulting in 22 articles to be critiqued using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist for Analytical Cross-Sectional Studies. A total of 22 studies met final inclusion criteria. The frequency of reporting at least one ACE among SGMs ranged from 51.4 to 91.6%, while the frequency of reporting four or more ACEs ranged from 18.1 to 60.7%. SGMs reported a higher frequency of ACEs than non-SGM. ACEs were associated with poorer mental and physical health outcomes, as well as increased risky behavior among SGMs. SGMs report a high frequency of ACEs, but current studies did not include data regarding ongoing stigma and adversities that may further contribute to their negative health outcomes. Further research is needed to fully understand the impact of adversities experienced due to the sexual and/or gender orientation of this minority group.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40653-023-00576-4.

Impulsivity, sex-related alcohol expectancies, alcohol use, and sexual risk-taking among bisexual women

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

According to the acquired preparedness model, personality traits, such as impulsivity, may influence the learning process, contributing to heightened expectations surrounding risky behaviors (i.e., alcohol use, sexual risk-taking). As bisexual women demonstrate heightened risk for hazardous alcohol- and sex-related behaviors, the present study examined a sequential pathway, whereby the relation between impulsivity and sexual risk-taking is mediated through sex-related alcohol expectancies and alcohol use.

METHODS

Data were collected from 225 self-identified cisgender, bisexual women between the ages of 18 and 30 years (M = 22.77, SD = 3.45), who participated in an online survey. Participants reported on impulsivity, sex-related alcohol expectancies, alcohol use, and experiences of sexual risk-taking.

RESULTS

Results revealed that sex-related alcohol expectancies and alcohol use sequentially mediated the relation between impulsivity and sexual risk-taking. Thus, greater impulsivity was related to greater sexual risk-taking through heightened sex-related alcohol expectancies and elevated alcohol use.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS

Findings from this study highlight mechanisms associated with risky drinking and sexual behaviors among this at-risk population. Such information could aid the development of more efficacious prevention and intervention programs aimed at reducing consequences associated with alcohol use and sexual risk-taking among bisexual women.

SCIENTIFIC SIGNIFICANCE

Bisexual women are at heightened risk for alcohol-related problems, including sexual risk-taking. Findings from the current study identify impulsivity and sex-related alcohol expectancies as independent and integrative predictors of such risky behaviors. Incorporation of these constructs may aid in the development of more efficacious clinical methods aimed at bettering health outcomes among bisexual women.

Evaluating the Psychometric Properties of the Sexual and Gender Minority Adverse Childhood Experiences Scale Among Sexual Minority Men and Women

BACKGROUND

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are known determinants of negative health outcomes. Sexual and gender minority (SGM) individuals have higher ACE scores than non-SGM individuals. The SGM-ACE scale was developed to better assess this population but is not yet validated in SGM subgroups.

AIMS

This study aims to validate the sexual and gender minority adverse childhood experiences (SGM-ACE) scale among sexual minority men (SMM) and sexual minority women (SMW), while testing measurement invariance across both groups.

METHODS

A cross-sectional survey included 530 sexual minority adults (265 men, 265 women) in the United States. Cronbach's alpha established internal consistency reliability. Validity was assessed via confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) for the SGM-ACE's theoretical structure and Pearson's correlations for concurrent validity with substance use outcomes (alcohol, cannabis, and drugs). Multigroup structural equation modeling (SEM) determined measurement invariance between SMM and SMW.

RESULTS

The CFA of the original model exhibited good fit. Fit was improved after removing the institutionalization item, chi-square (χ2) = 14.26, degrees of freedom (df) = 9, p = 0.113, minimum discrepancy (CMIN/df) = 1.59, comparative fit index (CFI) = 0.99, root mean square error of approximation (RMSEA) = 0.03, 90% confidence interval (CI): (0.00-0.06), and standardized root mean square residual (SRMR) = 0.02. Internal consistency reliability was established (α = 0.78). SGM-ACE exhibited weak, yet significant relationships with each substance use outcome. Multigroup SEM indicated measurement invariance between SMM and SMW.

CONCLUSION

This study provides psychometric validation of the SGM-ACE, establishing measurement invariance between SMM and SMW. Future research should explore its utility in diverse SGM minority subgroups.

Adverse childhood experiences among black sexually minoritized men and Black transgender women in Chicago

BACKGROUND

Adverse childhood experiences (ACE) are important predictors of mental health outcomes in adulthood. However, commonly used ACE measures such as the Behavioural Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) have not been validated among Black sexually minoritized men (SMM) nor transgender women (TW), whom are known to have higher rates of ACE and poorer mental health outcomes. Assessing the psychometric properties of the measure is important for health equity research, as measurements that are not valid for some populations will render uninterpretable results.

METHODS

Data are drawn from the Neighborhoods and Networks (N2) study, a longitudinal cohort of Black SMM and TW living in Southern Chicago. We conducted confirmatory factor analysis, correlation analysis and a two-parameter Item Response Theory (IRT) on the BRFSS ACE measure, an 11-item measure with 8 domains of ACE.

RESULTS

One hundred forty seven participants (85% cisgender male) completed the BRFSS ACE measurement in the N2 study with age ranges from 16-34. The cohort were from a low socioeconomic background: about 40% of the cohort were housing insecure and made than $10,000 or less annually. They also have a high number of ACEs; 34% had endorsed 4 or more ACE domains. The three-factor structure fit the BRFSS ACE measure best; the measurement consisted of three subscales: of "Household Dysfunction", "Emotional / Physical", and "Sexual Abuse" (CFI = 0.975, TLI = 0.967, and RMSEA = 0.051). When the 8 domains of ACE were summed to one score, the total score was is correlated with depressive symptoms and anxiety scores, establishing concurrent validity. Item Response Theory model indicated that the "parental separation" domain had a low discrimination (slope) parameter, suggesting that this domain does not distinguish well between those with and without high ACE.

CONCLUSIONS

The BRFFS ACE measure had adequate reliability, a well-replicated structure and some moderate evidence of concurrent validity among Black SMM and TW. The parental separation domain does not discriminate between those with high and low ACE experiences in this population. With changing population demographics and trends in marriage, further examination of this item beyond the current study is warranted to improve health equity research for all.

Examining Measurement Invariance in the Personality Inventory for DSM-5 Brief Form Across Sexual and Gender Minority Status

The Personality Inventory for Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, Brief Form (PID-5-BF) was developed with an assumption of invariance across sexual and gender minority (SGM) individuals. This assumption has yet to be tested empirically. Using multigroup confirmatory factor analysis, we examined measurement invariance in the PID-5-BF across the SGM status in clinical (N = 1,174; n = 254 SGM) and nonclinical (N = 1,456; n = 151 SGM) samples. Measurement invariance was supported for the PID-5-BF structure, item thresholds, and factor loadings, but not at the item intercept level. SGM individuals endorsed higher negative affectivity, antagonism, disinhibition, and psychoticism domains in both samples. In the clinical sample, adjusting for partial invariance decreased detachment and antagonism levels for SGM persons. In the nonclinical sample, adjusting for partial invariance reduced antagonism disparities in the SGM group, even rendering original group differences null. Our results support the use of the PID-5-BF in SGM populations but indicate that some measurement bias may drive observed disparities in maladaptive trait domains and, in turn, personality disorder diagnosis.

Adverse Childhood Experiences and Sexual Orientation: An Intersectional Analysis of Nationally Representative Data

INTRODUCTION

This study compared the prevalence of adverse childhood experiences across intersections of sexual orientation, gender, race/ethnicity, and economic status.

METHODS

Data collected between 1994 and 2018 from 12,519 participants in the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health were analyzed in 2023 to generate adverse childhood experience prevalence estimates. Unadjusted 1-way ANOVAs and multivariate regressions were performed to compare differences in independent and cumulative adversity measures by sexual orientation, gender, race/ethnicity, and poverty status. A multilevel analysis of individual heterogeneity and discriminatory accuracy was conducted to estimate adversity scores across 24 groups that were stratified by sexual orientation, gender, race/ethnicity, and poverty status.

RESULTS

Adolescents with same-sex attractions and adults who identified with a sexual minority group reported more adverse childhood experiences overall than straight participants, although associations varied by type of adversity. Strikingly, adversity scores were higher among White youth with same-sex attractions than among Black youth with same-sex attractions, among more economically advantaged bisexual adults than among poorer ones, and among poor White participants than among poor Black and Hispanic participants, suggesting that the combination of disadvantaged and marginalized statuses does not necessarily correspond with greater childhood adversity. A multilevel analysis of individual heterogeneity and discriminatory accuracy interaction model showed that sexual orientation and poverty status contributed significant variance to cumulative adversity scores, whereas gender and race/ethnicity did not.

CONCLUSIONS

The results show that disparities in adverse experiences can be more fully and accurately represented when sexual orientation and other social identities are modeled as intersectional configurations. Given that adverse childhood experiences are linked to morbidity and mortality, the findings have salient implications for understanding health disparities that affect population subgroups.

Higher Risk of Many Physical Health Conditions in Sexual Minority Men: Comprehensive Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis in Gay- and Bisexual-Identified Compared with Heterosexual-Identified Men

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to provide a systematic review and, where possible, meta-analysis on the prevalence of physical health conditions in sexual minority men (SMM, i.e., gay- and bisexual-identified men) compared with heterosexual-identified men. Methods: A systematic literature search in the databases MEDLINE, Embase, CENTRAL, CINAHL, and Web of Science was conducted on epidemiological studies on physical health conditions, classified in the Global Burden of Disease project and published between 2000 and 2021. Meta-analyses comparing odds ratios were calculated. Results: In total, 23,649 abstracts were screened, and 32 studies were included in the systematic review. Main findings were that (1) Largest differences in prevalence by sexual identity were found for chronic respiratory diseases, particularly asthma: overall, SMM were significantly almost 50% more likely to suffer from asthma than heterosexual men. (2) Evidence of higher prevalence was also found for chronic kidney diseases and headache disorders in gay men and for hepatitis B/C in both gay and bisexual men. (3) We found an overall trend that bisexual men were more affected by some of the physical health conditions compared with gay men (e.g., cardiovascular diseases, asthma). However, regarding cancer, headache disorders, and hepatitis, gay men were more affected. Conclusion: We found evidence of physical health disparities by sexual identity, suggesting more health issues in SMM. Since some of these findings rely on few comparisons or small samples of SMM only, this review is intended to be a vehement plea for routinely including sexual identity assessment in health research and clinical practice.

General self-efficacy as a mediator of the association between adverse childhood experiences and psychological distress in gender-minority individuals

PURPOSE

To investigate the mediating role of general self-efficacy (i.e., belief in one's competence to cope with a broad range of stressful or challenging demands) in the relationship between adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and psychological distress (i.e., symptoms of stress, anxiety and depression) in gender minority individuals, which include people with a gender identity that is not aligned with their sex assigned at birth.

DESIGN AND METHODS

The study sample included gender minority participants who participated in Waves 4 and 5 of Project AFFIRM, a multi-site longitudinal study of gender minority health. ACEs, general self-efficacy, and psychological distress were measured using the Behavior Risk Factor Surveillance System ACE Module at Wave 4, the PROMIS General self-efficacy measure at Wave 4, and the Brief Symptoms Inventory Global Severity Index (GSI) at Wave 5, respectively. After adjustment for covariates, including age, race, sex assigned at birth, and income, multivariable linear regression analyses were conducted to assess each component of the proposed mediation model. Next, mediation analyses were used to determine whether general self-efficacy mediated the association between ACEs and psychological distress.

FINDINGS

The sample for this study consisted of 166 gender minority adults with a mean age of 38.6 ± 12.2 years. Most were non-Hispanic White (46.4%) and female assigned at birth (59.6%). Mean ACEs score was 3.2 ± 2.1 (range 0-8), mean general self-efficacy score was 13.9 ± 3.6 (range 4-20), and mean raw-score GSI was 17.3 ± 13.7 (range 0-64). Participants who reported experiencing more ACEs had greater psychological distress (B 1.60; 95% CI = 0.66, 2.54) and lower general self-efficacy (B -0.41; 95% CI = -0.67, -0.15). In addition, lower general self-efficacy was associated with higher psychological distress (B -1.06; 95% CI = -1.61, -0.51). Bootstrap estimation of the indirect effect was significant (95% CI = 0.14, 0.90) and explained 27.1% (95% CI = 7.76, 69.76) of the total effect of ACEs on psychological distress in gender minority adults.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that general self-efficacy partially mediated the positive association between ACEs and psychological distress in gender minority adults. Interventions that aim to improve general self-efficacy may be beneficial in alleviating psychological distress in gender minority adults.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Nurses can play an important role in reducing the health risks associated with ACEs by screening gender minority individuals using a trauma-informed approach to care and offering resources and referrals, as appropriate.

Adverse Childhood Experiences, Acculturation, and Risky Sexual Behaviors in Hispanic Young Adults: Findings from Project RED

While adverse childhood experiences (ACE) are well-documented predictors of maladaptive behaviors in adulthood, including risky sexual behaviors (RSB), the influence of acculturation in this association remains unknown. Although Hispanics are a rapidly growing population in the United States and are disproportionately affected by adverse sexual health outcomes, there is a paucity of research examining the interplay of ACE, acculturation, and RSB in this population. We observed the ACE-RSB association and how this relationship varies across U.S. and Hispanic acculturation levels, in a sample of Hispanic young adults (n = 715). Data for this study were from Project RED, a longitudinal study of Hispanic health. We ran regression models to test associations between ACE (0, 1-3, 4+) and several RSB (e.g., early sexual initiation (≤14 years), condomless sex, lifetime sexual partners, and alcohol/drug use before intercourse), and assessed moderation by U.S./Hispanic acculturation. Compared with those without ACE, individuals with 4 + ACE had higher odds of early sexual initiation (AOR: 2.23), alcohol/drug use before last intercourse (AOR: 2.31), and condomless sex (AOR: 1.66), as well as a higher number of lifetime sexual partners (β: 0.60). For those reporting 4 + ACE, high U.S. acculturation was protective in the association between ACE and using alcohol/drugs before intercourse. Future research implications are discussed.

The Sexual and Gender Minority Adverse Childhood Experiences Scale

INTRODUCTION

Sexual and gender minority (SGM) adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are identity-based forms of early life adversity. Exposure to SGM ACEs is associated with increased odds of depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder in SGM adults. The purpose of this study was to further test a revised version of the measure in a U.S. sample with more robust and clinically relevant mental health outcomes.

METHODS

In May and June 2022, a national sample of SGM adults (N=4,445) was recruited from a Qualtrics Panel to complete a 20-minute online survey that included questions regarding ACEs, SGM ACEs, depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis were used to examine factor structure. Multivariable regression was used to assess criterion validity, and a sensitivity analysis was conducted. Data were analyzed in February 2023.

RESULTS

Respondents indicate that vicarious trauma (81%) and school bullying (67%) were the most common experiences and that all SGM ACEs were frequently occurring before adulthood. Confirmatory factor analysis determined a 1-factor solution. Participants with more SGM adverse childhood experiences exposure had worse anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms (β=0.16, β=0.18, β=0.26, respectively, p<0.0001) after controlling for ACEs exposure and demographic factors. A sensitivity analysis indicated that estimates were similar in terms of magnitude and direction.

CONCLUSIONS

SGM ACEs commonly and frequently occur before adulthood and impact adult SGM mental health. Overall, the measure had good-to-excellent psychometric properties. Future research should consider integrating SGM ACEs and Minority Stress Theory.

Health Disparities Among Sexual and Gender Minorities With Adverse Childhood Experiences: Insights From the 2021 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System Data

Objectives. To identify the prevalence of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) among sexual or gender minorities (SGMs) and examine the impact of ACEs on their health. Methods. We analyzed 2021 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) data. Respondents from Arkansas, Iowa, Mississippi, Nevada, and Wisconsin completed modules on 10 individual ACEs, sexual orientation and gender identity, and health. Results. Among the 38 483 eligible respondents, 2329 (6.1%) identified as an SGM. SGMs reported higher ACE prevalence than did their non-SGM counterparts. ACEs partially attenuated relationships between SGMs and a higher risk for depression, cardiovascular disease, chronic kidney disease, electronic nicotine delivery system use, and cannabis use. Conclusions. Evaluating and better understanding the ACE and health outcome relationship among SGMs should be prioritized. Targeted interventions are needed to mitigate the impact of ACE-associated sequelae in this population. (Am J Public Health. 2023;113(12):1343-1351. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2023.307420).

Adverse Childhood Experiences, Substance Use, and Self-Reported Substance Use Problems Among Sexual and Gender Diverse Individuals: Moderation by History of Mental Illness

Recent research has highlighted the alarmingly high rates at which sexual and gender diverse (SGD) individuals experience Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE). ACE, in turn, are strongly related to mental illness-an important correlate of substance use. The present study explores whether mental illness moderates the relationship between ACE and substance use outcomes among SGD adults. As part of a larger community-based participatory research study, we assessed ACE, self-reported mental illness, and past-year substance use and misuse among a large and diverse sample of SGD community members in South Central Texas (n = 1,282). Multivariate logistic regression models were used to assess relationships between ACE, mental illness, substance use, and substance misuse (DAST > 3). Interaction terms between ACE and history of mental illness were created to assess moderation effects. Cumulative ACE scores were associated with a significantly higher odds of self-reported past year substance use (AOR = 1.43, 95% CI = 1.34-1.54) and substance misuse (AOR = 1.21, 95% CI = 1.11-1.32). History of mental illness was associated with an increased odds of self-reported substance misuse (AOR = 2.07, 95% CI = 1.20-3.55), but not past year substance use. There was a significant interaction of ACE and history of mental illness on the odds of past year substance use (AOR = 0.78, 95% CI = 0.69-0.89), but not for substance misuse. These results provide support for theoretical models linking ACE, mental illness, and substance use among SGD adults. Longitudinal research designs are needed to address temporality of outcomes and test mediation models of trauma, mental illness, and substance use. Future directions for prevention and intervention are discussed.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40653-023-00560-y.

Measuring the prevalence and impact of adverse childhood experiences in the lives of LGBTQ individuals: A much-needed expansion

BACKGROUND

Numerous studies indicate that LGBTQ people have extensive experiences with adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), more so than their heterosexual and cisgender counterparts. Research also shows that LGBTQ youth endure traumatic experiences with victimization, including bullying, harassment, and violence, based on their non-hetero-cis-normative genders and/or sexual identities. Yet, most ACE measurement strategies fail to: (1) explicitly link the risk of ACE exposure to the discrimination and stigmatization of LGBTQ people, and (2) account for the breadth of potential ACE exposure in LGBTQ populations.

OBJECTIVE

In the current article, we develop and present a more comprehensive ACE measurement strategy for understanding the cumulative and deleterious impacts of ACEs in the lives of LGBTQ individuals.

METHODS

Here, we offer three expansions to the current ACE framework: (1) the inclusion of an LGBTQ-specific ACE in addition to the standard ACE measures, (2) the addition of LGBTQ qualifiers for current ACE items (when applicable), and (3) the expansion of ACE measures to capture the unique ACE experiences of LGBTQ individuals in family life, schools, and faith communities.

CONCLUSIONS

The implementation of a more comprehensive ACE measurement strategy will assist scholars and policymakers in better understanding the impacts of ACEs in the lives of LGBTQ individuals. In all, ACE measurement strategies that capture the breath of exposure of ACEs in the lives of LGBTQ individuals will assist in ACE screening, public health policy, and clinical intervention efforts.

The Relationship Between Adverse Childhood Experiences and Subjective Cognitive Decline Based on Sexual Orientation

OBJECTIVES

Research indicates adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) were associated with subjective cognitive decline (SCD), with higher ACEs reported by sexual minoritized individuals (i.e. lesbian, gay, and bisexual; LGB). This study aimed to explore the relationships between ACEs and SCD based on sexual orientation in middle-aged and older adults.

METHODS

The study included 76,592 participants from the 2019-2020 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance Survey (BRFSS). Multivariate logistic regressions analyzed ACEs status, score, and type associations with SCD.

RESULTS

2.18% of the participants identified as sexual minoritized individuals. More sexual minoritized individuals reported SCD compared to heterosexual individuals (10.70% for heterosexuals; 17.27% for sexual minoritized individuals). Positive association between SCD and ACEs status (OR = 2.18, 95%CI: 1.09-4.40) was identified among sexual minoritized individuals.

CONCLUSIONS

The association between ACEs and SCD was strong in both heterosexual and sexual minoritized populations. Given the higher experience of ACEs among sexual minoritized adults, the subsequent frequency of SCD among these adults also may be higher.

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

Sexual minoritized older adults may have a history of numerous ACEs, which could contribute to a greater burden of SCD. Clinicians and other stakeholders may wish to consider relationships between ACEs and SCD based on sexual orientation.

Adverse Childhood Experiences, Preventive Care Utilization, and Patient-Nurse Trust Relationship Among Sexual and Gender Minority Individuals

BACKGROUND

Individuals who identify as sexual and gender minorities often experience high rates of adverse childhood experiences and encounter discrimination and stigma in their interactions with healthcare providers, leading to low utilization of healthcare services. However, the relationship between adverse childhood experiences, preventive care utilization, and trust in nurses among sexual and gender minority individuals remains unclear.

PURPOSE

This study explored the relationship between adverse childhood experiences and preventive care use and assessed the potential interaction effects of trust in nurses between adverse childhood experiences and preventive care use among individuals from sexual and gender minorities.

METHODS

A cross-sectional design was used. A sample of 160 self-reported individuals from sexual and gender minorities completed an electronic online survey. Multiple linear regression and moderation analyses were conducted to examine the association between adverse childhood experiences, preventive care utilization, and nurse trust.

RESULTS

There was a significant negative relationship between adverse childhood experiences and preventive care utilization. There was also a significant positive relationship between trust and preventive care utilization. The results also indicated that trust in nurses moderated the relationship between adverse childhood experiences and preventive care utilization among sexual and gender minority individuals.

DISCUSSION

A significant relationship was found between a high prevalence of adverse childhood experiences and low healthcare service utilization. Strengthening the trust relationship between nurses and sexual and gender minority individuals could serve as a potential intervention point, leading to improved health outcomes for this vulnerable population. Hence, enhancing trust in nurses could be a key factor in increasing healthcare service utilization and overall health outcomes.

Associations of adverse and protective childhood experiences with thwarted belongingness, perceived burdensomeness, and suicide risk among sexual minority men

BACKGROUND

Sexual minority men (SMM) experience higher suicidal ideation and suicide attempts than the general population. We examined the associations of adverse childhood experiences (ACES) and protective and compensatory childhood experiences (PACES) with suicidal ideation and suicide attempts in adulthood via thwarted belongingness and perceived burdensomeness among SMM.

METHODS

Data are from the UNITE study, a national longitudinal cohort study of HIV-negative SMM from the 50 U.S. states and Puerto Rico. Between 2017 and 2019, participants (N = 6303) completed web-based assessments at baseline and 12-month follow-up. ACES and PACES occurring before the age of 18, and current symptoms of thwarted belongingness and perceived burdensomeness were assessed at baseline. Past-week suicidal ideation and past-year suicide attempt were assessed at follow-up.

RESULTS

424 (6.7%) participants reported past-week suicidal ideation and 123 (2.0%) reported a past-year suicide attempt. The results of our multivariate model suggest that each additional adverse childhood experience was prospectively associated with 14% higher odds of past-week suicidal ideation (AOR = 1.14, 95% CI 1.09-1.19) and 19% higher odds of past-year suicide attempt (AOR = 1.19, 95% CI 1.11-1.29). Each additional protective childhood experience was prospectively associated with 15% lower odds of past-week suicidal ideation (AOR = 0.85, 95% CI 0.81-0.90) and 11% lower odds of past-year suicide attempt (AOR = 0.89, 95% CI 0.82-0.98). Perceived burdensomeness partially mediated these prospective associations.

CONCLUSION

To reduce suicide, screening and treating perceived burdensomeness among SMM with high ACES may be warranted. PACES may decrease perceived burdensomeness and associated suicide risk.

Open Trial of Trauma-Focused Psychodynamic Psychotherapy for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Among LGBTQ Individuals

OBJECTIVE

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) individuals report higher rates of exposure to traumatic events and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) compared with heterosexual and cisgender individuals. No treatment outcomes research has focused on PTSD in the LGBTQ population. Trauma-focused psychodynamic psychotherapy (TFPP) is a brief, manualized, attachment- and affect-focused psychotherapy for PTSD. TFPP explicitly incorporates broad identity-related and societal factors into its conceptualization of trauma and its consequences, which may be especially helpful for LGBTQ patients with minority stress who seek affirmative care.

METHODS

Fourteen LGBTQ patients with PTSD, assessed with the Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale for DSM-5 (CAPS-5), received 24 sessions of twice-weekly (12 weeks) TFPP via teletherapy provided by supervised early-career therapists inexperienced in the modality. Sessions were videotaped to monitor therapists' treatment adherence. Patients were assessed at baseline, week 5, termination (week 12), and 3 months posttreatment for PTSD symptoms (assessed with the CAPS-5) and secondary outcomes.

RESULTS

TFPP was well tolerated by patients, with 12 (86%) completing the intervention. CAPS-5-measured PTSD symptoms, including dissociation, significantly improved during treatment (mean decrease=-21.8, d=-1.98), and treatment gains were maintained at follow-up. Most patients experienced PTSD clinical response (N=10, 71%) or diagnostic remission (N=7, 50%). Patients generally experienced significant, concomitant improvements in complex PTSD symptoms, general anxiety, depression, and psychosocial functioning. Adherence to the intervention among therapists was high, with 93% of rated sessions meeting adherence standards.

CONCLUSIONS

TFPP shows promise in the treatment of PTSD among sexual and gender minority patients seeking LGBTQ-affirmative PTSD care.

Screening for adverse childhood experiences among young people using drugs in Vietnam: related factors and clinical implications

BACKGROUND

Research evidence shows a strong association between adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and later-life substance use. But little is known about the prevalence and impact of ACEs among young people using drugs (YPUD) in Vietnam.

METHOD

A cross-sectional study using respondent-driven sampling and peer recruitment methods was conducted among YPUD aged 16-24 in three cities in Vietnam. Eligible participants were screened for ACEs using the ACE-IQ, tested for HIV and hepatitis C, and assessed for sociodemographic and behavioral characteristics.

RESULTS

Data were collected on 553 individuals whose median age was 20: 79% were male, 18.3% women and 2.7% transgender. Methamphetamine use was reported by 75.8% of participants. 85.5% reported at least one ACE and 27.5% had four ACEs or more. An ACE score of 4 or higher was associated with female and transgender, lower educational level, methamphetamine use, buying sex, depression, psychotic symptoms and expressed need for mental health support.

CONCLUSIONS

ACEs were found to be very common among YPUD in Vietnam. It is therefore strongly recommended that these young people should be provided with a comprehensive and secure assessment and care that includes not only essential harm reduction and addiction treatment needs but also addresses their mental health needs.

Higher Prevalence of Adverse Childhood Experiences in Transgender Than in Cisgender Individuals: Results from a Single-Center Observational Study

Adverse childhood experiences (ACE) have been shown to have a tremendous negative impact on health outcomes later in life. This study presents data on the prevalence of ACEs, psychological distress, and trauma-related symptoms in transgender and gender-diverse (TGD) people compared to cisgender people. TGD adults (n = 35) and a matched sample of nonpsychiatric hospital patients (n = 35) were surveyed between September 2018 and March 2019. Participants completed the Maltreatment and Abuse Chronology of Exposure Scale to assess ACEs, as well as the Brief Symptom Inventory and the Essener Trauma Inventory to assess psychological distress and trauma-related symptoms. TGD patients reported a higher number of ACEs than cisgender patients (0.7 vs. 2.4; p < 0.001; d = 0.94). A total of 28.6% of TGD vs. 5.7% cisgender patients reported four or more ACEs (p < 0.001). The most common forms of ACEs were parental abuse (54.3%) and peer abuse (54.3%). No significantly increased prevalence of sexual abuse was found (p > 0.05). TGD patients also reported a higher prevalence of depression (48.4% vs. 5.7%, p < 0.001), posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms (59.4% vs. 13.8%, p < 0.001), and anxiety (58.1% vs. 28.6%, p = 0.016). Health care providers should be aware of and assess ACEs, especially in vulnerable groups such as TGD people, and create a safe place through open-minded, affirming care.

Intersectionality and Adverse Childhood Experiences: Comparing Subgroups of Sex, Race/Ethnicity, and Sexual Orientation

INTRODUCTION

This study investigated the intersectionality of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) among subgroups of sex, race/ethnicity, and sexual orientation.

METHODS

Using data from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance Survey across 34 states (N=116,712) from 2009 to 2018, authors stratified subgroups of sex (male/female), race/ethnicity (White/Hispanic/Black/multiracial/other), and sexual orientation (heterosexual/bisexual/gay) to investigate the number of ACEs across groups. Analyses were conducted in 2022.

RESULTS

Stratification resulted in 30 distinct subgroups (e.g., bisexual Black females, straight multiracial males) with significant post hoc differences per group. Generally, those identifying as sexual minority individuals had the highest number of ACEs (the top 14 of 30 subgroups), whereas seven of the top ten subgroups were female. Surprisingly, no clear patterns emerged by race/ethnicity, although the two largest groups (straight White females and straight White males) were 27th and 28th of 30, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Although studies have examined ACEs by individual demographic variables, less is known about the extent to which ACEs are present in stratified subgroups. Sexual minority subgroups (particularly female bisexual subgroups) trend toward a higher number of ACEs, whereas heterosexual subgroups (regardless of sex) comprised the lowest 6 groups with respect to ACEs. Implications include further examination of bisexual and female subgroups (including specific ACE domain investigations) to identify the vulnerable population.

Adverse childhood experiences and adult outcomes using a causal framework perspective: Challenges and opportunities

BACKGROUND

Research on the effect of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) on adult outcomes has typically relied on retrospective assessment of ACEs and cumulative scores. However, this approach raises methodological challenges that can limit the validity of findings.

OBJECTIVE

The aims of this paper are 1) to present the value of directed acyclic graphs (DAGs) to identify and mitigate potential problems related to confounding and selection bias, and 2) to question the meaning of a cumulative ACE score.

RESULTS

Adjusting for variables that post-date childhood could block mediated pathways that are part of the total causal effect while conditioning on adult variables, which often serve as proxies for childhood variables, can create collider stratification bias. Because exposure to ACEs can affect the likelihood of reaching adulthood or study entry, selection bias could be introduced via restricting selection on a variable affected by ACEs in the presence of unmeasured confounding. In addition to challenges regarding causal structure, using a cumulative score of ACEs assumes that each type of adversity will have the same effect on a given outcome, which is unlikely considering differing risk across adverse experiences.

CONCLUSIONS

DAGs provide a transparent approach of the researchers' assumed causal relationships and can be used to overcome issues related to confounding and selection bias. Researchers should be explicit about their operationalization of ACEs and how it is to be interpreted in the context of the research question they are trying to answer.

Sexual and gender minority adverse childhood experiences (SGM-ACEs), perceived social support, and adult mental health

BACKGROUND

Building on decades of research into the long-term developmental impacts of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), researchers have called for expanding the ACEs framework to include experiences specific to minoritized identities. Recent empirical research has led to the development of a measure of sexual and gender minority adverse childhood experiences (SGM-ACEs). Within the SGM-specific ACEs framework, research on the long-term impact to adult mental health and the role of perceived social support are not well studied.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this paper was two-fold. First, examine whether SGM-ACEs adversely impact mental health in SGM adults. Second, examine the role of perceived social support in the association between SGM-ACEs and adult mental health.

PARTICIPANTS AND SETTING

Data were collected using a multifaceted sampling strategy. In total, 1819 self-identified SGM Texans completed an online survey inquiring about ACEs, SGM-ACEs, mental health, and demographic characteristics.

RESULTS

We estimated two competing structural equation models (SEM) examining the associations between SGM-ACEs and anxiety and depressive symptoms, and whether perceived social support may moderate or mediate his association. While both models demonstrated that SGM-ACEs were significantly associated with higher anxiety and depressive symptoms. However, we found more support for the mediation model such that SGM-ACEs had direct effects on anxiety and depressive symptoms, and an indirect effect on anxiety symptoms through family support.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings confirmed that exposure to SGM-ACE is associated with poorer adult mental health. Additionally, SGM-ACEs exposure undermines SGM individuals' perceptions of family support, which increases symptoms of anxiety.

The role of adverse childhood experiences in suicide among sexual minority undergraduate students

This study explores the rates and odds of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and their relationship to suicide attempts in a sample of undergraduate students (n = 924, 71.6% women), comparing lesbian, gay and bisexual (LGB) youth to their heterosexual counterparts. Using propensity score matching, we matched 231 sexual minority and 603 heterosexual participants at a ratio of 1:3, based on gender, age, socioeconomic status, and religious beliefs. Sexual minority participants reported a significantly higher ACE score (M = 2.70 vs. 1.85; t = 4.93; p <.001; d = .391) and higher rates of all but one type of ACEs than their heterosexual counterparts. They also reported a higher prevalence and risk of suicide attempts (33.3% vs. 11.8% respectively, odds ratio = 3.73; p < .001). In logistic regression analysis, sexual minority status, emotional abuse and neglect, bias attack, having a household member with mental health problems, bullying and cyberbullying were significantly associated with suicide attempts.

The impacts of adverse childhood experiences on socioeconomic disadvantage by sexual and gender identity in the U.S

BACKGROUND

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) predict low education and low income, but this has scarcely been examined by sexual orientation and gender identity.

OBJECTIVE

We investigated prevalence and associations between ACEs, low income, and low education in sexual and gender diverse (SGD) and cisgender heterosexual (CGH) sub-groups.

PARTICIPANTS AND SETTING

Data came from 14 states in the 2019 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System survey (n = 79,303).

METHODS

Chi-square, logistic regression, and moderation analyses were implemented to examine the prevalence and associations between ACEs, low income, and low education. Sample stratification was used to examine differences between SGD and CGH sub-groups.

RESULTS

SGD participants reported higher prevalence of ACEs, low income, and low education compared to CGH participants (p < 0.0001) with the highest proportions in transgender and queer/something else groups. ACEs were associated with low income (AOR 1.084, CI 1.067-1.102) and low education (AOR 1.056, CI 1.041-1.071) in the entire sample. Transgender and queer/something else groups had higher odds of low income (AOR 3.345, CI 1.975-5.665; AOR 1.702, CI 1.096-2.643) and low education (AOR 1.702, CI 1.096-2.643; AOR 3.552, CI 2.842-4.440) and gay/lesbian identity had reduced odds of low education (AOR 0.586, CI 0.457-0.751) compared to CGH males. The strength of associations between ACEs and low income and low education were weaker among SGD compared to CGH sub-groups.

CONCLUSION

These findings highlight the importance of including categories of sexual identity cross-classified by gender identity in population-based analyses in order to facilitate a comprehensive characterization of the life course outcomes of SGD populations.

Accompanying your children: Living without parents at different stages of pre-adulthood and individual physical and mental health in adulthood

Objectives

This study examined how living without parents at different stages of childhood and adolescence affects physical and mental health in adulthood.

Methods

The data came from 3,464 survey respondents aged 18–36 in the 2018 China Labor-Force Dynamics Survey. Physical health was self-rated. Mental health was measured by the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression scale. The ordered probit and ordinary least-squares regression analyses were employed to determine the associations between growing up without parents at different stages in pre-adulthood and individual physical and mental health in adulthood.

Results

Individuals who did not live with their parents during their minor years were more likely to report worse physical and mental health in adulthood, compared to those who lived with their parents. This difference was heterogeneous among different age stages and genders.

Conclusions

Absence of parents in the household has long-term impacts on the physical and mental health of children in adulthood, especially for females. The government should make feasible institutional arrangements to avoid the separation of minor children from their parents.

Substance Use Outcomes For Sexual and Gender Minority Adults With a History of Adverse Childhood Experiences: A Scoping Review

Purpose

The impacts of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) on behavioral, mental, and physical health have been extensively investigated. As such, it is paramount to synthesize their quantified effects, especially within vulnerable populations. The goal of this scoping review was to collect, summarize, and synthesize existing research on ACEs and substance use (SU) in adult sexual and gender minority (SGM) populations.

Methods

WebofScience, APA PsychInfo, LGBTQ+ Life (EBSCO), Google Scholar, and PubMed electronic databases were searched. We included reports published between 2014 and 2022 that assessed SU outcomes, ACEs in adult (18+) SGM populations, in the United States (US). We excluded those in which SU was not an outcome, measured community-based abuse or neglect, or investigated adulthood trauma. Data were extracted using the Matrix Method and categorized across three SU outcomes.

Results

Twenty reports were included in the review. Nineteen employed a cross-sectional design and 80% focused on a single SGM group (transgender women, bisexual Latino men, etc.). Nine of 11 manuscripts found SU frequency and quantity were higher among ACE exposed participants. Three of four studies found ACE exposure to correlate with substance use problems and substance misuse. Four of five studies found ACE exposure to be correlated with substance use disorders.

Conclusions

Longitudinal research is needed to comprehend the impact of ACE on SU within the diverse subgroups of SGM adults. Investigators should prioritize the use of standard operationalizations of ACE and SU to improve comparability across studies and include diverse samples from the SGM community.

Implementing trauma-informed care across the lifespan to acknowledge childhood adverse event prevalence: best clinical practices

ABSTRACT

Adverse childhood experiences and toxic stress in childhood have been correlated with negative physical and mental health outcomes, poor social outcomes, and early mortality. Understanding the prevalence of trauma and its effects on lifelong health outcomes has been the focus of an evolving concept of care delivery known as trauma-informed care (TIC). The aim of this article is to provide a general overview of TIC and to review current best-practice recommendations and models of care, thereby providing NPs with practical ways to empower a trauma-informed approach to care in their daily practice setting.

Comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis on physical health conditions in lesbian- and bisexual-identified women compared with heterosexual-identified women

BACKGROUND

Sexual minority individuals experience discrimination, leading to mental health disparities. Physical health disparities have not been examined to the same extent in systematic reviews so far.

OBJECTIVES

To provide a systematic review and, where possible, meta-analyses on the prevalence of physical health conditions in sexual minority women (i.e. lesbian- and bisexual-identified women) compared to heterosexual-identified women.

DESIGN

The study design is a systematic review with meta-analyses.

DATA SOURCES AND METHODS

A systematic literature search in MEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL, CINAHL, and Web of Science databases was conducted on epidemiologic studies on physical health conditions, classified in the Global Burden of Disease project, published between 2000 and 2021. Meta-analyses pooling odds ratios were calculated.

RESULTS

In total, 23,649 abstracts were screened and 44 studies were included in the systematic review. Meta-analyses were run for arthritis, asthma, back pain, cancer, chronic kidney diseases, diabetes, headache disorders, heart attacks, hepatitis, hypertension, and stroke. Most significant differences in prevalence by sexual identity were found for chronic respiratory conditions, especially asthma. Overall, sexual minority women were significantly 1.5-2 times more likely to have asthma than heterosexual women. Furthermore, evidence of higher prevalence in sexual minority compared to heterosexual women was found for back pain, headaches/migraines, hepatitis B/C, periodontitis, urinary tract infections, and acne. In contrast, bisexual women had lower cancer rates. Overall, sexual minority women had lower odds of heart attacks, diabetes, and hypertension than heterosexual women (in terms of diabetes and hypertension possibly due to non-consideration of pregnancy-related conditions).

CONCLUSION

We found evidence for physical health disparities by sexual identity. Since some of these findings rely on few comparisons only, this review emphasizes the need for routinely including sexual identity assessment in health research and clinical practice. Providing a more detailed picture of the prevalence of physical health conditions in sexual minority women may ultimately contribute to reducing health disparities.

Perceived social support moderates the association between household dysfunction adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and self-reported drug use among men who have sex with men in Los Angeles, California

BACKGROUND

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) have been shown to be associated with drug use in adulthood. The single ACE of household substance use history (part of the household dysfunction category) has frequently been associated with drug use. Resilience factors such as perceived social support appear to buffer the association between ACEs and drug use and may be particularly relevant for urban men who have sex with men (MSM). The current study of low-income mostly Black and Latino MSM aims to investigate whether the cumulative ACE score predicts self-reported drug use in a dose-response manner and whether this potential association differs by perceived social support.

METHODS

Data was utilized from a longitudinal study of MSM (mean age=34; SD=7.1) with varied substance use behaviors (n = 321) collected between August 2014 and April 2022. Cumulative, household dysfunction ACEs, and the single ACE of household substance use history were investigated as predictors of self-reported drug use (methamphetamine, ecstasy, cocaine/crack, heroin/fentanyl, party drugs [GHB, special K, mushrooms, LSD/acid], other drugs [bath salts, PCP]) during the past six months in mixed-effects logistic regression models, with moderation analyses by perceived social support (measured by the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support) across all models using stratified analysis and one model of multiplicative interaction.

RESULTS

There was no suggestion of a dose-response relationship between the number of ACEs and the predicted probability of self-reported drug use. Cumulative ACEs did not predict the outcome overall (aOR=1.99; 95% CI: 0.86-4.59), however, a positive association was estimated for individuals reporting lower levels of perceived social support (aOR=2.80; 95% CI: 0.97-8.06). The dimension of household dysfunction had a positive association with drug use (aOR=1.32; 95% CI: 1.00-1.74) whereas the dimension of childhood maltreatment did not. The association between household dysfunction and drug use was moderated by the perception of social support, with those reporting lower levels having greater odds of reporting drug use (aOR=2.94; 95% CI: 1.04-8.31). The association between household substance use history and self-reported drug use was similarly moderated by perceived social support in a multiplicative interaction model (p = .02).

CONCLUSION

Perceived social support emerged as a potential buffering factor for any reported drug use, particularly for the single ACE of household substance use history. Given that the association between ACEs and drug use was weak among those with higher levels of perceived social support, promotion of social ties in the community may help reduce the burden of substance use among MSM exposed to ACEs.

Childhood abuse, left-behind status and mental health among lesbian, gay, and bisexual young adults in China

BACKGROUND

Lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) young adults are at increased risk of mental distress in China. To better carry out psychological intervention, it is essential to understand unique patterns of mental distress and their association with childhood abuse/neglect, including experiencing being left behind by migrating parents.

OBJECTIVE

In a sample of Chinese LGB young adults, we examined: (1) associations between childhood abuse and left-behind status and mental distress; (2) latent profiles of mental distress; and (3) associations between childhood abuse and left-behind status and latent profiles of mental distress.

PARTICIPANTS AND SETTING

A sample of 630 Chinese LGB young adults aged 18-30 years was recruited to complete an online survey.

METHODS

Participants provided demographic information and completed validated measures of childhood abuse experience and mental distress. Latent profile analysis (LPA) was used to identify patterns of mental distress, and logistic regression analysis was used to examine the relationships among these variables.

RESULTS

Results showed that all forms of childhood abuse and left-behind status were associated with all dimensions of adulthood mental distress. The LPA suggested a 3-group solution as optimal (no mental distress, mild mental distress, and moderate/severe mental distress). Participants who experienced any forms of childhood abuse were more likely to be members of both the mild mental distress and moderate/severe mental distress groups (all p's < 0.001). Also, participants who had left-behind status were more likely to be in the moderate/severe mental distress group (AOR = 1.61, p < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings highlight the need for interventions aimed at addressing childhood abuse/neglect among Chinese LGB young adults, as these experiences increase the risk for mental health issues in adulthood.

Systems of Care Implications in Hawai'i: Sexual and Gender Minorities

Sexual and gender minorities (SGM) are diverse groups of people who do not identify as heterosexual or cisgender. SGM communities include Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) individuals as well as people of other sexual orientations and gender identities. SGM communities are disproportionately affected by substance use disorders, with differential use of specific substances among persons based on sexual or gender identity. As understood through the minority stress model, substance use and misuse among SGM people are tied to risk and resiliency factors at all levels of the social ecological paradigm. Despite the disproportionate burden of substance use disorders on SGM people in Hawai'i, very few resources or programs exist to ameliorate the impact of substance use on this community. Although some models of care could be useful for SGM people, community-specific interventions are scarce, especially in Hawai'i. To successfully meet the needs of SGM people in Hawai'i, multi-level transformation of the substance use prevention and treatment landscape must address: culturally appropriate service delivery; workforce recruitment and development; nimble and adequate financing; consistent data collection and reporting; and systems-level policy updates.

An Exploration of Factors that Mediate the Relationship Between Adverse Childhood Experiences and Sexual Assault Victimization Among LGBTQ+ College Students

Despite alarming rates of sexual assault on college campuses, little research has examined risk factors for sexual victimization among LGBTQ+ college students. This exploratory study aims to examine adolescent sexual assault, internalized homonegativity, and problematic alcohol use as mediators linking several types of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs; i.e., childhood sexual abuse, parental abuse, and household disorder) to collegiate sexual assault. Utilizing data from 241 LGBTQ+ college students, path analysis findings demonstrated that these proposed mediators increased risk for sexual assault and that various types of ACEs exerted differential impacts on sexual re-victimization, internalized homonegativity, and problematic alcohol use. Practice-based implications are offered, including the need for affirming programming that includes problem drinking prevention components and considers the role of ACEs and internalized homonegativity in increasing risk for sexual assault during college as well as the need for LGBTQ+ resource centers on campus.

The Relationship Between Adverse Childhood Experiences and Utilization of Different HIV Testing Strategies Among Young Men Who Have Sex with Men in Texas

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are a well-documented HIV-risk factor, but less is known about the relationship between ACEs and different HIV testing strategies. This study used data from an LGBTQ + community health assessment, that was part of a multi-staged community-based participatory research project in San Antonio, Texas. Overall, 464 young men who have sex with men (YMSM; < 36-years-old) completed an online, cross-sectional survey that included questions about ACEs and HIV testing behavior. An association between increased ACEs exposure and the odds of clinic-based testing and HIVST HIV significantly decreased relative to never testing for HIV. Additionally, greater ACEs exposure was significantly associated with increased odds of reporting community-based testing (AOR = 1.09, 95% CI = 1.00, 1.20) and significantly reduced odds of HIV self-testing (AOR = 0.72, 95% CI = 0.63, 0.82) compared to clinic-based testing. Cumulative ACEs exposure is important in understanding HIV testing behaviors in YMSM and should be considered when developing HIV testing programs.

Adverse childhood experiences and mental health problems in a nationally representative study of heterosexual, homosexual and bisexual Danes

Non-heterosexual persons more often report adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) than heterosexuals, and they generally bear a greater burden of mental health challenges. However, population-based data on this topic are scarce. In a nationally representative study within the Project SEXUS, one of the world's largest cohort studies on sexual health, we used data from 57,479 individuals in Denmark to explore the interplay between ACEs and mental health problems among self-identified heterosexual, homosexual and bisexual persons, and among self-identified heterosexuals with or without same-sex sexual experience. Compared to heterosexuals, non-heterosexual persons were more likely to report most of the studied ACEs, with odds ratios (ORs) for the ACE category "abuse" ranging from 1.38 to 1.75 for homosexual women, from 1.76 to 2.65 for homosexual men, from 2.52 to 3.64 for bisexual women, and from 1.58 to 6.07 for bisexual men. Furthermore, non-heterosexual persons had consistently and statistically significantly higher odds for mental health problems (ORs: 1.50 to 4.63). Combinations of ACEs with a non-heterosexual identity resulted in markedly elevated odds for mental health problems, particularly among bisexual individuals. This included high odds for suicidal thoughts/attempts among bisexual persons with a history of "neglect" (women: OR=12.82; men: OR=35.24) and "abuse" (women: OR=11.81; men: OR=11.65). Among self-identified heterosexuals, combinations of ACEs with same-sex sexual experience were associated with consistently elevated odds for mental health problems (ORs: 2.22 to 12.04). The greater burden of ACEs among self-identified homosexuals and, most notably, bisexuals may account for part of their excess risk of mental health problems. These findings emphasize the public health importance of preventive measures to minimize the burden of ACEs and avert their harmful long-term effects. Moreover, they highlight the need to safeguard the welfare of children and adolescents with non-conforming expressions of sexuality.

Childhood Experiences and Mental Health of Sexual Minority Adults: Examining Three Models

Three models of recalled childhood gender nonconformity (GNC) and maltreatment are proposed to explain disparities in current psychological distress and lifetime suicidality among sexual minority individuals, using a United States probability sample of cisgender lesbian/gay (n = 701), bisexual (n = 606), and other (e.g., queer, n = 182) adults. Indirect effects indicated that lesbian/gay individuals were more likely than bisexual individuals to experience maltreatment and suicidal ideation as childhood GNC increased. Other indirect effects found that bisexual individuals reported more psychological distress and greater likelihood of lifetime suicidal ideation and attempts than lesbian/gay individuals as maltreatment increased. The direct effects of sexual orientation were stronger than the indirect effects via maltreatment or GNC, with bisexual individuals reporting more maltreatment, distress, and suicidality than lesbian/gay individuals. Significant findings for individuals with other identities were similar to those of bisexual individuals. Adjusted findings were comparable for women and men. The findings indicated that sexual minority individuals reported experiences consistent with sexual minority stress during early developmental periods, before being aware of their sexual orientation. It is necessary to understand the early lived experiences of sexual minority individuals, differences between lesbian/gay and bisexual individuals in those experiences, and their implications for adaptation.

Adverse Childhood Experiences and Their Relationship with Poor Sexual Health Outcomes: Results from Four Cross-Sectional Surveys

Improving understanding of risk factors for risky sexual behaviour is fundamental to achieve better population sexual health. Exposure to adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) can increase the risk of poor sexual health outcomes, but most research is US-based. This study explored associations between ACEs and poor sexual health outcomes in the UK. Data from four cross-sectional ACE surveys with adult general populations in different regions of the UK from 2013−2015 (n = 12,788) were analysed. Data included participants’ demographics, ACE exposure, and four sexual health outcomes: having early sex (<16 years), having an accidental teenage pregnancy, becoming a teenage parent, or having a lifetime diagnosis of a sexually transmitted infection. ACE count was a consistent and significant predictor of all four sexual health outcomes for both males and females, with odds of these outcomes between three and seven times higher for those with 4+ ACEs compared to those with no ACEs. Increased risks of some, but not all, sexual health outcomes were also found with higher residential deprivation, younger age, being of white ethnicity, and being born to a teenage mother. Findings highlight the need for effective interventions to prevent and ameliorate the lifelong effects of ACEs. Trauma-informed relationships and sex education, sexual health services, and antenatal/postnatal services, particularly for teenagers and young parents, could provide opportunities to prevent ACEs and support those affected. Ensuring that those living in deprived areas have access to services and that barriers to uptake are addressed is also key.

Experiences of Violence and Mental Health Outcomes among Colombian Men who have Sex with Men (MSM) and Transgender Women

Colombia endured 70 years of internal conflict, but despite a peace agreement, violence continues to be significant in the post-conflict era. Violence degrades the health and well-being of affected populations and it engenders psychological distress. Little is known about the impact of violence on the mental health of sexual and gender minority populations in Colombia. This study aimed to examine the frequency and sources of violence among cisgender men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women and their association with depressive symptoms and substance use. We administered a survey to 942 MSM and 58 transgender women recruited using respondent-driven sampling. We estimated the relationship between mental health indicators and experiences of violence using stepwise logistic and linear regressions, controlling for income, education, age, race, and mistreatment for being effeminate when younger. Respondent-driven sampling adjusted prevalence of any type of violence was 60.9% for the total sample, 59.8% for MSM, and 75.1% for transgender women. Experiences of violence were significantly related to depressive symptoms, binge drinking and drug use for the MSM sample. Violence perpetrated by family members or acquaintances was associated with greater depressive symptoms, and violence perpetrated by partners and strangers was associated with increased binge drinking and drug use. These results provide significant evidence of the negative association of experiences of violence and the mental health of sexual and gender minority people, a vulnerable population in Colombia. This study addresses issues of diversity regarding sexual orientation and gender identity in a Latin American middle-income country.

Rethinking minority stress: A social safety perspective on the health effects of stigma in sexually-diverse and gender-diverse populations

For over two decades, the minority stress model has guided research on the health of sexually-diverse individuals (those who are not exclusively heterosexual) and gender-diverse individuals (those whose gender identity/expression differs from their birth-assigned sex/gender). According to this model, the cumulative stress caused by stigma and social marginalization fosters stress-related health problems. Yet studies linking minority stress to physical health outcomes have yielded mixed results, suggesting that something is missing from our understanding of stigma and health. Social safety may be the missing piece. Social safety refers to reliable social connection, inclusion, and protection, which are core human needs that are imperiled by stigma. The absence of social safety is just as health-consequential for stigmatized individuals as the presence of minority stress, because the chronic threat-vigilance fostered by insufficient safety has negative long-term effects on cognitive, emotional, and immunological functioning, even when exposure to minority stress is low. We argue that insufficient social safety is a primary cause of stigma-related health disparities and a key target for intervention.

Gender- and Sexual Orientation- Based Inequities: Promoting Inclusion, Visibility, and Data Accuracy in Oncology

Sexual and gender minority (SGM) people, including agender, asexual, bisexual, gay, gender diverse, genderqueer, genderfluid, intersex, lesbian, nonbinary, pansexual, queer, and transgender people, comprise approximately 10% or more of the U.S. population. Thus, most oncologists see SGM patients whether they know it or not. SGM people experience stigma and structural discrimination that lead to cancer disparities. Because of the lack of systematic and comprehensive data collection, data regarding SGM cancer incidence, outcomes, and treatment responses are limited. Collection of data regarding sexual orientation, gender identity, transgender identity and/or experience, anatomy, and serum hormone concentrations in oncology settings would drastically increase collective knowledge about the impact of stigma and biologic markers on cancer outcomes. Increasing the safety of oncology settings for SGM people will require individual, institutional, and systems changes that will likely improve oncologic care for all patients.

Adverse Childhood Experiences, Suicidal/Self-Harming Thoughts, and Suicide Attempts Among LGB and Heterosexual Utahns

Current research suggests that sexual minorities living in Utah may be at higher risk for experiencing suicidal/self-harming thoughts and suicide attempts than heterosexuals in Utah. However, to date no research has been conducted examining potential reasons sexual minorities living in Utah may be at higher risk. Using two representative samples of Utahns, we examine (a) disparities in adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) between sexual minorities and heterosexual Utahn, (b) how ACEs and sexual orientation may predict recent suicidal/self-harming thoughts and lifetime prevalence of suicide attempts, and (c) how sexual orientation and ACEs might interact to predict suicidal outcomes. Results with each sample showed that sexual minority Utahns reported higher levels of ACEs and suicidal/self-harming thoughts than heterosexual Utahns. Both sexual orientation and ACEs uniquely predicted suicidality when both were entered into regression models, but no interaction effects were found between these predictors.

Marital Stress and Emotion Work in Same-Sex and Different-Sex Marriages: The Moderating Role of Childhood Adversity

Adverse experiences in childhood may set the stage for future response to stress, emotion regulation, and interaction with partners in intimate relationships. Prior research suggests the influence of childhood adversity on stress response is gendered, yet we do not know much about how individuals with a history of significant childhood adversity respond to marital stress outside of a different-sex marriage context. This study examines the moderating role of childhood adversity on the association of daily marital stress with emotion work provision (intentional activities devoted to enhancing others' emotional well-being) and considers whether the association varies for men and women in same- and different-sex marriages. Specifically, I use ten days of dyadic diary data collected from 378 midlife same- and different-sex married couples (n=756 individuals) and conduct multilevel regression models. The results show marital stress is positively associated with emotion work provision, and that the association is stronger for respondents who report more adverse childhood experiences. For respondents with low childhood adversity, the association of marital stress with emotion work is greater for same-sex couples compared to different-sex couples; for those with high childhood adversity, the association is equally strong. Findings from this study suggest that both men and women in same- and different-sex relationships do more emotion work in response to increased daily marital stress. Furthermore, early experiences of adversity are linked to stress responses in adulthood, with differing implications for men and women in different-sex and same-sex unions.

Development and psychometric properties of the sexual and gender minority adverse childhood experiences (SGM-ACEs): Effect on sexual and gender minority adult mental health

BACKGROUND

Research has consistently shown a relationship between adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and poor mental health outcomes, and recent research shows that sexual and gender minority (SGM) individuals are at increased risk for ACEs. Moreover, SGM individuals may experience unique ACEs. Increased risk for exposure to traditional and SGM-specific ACEs are related to heterosexism.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this paper is two-fold. First, establish the need for an SGM specific ACEs framework that accounts for exposure to heterosexism. Second, assess the psychometric properties of the SGM-ACEs scale.

PARTICIPANTS AND SETTING

Data were collected using a multifaceted sampling strategy. In total, 1725 self-identified SGM Texans completed an online survey about ACEs, SGM-ACEs, mental health diagnoses, and demographic characteristics.

RESULTS

The most commonly reported SGM-ACEs were seeing or hearing of other SGM being physical harmed (71.2%), being bullied in school for being SGM (67.9%), and hearing religious leaders say homophobic, biphobic, or transphobic things (60.8%). The EFA showed that 7-items loaded onto a single factor and the CFA indicated a good model fit, with items showing a significant factor loading higher than 0.60. SGM-ACE showed adequate to good psychometric properties and predicted depression (AOR = 1.49, CI = 1.20, 1.86), anxiety (AOR = 1.61, CI = 1.25, 2.00), and PTSD (AOR = 1.97, CI = 1.47, 2.66), when controlling for ACEs and demographic factors.

CONCLUSIONS

The 7-item SGM-ACEs measure is a psychometrically sound and unidimensional measure that can be quickly used to assess common adverse childhood experiences related to heterosexism.

Mental health-related quality of life by sex and sexual identity among U.S. adults with alcohol and tobacco use disorder

INTRODUCTION

Alcohol use disorder (AUD) and tobacco use disorder (TUD) are more severe among some sexual minority subgroups. It is less understood whether mental health indicators also differ by sexual identity among those with more severe forms of AUD and TUD. We examined differences in mental health-related QoL by sex-specific sexual identity subgroup among those meeting criteria for moderate-to-severe AUD or moderate-to-severe TUD.

METHODS

We analyzed data from the National Epidemiologic Study of Alcohol and Related Conditions-III (2012-2013; n = 36,309). Our analyses focused on those meeting criteria for past-year moderate-to-severe AUD (n = 2341) and past-year moderate-to-severe TUD (n = 3675). Using multivariable linear regression, we examined associations of sex-specific sexual identity subgroups with mental health-related QoL, while controlling for (a) sociodemographic characteristics, (b) disorder severity, and (c) risk and protective factors (adverse childhood experiences, parental history of substance misuse, stressful life events, and social support).

RESULTS

Among those with past-year moderate-to-severe AUD, gay men and heterosexual, bisexual, and gay/lesbian women had significantly lower mental health-related QoL compared to heterosexual men in fully adjusted models. Among those with past-year moderate-to-severe TUD, gay men and heterosexual and gay/lesbian women had significantly lower mental health-related QoL compared to heterosexual women. Bisexual and heterosexual women were not significantly different in fully adjusted models.

DISCUSSION

Clinicians should consider the variability in mental health-related QoL among those with moderate-to-severe AUD and TUD particularly for women and sexual minorities. Consideration of current and past stressors and the degree of social support may be beneficial when conducting assessments and forming treatment plans.

Sexual Minority Stress, Adverse Childhood Experiences, and Obesity Among Gay Men in Taiwan: Findings from a Panel Study

Purpose: Obesity is linked to personal behaviors and external stressors. Despite emerging evidence that sexual minority stress (SMS) and adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are associated with the risk of obesity, little is known about their independent and interactive effects on sexual minority men. This study investigated these relationships using panel data. Methods: Self-identified gay and bisexual adult men in Taiwan were recruited through Facebook advertisements to complete an online questionnaire. This study reports only on data from the gay subsample (n = 731, mean age = 28.05 years, standard deviation = 5.75 years) as the bisexual subsample (n = 132) was insufficient for comparative statistical analysis. Over two time points, respondents reported their body weight and height, experiences with SMS, and ACEs on an online survey platform. Data analysis was conducted using multiple logistic regression to determine the individual and interactive effects of the ACE score, ACE components, and SMS on the odds for obesity. Results: Almost 16% of the respondents met the criterion for obesity (body-mass index ≥27). In the adjusted models, neither SMS nor ACEs had significant associations with the likelihood of obesity. Only the interaction term of SMS and childhood sexual abuse was significant, indicating that victims of sexual abuse have an increased likelihood of obesity that SMS may intensify. Conclusions: This study shows that gay men who experience childhood sexual abuse and SMS accumulatively faced an increased risk of obesity. Healthy weight promotion for these men should address these stressors.