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Limbana T, Khan F, Eskander N, Emamy M, Jahan N. The Association of Bullying and Suicidality: Does it Affect the Pediatric Population? Cureus 2020; 12:e9691. [PMID: 32923283 PMCID: PMC7486111 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.9691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the last few years, bullying has been identified as one of the significant issues in the pediatric population. Reports also found that bullied youth have a higher risk of developing suicidality. Although preventable, suicide remains the leading cause of death in young people. This literature review aims to establish the association of bullying and the suicidality of the pediatric group (0-18 years of age). A PubMed search was conducted to find studies associating bullying and suicidality in the pediatric population. MeSH keyword strategy, along with subheadings, was used to retrieve appropriate literature. A total of 42 articles were included after the careful examination and application of exclusion and inclusion criteria. This study showed a strong association between bullying and suicidality, albeit the presence of some contradictory ideas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Therese Limbana
- Psychiatry, California Institute of Behavioural Neurosciences and Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | - Farah Khan
- Psychiatry, California Institute of Behavioural Neurosciences and Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | - Noha Eskander
- Psychiatry, California Institute of Behavioural Neurosciences and Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | - Mina Emamy
- Research, California Institute of Behavioural Neurosciences and Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | - Nusrat Jahan
- Internal Medicine, California Institute of Behavioural Neurosciences and Psychology, Fairfield, USA
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52
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Caputi TL, Shover CL, Watson RJ. Physical and Sexual Violence Among Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Questioning Adolescents. JAMA Pediatr 2020; 174:791-793. [PMID: 32150233 PMCID: PMC7063536 DOI: 10.1001/jamapediatrics.2019.6291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
This cross-sectional study uses data from the National Youth Risk Behavior Surveys to quantify the risks of physical and sexual violence faced by sexual minority adolescents in the United States from 2014 to 2017.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theodore L. Caputi
- Health Equity Research Lab, Harvard Medical School / Cambridge Health Alliance, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Chelsea L. Shover
- Department of Psychiatry, Stanford University, Palo Alto, California
| | - Ryan J. Watson
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs
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Green AE, Price-Feeney M, Dorison SH, Pick CJ. Self-Reported Conversion Efforts and Suicidality Among US LGBTQ Youths and Young Adults, 2018. Am J Public Health 2020; 110:1221-1227. [PMID: 32552019 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.2020.305701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Objectives. To explore associations between undergoing sexual orientation or gender identity conversion efforts (SOGICE) and suicidality among young LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer or questioning) individuals.Methods. Data were derived from a 2018 online cross-sectional study of young LGBTQ individuals (13-24 years of age) residing in the United States. Multivariate logistic regression was used to determine the relative odds of suicidality among young LGBTQ individuals who experienced SOGICE (in comparison with those who did not) after adjustment for age, race/ethnicity, geography, parents' use of religion to say negative things about being LGBTQ, sexual orientation, gender identity, discrimination because of sexual orientation or gender identity, and physical threats or harm because of sexual orientation or gender identity.Results. Relative to young people who had not experienced SOGICE, those who reported undergoing SOGICE were more than twice as likely to report having attempted suicide and having multiple suicide attempts.Conclusions. The elevated odds of suicidality observed among young LGBTQ individuals exposed to SOGICE underscore the detrimental effects of this unethical practice in a population that already experiences significantly greater risks for suicidality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy E Green
- The authors are with The Trevor Project, West Hollywood, CA
| | | | | | - Casey J Pick
- The authors are with The Trevor Project, West Hollywood, CA
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Fulginiti A, Goldbach JT, Mamey MR, Rusow J, Srivastava A, Rhoades H, Schrager SM, Bond DW, Marshal MP. Integrating Minority Stress Theory and the Interpersonal Theory of Suicide among Sexual Minority Youth Who Engage Crisis Services. Suicide Life Threat Behav 2020; 50:601-616. [PMID: 32048340 DOI: 10.1111/sltb.12623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2019] [Accepted: 10/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The present study sought to integrate minority stress theory (MST) and the interpersonal theory of suicide (ITS) to better understand high rates of suicide among sexual minority youth (SMY). To date, the ITS and MST have largely advanced independently from one another even though the research base for each theory contains gaps that the other theory may help fill. METHOD Using data from a national sample of 564 SMY (aged 12-24) recruited from an LGBTQ youth-focused suicide crisis prevention provider, we examined structural equation models to understand how perceived burdensomeness and thwarted belongingness mediate the relationship between minority stress and suicidal ideation and attempt. RESULTS Sexual minority stress was significantly associated with both perceived burdensomeness and thwarted belongingness in models predicting suicidal ideation and attempt. Moreover, minority stress had a direct effect on suicide attempt and an indirect effect on both suicidal ideation and suicide attempt through burdensomeness. CONCLUSIONS Given that minority stress is associated with greater thwarted belongingness, perceived burdensomeness, and suicide attempts, there should be greater demand for continuing education centered on sexual minority populations and population-specific services. Identifying burdensomeness as a minority stress-suicide mechanism highlights the potential gains of piloting recently developed burdensomeness interventions among SMY.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony Fulginiti
- Graduate School of Social Work, University of Denver, Denver, CO, USA
| | - Jeremy T Goldbach
- Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Mary Rose Mamey
- Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Joshua Rusow
- Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Ankur Srivastava
- Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Harmony Rhoades
- Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Sheree M Schrager
- Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.,California State University, Northridge, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - David W Bond
- Blue Shield of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
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Price-Feeney M, Green AE, Dorison S. Understanding the Mental Health of Transgender and Nonbinary Youth. J Adolesc Health 2020; 66:684-690. [PMID: 31992489 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2019.11.314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2019] [Revised: 11/21/2019] [Accepted: 11/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Currently, there is a lack of nationwide data examining the mental health of transgender and nonbinary youth. Furthermore, relatively little is known about how the mental health of transgender and nonbinary youth compares to that of their cisgender lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer, and questioning peers or differences within subgroups of transgender and nonbinary youth. The goal of the present study was to better understand the mental health of transgender and nonbinary youth. METHODS We analyzed responses from a national quantitative cross-sectional survey of more than 25,000 lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and questioning youth, aged between 13 and 24 years, in the U.S. RESULTS Transgender and nonbinary youth were at increased risk of experiencing depressed mood, seriously considering suicide, and attempting suicide compared with cisgender lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer, and questioning youth. Controlling for sexual orientation-based or gender identity-based experiences of perceived discrimination and physical threats or harm reduced the disparities but did not fully account for them. Within-group analyses highlighted particularly increased risk for negative mental health outcomes among transgender males and nonbinary youth assigned female at birth. CONCLUSIONS Findings point to the need to directly address the needs of transgender and nonbinary youth in prevention and intervention programs and to advance policies that reduce discrimination and victimization based on sexual orientation or gender identity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Amy E Green
- The Trevor Project, West Hollywood, California
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56
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Gamarel KE, Watson RJ, Mouzoon R, Wheldon CW, Fish JN, Fleischer NL. Family Rejection and Cigarette Smoking Among Sexual and Gender Minority Adolescents in the USA. Int J Behav Med 2020; 27:179-187. [PMID: 31925674 PMCID: PMC7124998 DOI: 10.1007/s12529-019-09846-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sexual and gender minority (SGM) adolescents are more likely than their heterosexual and cisgender peers to smoke cigarettes. Family rejection has been associated with adverse health outcomes; however, few studies have examined whether SGM-specific family rejection is associated with cigarette smoking among SGM adolescents. METHOD A non-probability sample of 11,005 SGM adolescents (M = 15.58, SD = 1.27) completed an online cross-sectional survey. Bivariate and multivariable analyses were conducted to examine associations between SGM-specific family rejection, sociodemographic variables, and smoking. RESULTS Approximately 7% of the sample currently smoked cigarettes. Pansexual, asexual, trans boys, and non-binary assigned female at birth adolescents had the highest SGM family rejection scores. In multivariable regression analyses, SGM-specific family rejection was independently associated with smoking after adjusting for covariates (AOR = 1.15, 95% CI 1.04, 1.28). Family support (AOR = 0.80, 95% CI 0.73, 0.88) and experiencing violence (AOR = 1.64, 95% CI 1.49, 1.82) were also associated with smoking in multivariable models. Adolescents who identified as bisexual versus gay/lesbian (AOR = 1.50, 95% CI 1.21, 1.85) and trans boys versus cisgender girls (AOR = 2.05, 95% CI 1.13, 3.71) had an increased odds of smoking. Those who disclosed their sexual orientation identity to most (AOR = 1.95, 95% CI 1.45, 2.63) and all (AOR = 1.60, 95% CI 1.21, 2.11) of their family/parents had increased odds of smoking. CONCLUSION Our findings underscore the importance of attending to the role of SGM-specific family rejection and distinctions with SGM adolescents in tobacco prevention and smoking cessation efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristi E Gamarel
- Department of Health Behavior & Health Education, University of Michigan School of Public Health, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
| | - Ryan J Watson
- Department of Human Development and Family Studies, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Raha Mouzoon
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Christopher W Wheldon
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Temple University College of Public Health, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Jessica N Fish
- Department of Family Science, University of Maryland School of Public Health, College Park, MD, USA
| | - Nancy L Fleischer
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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Peters JR, Mereish EH, Krek MA, Chuong A, Ranney ML, Solomon J, Spirito A, Yen S. Sexual orientation differences in non-suicidal self-injury, suicidality, and psychosocial factors among an inpatient psychiatric sample of adolescents. Psychiatry Res 2020; 284:112664. [PMID: 31732188 PMCID: PMC7014818 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2019.112664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2019] [Revised: 10/20/2019] [Accepted: 10/26/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Within broader community samples, sexual minority adolescents (SMA, e.g., lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer) are at greater risk than their heterosexual counterparts for nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) and suicidal thoughts and behaviors. The present study investigated whether sexual minority orientation continues to confer additional risk for these behaviors in an already higher-risk sample of youth. Frequency and function of NSSI, suicidal behavior, and psychosocial factors were assessed in a sample of 52 adolescents (aged 12-18 years) admitted to an inpatient psychiatric unit due to suicide risk; 27 of them identified as SMA, and 25 as heterosexual (HA). Greater proportions of SMA reported engaging in lifetime NSSI, compared to HA, with a greater variety and frequency of NSSI behaviors and greater endorsement of intrapersonal NSSI functions. SMA reported higher levels of suicide ideation than HA, but not suicidal behavior. Group differences in NSSI and SI persisted when controlling for the greater prevalence of abuse and levels of peer-victimization reported by SMA. In inpatient clinical settings, SMA may be more likely than heterosexual youth to engage in NSSI, including more severe forms, and to experience suicide ideation. Providing alternative coping mechanisms may serve as treatment goals for reducing NSSI in SMA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica R Peters
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, United States.
| | - Ethan H Mereish
- Department of Health Studies, American University, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Maya A Krek
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, United States
| | - Adam Chuong
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, United States
| | - Megan L Ranney
- Emergency Digital Health Innovation program, Department of Emergency Medicine, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, United States
| | - Joel Solomon
- Department of Psychiatry, McLean Hospital/Harvard Medical School, Belmont, MA, United States
| | - Anthony Spirito
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, United States
| | - Shirley Yen
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, United States; Department of Psychiatry, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center/Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
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58
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Diehl A, Pillon SC, Caetano R, Madruga CS, Wagstaff C, Laranjeira R. Violence and substance use in sexual minorities: Data from the Second Brazilian National Alcohol and Drugs Survey (II BNADS). Arch Psychiatr Nurs 2020; 34:41-48. [PMID: 32035588 DOI: 10.1016/j.apnu.2019.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2018] [Revised: 10/30/2019] [Accepted: 11/09/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe the prevalence of substance use and the associations between adverse early life experiences, sexual behaviour and violence in sexual minority (SM) individuals. METHODS The Brazilian National Alcohol and Drugs Survey is a probabilistic household survey performed in 2012, collecting data from 4067 Brazilians aged 14 years and older. RESULTS 3.4% of the sample declared themselves as sexual minorities, 53.8% female, 66.5% single, mean age of 29.5 years (standard deviation 16.0 years). A high prevalence of alcohol dependence (15.2%) and binge drinking (22.2%) was identified in the SM group. Respondents were more likely to use crack cocaine and hallucinogens, to have been involved in child prostitution, child sexual abuse and to report suicidal ideation in the previous year. Respondents were also more likely to engage in unprotected sex compared to non-sexual minorities. Nearly one-third referred to having suffered homophobic discrimination in their lives. Respondents also reported higher rates of domestic violence (18.9%) and urban violence (18%) among the SM. CONCLUSION The findings reinforce that violence directed at individuals in the Brazilian SM community begins early in life and persists into adulthood when compared to non-sexual minorities. This population is also more exposed to substance use disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Diehl
- Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP), Psychiatric Department, Brazil.
| | - Sandra Cristina Pillon
- University of São Paulo (USP), Psychiatric Nursing and Human Science Department, Faculty of Nursing at Ribeirão Preto, Brazil; PAHO/WHO Collaborating Centre for Nursing Research Development, Brazil
| | - Raul Caetano
- Prevention Research Centre, Pacific Institute for Research and Evaluation, Oakland, California, United States of America
| | | | - Christopher Wagstaff
- School of Nursing, Institute of Clinical Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, England, UK.
| | - Ronaldo Laranjeira
- Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP), Psychiatric Department, Brazil
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Li MJ, Takada S, Okafor CN, Gorbach PM, Shoptaw SJ, Cole SW. Experienced homophobia and gene expression alterations in Black and Latino men who have sex with men in Los Angeles County. Brain Behav Immun 2020; 83:120-125. [PMID: 31563693 PMCID: PMC6906252 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2019.09.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2019] [Revised: 09/20/2019] [Accepted: 09/25/2019] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Men who have sex with men (MSM) experience high rates of homophobic victimization, which is linked to myriad chronic physical and mental health disparities. Social adversity such as rejection, isolation, and racial discrimination can induce a conserved transcriptional response to adversity (CTRA) involving upregulation of proinflammatory genes and downregulation of type I interferon and antibody synthesis genes. This study specifically examines whether homophobic victimization is associated with expression of CTRA profiles in Black and Latino MSM living in Los Angeles. Analyses linked behavioral survey data with quantified RNA from leukocytes from blood samples of 70 participants over 12 months. CTRA gene expression was increased by 3.1-fold in MSM who experienced homophobic victimization while adjusting for major leukocyte subsets and sociodemographics. Accounting for all these factors, CTRA gene expression was significantly enhanced in MSM who identified as Black compared to Latino. Our findings identify experiences of homophobic victimization as drivers of inflammatory and type I interferon gene expression profiles, which can contribute to physical and mental health challenges in Black and Latino MSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J. Li
- Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles,Center for Behavioral and Addiction Medicine, Department of Family Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles,Department of Family Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles
| | - Sae Takada
- National Clinician Scholars Program UCLA, Division of General Internal Medicine and Health Services Research, Department of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA,Veterans Affairs, Health Services Research & Development, Center for the Study of Healthcare Innovation, Implementation, & Policy, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Chukwuemeka N. Okafor
- Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles,Center for Behavioral and Addiction Medicine, Department of Family Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles,Department of Family Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles
| | - Pamina M. Gorbach
- Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles,Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles
| | - Steven J. Shoptaw
- Center for Behavioral and Addiction Medicine, Department of Family Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles,Department of Family Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles,Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles
| | - Steven W. Cole
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles,Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles
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Mereish EH, Sheskier M, Hawthorne D, Goldbach JT. Sexual orientation disparities in mental health and substance use among Black American young people in the USA: effects of cyber and bias-based victimisation. CULTURE, HEALTH & SEXUALITY 2019; 21:985-998. [PMID: 30601086 PMCID: PMC6602804 DOI: 10.1080/13691058.2018.1532113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2018] [Accepted: 09/27/2018] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Few studies have explored sexual orientation disparities in mental health and substance use outcomes among racial minorities. This study examined sexual orientation disparities in depression, suicidality and substance use among Black American young people in the USA, and the mediating role of cyber and bias-based victimisation in accounting for these disparities. Secondary analyses were performed on data from a probability sample of young people (N = 1,129) collected in a school district in the south-eastern USA. Participants reported socio-demographics, depressive symptoms, suicidality, substance use and experiences of bias-based and cyber victimisation. With some exceptions, Black participants who were lesbian, gay, bisexual or mostly heterosexual reported higher rates of depression, suicidal ideation, suicide planning and substance use than Black heterosexual participants. Black lesbian, gay, bisexual and mostly heterosexual participants reported more cyber and bias-based victimisation than Black heterosexual participants. Sexual orientation disparities in mental health and, to some extent, substance use were partially explained by both forms of victimisation. Further research is needed to address the role of bias-based and cyber victimisation in disparities in mental health and substance use among Black sexual minority young people. The present study carries implications for prevention and treatment efforts for racially diverse sexual minorities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ethan H. Mereish
- Department of Health Studies, American University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Mikela Sheskier
- Department of Psychology, American University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - David Hawthorne
- Department of Health Studies, American University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Jeremy T. Goldbach
- Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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Boyas JF, Villarreal-Otálora T, Alvarez-Hernandez LR, Fatehi M. Suicide ideation, planning, and attempts: the case of the Latinx LGB youth. Health Promot Perspect 2019; 9:198-206. [PMID: 31508340 PMCID: PMC6717921 DOI: 10.15171/hpp.2019.28] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2019] [Accepted: 07/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Guided by an ecological systems theory (EST) framework, the purpose of the present study was to investigate how multiple micro, mezzo, and macro factors influence the suicidality continuum from suicidal ideation to suicide attempt among Latinx LGB (lesbian, gay, and bisexual) youth living in the United States. Methods: Data for this cross sectional-study included 451 participants who self-identified as Latinx LGB on the 2017-National Youth Risk Behavioral Survey. The analysis explored micro, mezzo, and macro-level factors' association with three suicidality outcomes (ideation, planning, and attempt) at the bivariate and multivariate level. Since the outcome variables were dichotomized, univariate logistic regressions and backward elimination logistic regressions were used. Results: The most commonly reported suicidal behavior was ideation (n = 173; 40%), followed by planning (n = 150; 34%), and then attempt (n = 64; 21%). Findings from the backward elimination logistic regression on suicidal ideation suggest the best set of independent variables are being bullied at school (odds ratio [OR] = 2.81; CI: 1.61-4.89), experiencing sexual assault(OR = 2.32; CI: 1.32-4.07), experiencing depressive symptoms (OR = 1.99; CI: 1.07- 3.69),being cannabis use (OR = 1.76; CI: 1.08-2.89), and being female (OR = 1.72; CI: 1.01-2.93).For suicide planning the model suggested, experiencing depressive symptoms (OR = 3.21; CI:1.74-5.91), cannabis use (OR = 2.46; CI: 1.49-4.07), being bullied at school (OR = 2.04; CI:1.17-3.58), and experiencing sexual assault (OR = 1.88; CI: 1.07-3.31) exhibited the strongest relationships. Suicide attempt was significantly associated with cannabis use (OR = 3.12; CI:1.60-6.08), experiencing depression (OR= 2.89; CI: 1.30-6.43), experiencing sexual assault (OR = 2.77; CI: 1.34-5.71), and being bullied at school (OR = 2.34; CI: 1.12-4.91). Conclusion: Given the findings of this study, it is essential that tailored suicide prevention efforts be established that uniquely address the intersections of race/ethnicity and sexual orientation and how this intersection influences micro, mezzo, and macro factors associated with suicide ideation, planning, and attempt among Latinx LGB adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier F. Boyas
- University of Georgia, School of Social Work, 279 Williams St., Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | | | | | - Mariam Fatehi
- University of Georgia, School of Social Work, 279 Williams St., Athens, GA, 30602, USA
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Suicidal behaviour among sexual-minority youth: a review of the role of acceptance and support. THE LANCET CHILD & ADOLESCENT HEALTH 2019; 3:190-198. [DOI: 10.1016/s2352-4642(18)30400-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2018] [Revised: 11/27/2018] [Accepted: 12/04/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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63
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Investigating the association between age at first alcohol use and suicidal ideation among high school students: Evidence from the youth risk behavior surveillance system. J Affect Disord 2019; 242:60-67. [PMID: 30172226 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2018.08.078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2018] [Revised: 08/09/2018] [Accepted: 08/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although various studies have investigated and found a significant link between age at first alcohol use and health risk behaviors, few studies have investigated the effect of age at first alcohol use on suicidal ideation among adolescents. The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of age at first alcohol use on suicidal ideation. METHODS Data for this study were obtained from the 2015 Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance system. A sample of 10,745 adolescents aged 14-18 years (50.9% males) were analyzed using logistic regression with suicidal ideation as the outcome variable and age at first alcohol use as the main explanatory variable. RESULTS About 17% of adolescents experienced suicidal ideation during the past 12 months and 15.6% started having alcohol before age 13. Adolescents who started having alcohol before age 13 had 1.60 times higher odds of experiencing suicidal ideation and adolescents who started having alcohol by age 13 or over had 1.47 times higher odds of experiencing suicidal ideation. Other significant factors associated with suicidal ideation include experience of forced sex, physical teen dating violence, bullying, and feeling sad or hopeless. Having sufficient sleep lowered the odds of suicidal ideation. LIMITATIONS The use of cross-sectional data limits the extent to which we can make causal claims regarding age at first alcohol use and suicidal ideation. CONCLUSIONS Younger age at first alcohol use was associated with increased likelihood of suicidal ideation. Public health initiatives that seek to address the co-occurring problems of alcohol use and mental health illness, sexual violence, and victimization among sexual minority youth could help in reducing suicidal ideation.
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Baiocco R, Pistella J, Salvati M, Ioverno S, Lucidi F. Sports as a risk environment: Homophobia and bullying in a sample of gay and heterosexual men. JOURNAL OF GAY & LESBIAN MENTAL HEALTH 2018. [DOI: 10.1080/19359705.2018.1489325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Baiocco
- Department of Social and Developmental Psychology, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Jessica Pistella
- Department of Social and Developmental Psychology, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Salvati
- Department of Social and Developmental Psychology, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Salvatore Ioverno
- Population Research Center, Human Development and Family Sciences, The University of Texas, Austin, Texas, USA
| | - Fabio Lucidi
- Department of Social and Developmental Psychology, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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Burk J, Park M, Saewyc EM. A Media-Based School Intervention to Reduce Sexual Orientation Prejudice and Its Relationship to Discrimination, Bullying, and the Mental Health of Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Adolescents in Western Canada: A Population-Based Evaluation. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2018; 15:ijerph15112447. [PMID: 30400236 PMCID: PMC6265963 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph15112447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2018] [Revised: 10/30/2018] [Accepted: 10/30/2018] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
School interventions to address sexual orientation discrimination can be important tools for fostering inclusive school climate, and improving student wellbeing. In this study, we empirically evaluated a film-based intervention, Out in Schools, designed to reduce sexual orientation prejudice and foster inclusive school attitudes. Our evaluation mapped data about Out in Schools presentations onto student data from the random cluster-stratified, province-wide 2013 British Columbia Adolescent Health Survey (BCAHS) as well as potential confounding variables of Gay-Straight Alliance clubs (GSAs) and inclusive school policies. Outcome measures included past year sexual orientation discrimination, bullying, suicidal ideation, and school connectedness among lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) and heterosexual (HET) students in grades 8 through 12 (ages 13 to 18; unweighted N = 21,075, weighted/scaled N = 184,821). Analyses used complex samples logistic regression, adjusted for sample design, conducted separately by gender and orientation. We found Out in Schools presentations were associated with reduced odds of LGB students experiencing discrimination, and both LGB and HET girl students being bullied or considering suicide, and increased levels of school connectedness, even after controlling for GSAs and policies. Out in Schools appears to have an additive contribution to reducing orientation prejudice and improving LGB and heterosexual student wellbeing within schools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jillian Burk
- Stigma and Resilience Among Vulnerable Youth Centre, School of Nursing, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 2B5, Canada.
| | - Minjeong Park
- Stigma and Resilience Among Vulnerable Youth Centre, School of Nursing, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 2B5, Canada.
| | - Elizabeth M Saewyc
- Stigma and Resilience Among Vulnerable Youth Centre, School of Nursing, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 2B5, Canada.
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66
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Markota M, McKean AJ, Romanowicz M, Schak KM, Croarkin PE, Vande Voort JL. Rehospitalization to a child and adolescent psychiatry unit: Role of trauma and bullying. Gen Hosp Psychiatry 2018; 55:10-14. [PMID: 30193205 DOI: 10.1016/j.genhosppsych.2018.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2018] [Revised: 08/28/2018] [Accepted: 08/30/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Psychiatric rehospitalizations results in a significant burden to patients, families, and health care systems. Understanding psychiatric rehospitalizations offers an opportunity to identify weaknesses in current systems of care. The objective of this study was to test the hypothesis that a history of trauma or ongoing bullying increases the risk of psychiatric rehospitalization. METHOD Retrospective cohort study of 366 individual patients (71% female) admitted to a pediatric psychiatry unit between 1/1/2015 and 12/31/2015. The primary outcome measure was rehospitalization to the same psychiatric hospital unit within one year of first discharge. Trauma was defined as having a history of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Reactive Attachment Disorder, or a filed Suspected Abuse and Neglect of a Child report by the end of first hospitalization. Ongoing bullying was identified by medical record review. RESULTS History of trauma (Odds Ratio (OR) = 3.2, 95% Confidence Interval (CI) = 1.8-5.6, p < 0.0001) and ongoing bullying (OR = 2.2, CI = 1.2-3.9, p = 0.009) were significantly associated with increased rates of rehospitalizations. We controlled for the following covariates: Patient Health Questionnaire-9 Modified (PHQ-9M) score, gender, age, relative age, initial length of stay, disrupted family system, and sexual orientation/identity. CONCLUSION History of trauma or ongoing bullying are important risk factors for pediatric psychiatric rehospitalization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matej Markota
- Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
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67
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Policy brief: Protecting vulnerable LGBTQ youth and advocating for ethical health care. Nurs Outlook 2018; 66:505-507. [DOI: 10.1016/j.outlook.2018.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
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68
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Abstract
Suicide is 1 of the top 3 leading causes of death in the pediatric population and a serious public health concern. There are evidence-based screening tools for suicide in the pediatric population; however, predicting suicide risks can be a difficult task. The emergency department is an essential source of mental health care for youths and can serve as an important opportunity for suicide screening and subsequent targeted interventions and resource management. More research is needed in emergency department-based screening algorithms and evidence-driven interventions in the pediatric population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrian Jacques H Ambrose
- Department of Psychiatry, Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Massachusetts General Hospital, Suite 6A, 55 Fruit Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
| | - Laura M Prager
- Department of Psychiatry, Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Massachusetts General Hospital, Suite 6A, 55 Fruit Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA
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69
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Wilton L, Chiasson MA, Nandi V, Lelutiu-Weinberger C, Frye V, Hirshfield S, Hoover DR, Downing MJ, Lucy D, Usher D, Koblin B. Characteristics and Correlates of Lifetime Suicidal Thoughts and Attempts Among Young Black Men Who Have Sex With Men (MSM) and Transgender Women. JOURNAL OF BLACK PSYCHOLOGY 2018. [DOI: 10.1177/0095798418771819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
This study examined characteristics and correlates of lifetime suicidal thoughts and suicide attempts among HIV-negative young Black men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women (transwomen) between 16 and 29 years of age ( N = 161). In our sample, 36.6% of young Black MSM and transwomen reported a history of lifetime suicidal thoughts, while 16.1% reported prior suicide attempts. Using multivariable analysis, a history of intimate partner violence, greater psychological distress, and higher perceived sexuality discrimination were significantly associated with lifetime suicidal thoughts. Childhood sexual abuse history, greater psychological distress, lower score for outness, and higher perceived sexuality discrimination were significantly related to suicide attempts among young Black MSM and transwomen. Efforts to identify and understand factors associated with lifetime suicidal thoughts and attempts are urgently needed to inform the development and implementation of culturally relevant mental health prevention strategies for young Black MSM and transwomen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leo Wilton
- State University of New York at Binghamton, Binghamton, NY, USA
- University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
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70
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Zeluf G, Dhejne C, Orre C, Mannheimer LN, Deogan C, Höijer J, Winzer R, Thorson AE. Targeted Victimization and Suicidality Among Trans People: A Web-Based Survey. LGBT Health 2018; 5:180-190. [PMID: 29641313 PMCID: PMC5905855 DOI: 10.1089/lgbt.2017.0011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate the associations between a series of empirically known risk and protective factors and suicidality among trans people in Sweden. Methods: Participants were self-selected anonymously to a web-based survey conducted in 2014. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to assess associations between contributing factors and suicide ideation in the past 12 months and lifetime suicide attempts. Results: The analysis included 796 trans individuals, between 15 and 94 years of age, who live in Sweden. A total of 37% of respondents reported that they have seriously considered suicide during the past 12 months and 32% had ever attempted a suicide. Offensive treatment during the past three months and lifetime exposure to trans-related violence were significantly associated with suicidality. Less satisfaction with contacts with friends and acquaintances and with one's own psychological wellbeing were associated with suicide ideation in the past 12 months. Lack of practical support was associated with lifetime suicide attempts. Conclusions: Our findings show that suicidality is directly correlated with trans-related victimization. Preventing targeted victimization is, therefore, a key preventive intervention against this elevated suicidality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Galit Zeluf
- 1 Department of Public Health Sciences, Karolinska Institutet , Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Cecilia Dhejne
- 2 Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Centre for Psychiatry Research, Karolinska Institutet , Stockholm, Sweden .,3 ANOVA, Andrology, Sexual Medicine, and Transgender Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital , Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Carolina Orre
- 4 Department of Health and HIV-Prevention, the Swedish Federation for LGBTQ Rights (RFSL) , Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Louise Nilunger Mannheimer
- 5 Department of Learning, Informatics, Management and Ethics, Karolinska Institutet , Stockholm, Sweden .,6 Department of Communicable Disease Control and Health Protection, the Public Health Agency of Sweden , Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Charlotte Deogan
- 1 Department of Public Health Sciences, Karolinska Institutet , Stockholm, Sweden .,6 Department of Communicable Disease Control and Health Protection, the Public Health Agency of Sweden , Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jonas Höijer
- 7 Unit of Biostatistics, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet , Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Regina Winzer
- 1 Department of Public Health Sciences, Karolinska Institutet , Stockholm, Sweden .,8 Department of Living Conditions and Lifestyles, the Public Health Agency of Sweden, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anna Ekéus Thorson
- 1 Department of Public Health Sciences, Karolinska Institutet , Stockholm, Sweden
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71
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Williams S, Schneider M, Wornell C, Langhinrichsen-Rohling J. Student's Perceptions of School Safety: It Is Not Just About Being Bullied. J Sch Nurs 2018. [PMID: 29540110 DOI: 10.1177/1059840518761792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
This study examined the relationship of students' perceptions of school safety and school avoidance related to feeling unsafe with predictor variables: bullying victimization, student/teacher/parent/administration relations, rule clarity and consistency, school physical environment (negative and positive), and student's belongingness. In a public high school sample ( n = 585), 24.7% of students felt unsafe and 14.4% avoided school due to feeling unsafe during the past month. Being female and experiencing bullying was associated with feeling unsafe. However, after accounting for demographics and bullying victimization, perceptions of safety increased when students reported positive student and teacher relations, consistent rules, a clean school that is also crowded/noisy, and a sense of school belonging. Avoiding school because of safety concerns was related to decreased school belonging and teacher/student relationships, but not bullying. Focusing on enhancing the school climate/environment, facilitating student belongingness, and reducing bullying are ways school nurses can help promote safer schools.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Cory Wornell
- 1 University of South Alabama, Fairhope, AL, USA
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72
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Barrientos J, Escartín J, Longares L, Rodríguez-Carballeira Á. Sociodemographic characteristics of gay and lesbian victims of intimate partner psychological abuse in Spain and Latin America / Características sociodemográficas de gais y lesbianas víctimas de abuso psicológico en pareja en España e Hispanoamérica. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY 2018. [DOI: 10.1080/02134748.2018.1446393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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73
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Abreu RL, Kenny MC. Cyberbullying and LGBTQ Youth: A Systematic Literature Review and Recommendations for Prevention and Intervention. JOURNAL OF CHILD & ADOLESCENT TRAUMA 2018; 11:81-97. [PMID: 32318140 PMCID: PMC7163911 DOI: 10.1007/s40653-017-0175-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Research has demonstrated that cyberbullying has adverse physical and mental health consequences for youths. Unfortunately, most studies have focused on heterosexual and cisgender individuals. The scant available research on sexual minority and gender expansive youth (i.e., LGBTQ) shows that this group is at a higher risk for cyberbullying when compared to their heterosexual counterparts. However, to date no literature review has comprehensively explored the effects of cyberbullying on LGBTQ youth. A systematic review resulted in 27 empirical studies that explore the effects of cyberbullying on LGBTQ youth. Findings revealed that the percentage of cyberbullying among LGBTQ youth ranges between 10.5% and 71.3% across studies. Common negative effects of cyberbullying of LGBTQ youth include psychological and emotional (suicidal ideation and attempt, depression, lower self-esteem), behavioral (physical aggression, body image, isolation), and academic performance (lower GPAs). Recommendations and interventions for students, schools, and parents are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto L. Abreu
- Department of Educational, School, and Counseling Psychology, College of Education, University of Kentucky, 251 Dickey Hall, Lexington, KY 40506 USA
| | - Maureen C. Kenny
- Leadership and Professional Studies, College of Arts, Science and Education, Florida International University, Miami, FL USA
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74
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Wang J, Häusermann M, Ambresin AE. Mindfulness and Other Psycho-Social Resources Protective Against Mental Illness and Suicidality Among Gay Men. Front Psychiatry 2018; 9:361. [PMID: 30140241 PMCID: PMC6095030 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2018.00361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2018] [Accepted: 07/19/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: There is considerable evidence of health disparities among gay men characterized by higher levels of stress and distress. Psycho-social resources have been linked to numerous positive health outcomes and shown to act as buffers in the stress-distress pathway. Methods: With data from the 3rd Geneva Gay Men's Health Survey carried out in 2011 using time-space sampling (n = 428), a relatively elaborate profile of 14 psycho-social resources-including mindfulness-is presented. Using their original scores, latent class analysis created an index variable dividing the respondents into meaningful groups. Psycho-social resources-the index variable as well as each resource individually-were then compared to two recent outcomes-i.e., serious mental illness in the past 4 weeks and short-term disability in the past 2 weeks-using a series of logistic regression models, controlling for all other psycho-social resources and socio-demographic confounders. To assess their potential role as buffers, a similar series of logistic regression models were erected using victimization and three outcomes-i.e., major depression, suicidal ideation, and suicide attempt-in the past 12 months. Results: According to the latent class analyses, (1) 5.1% of this sample had a low level of psycho-social resources (i.e., one standard deviation (SD) below the group means), (2) 25.2% a medium-low level, (3) 47.4% a medium level (i.e., at the group means), and (4) 22.2% a high level of psycho-social resources (i.e., one SD above the group means). Psycho-social resources appeared to strongly protect against recent mental morbidity and buffer against the impact of victimization on major depression and suicidality in the past 12 months, reducing the adjusted odds ratios below statistical significance. The explained variance and the individual psycho-social resources which remained independent in the models differed for each outcome. Conclusions: There may be disparities in several psycho-social resources among gay men, and as strong compensatory and protective factors, they may explain in part the well-established disparities in stress and distress in this population. While multiple psycho-social resources should be promoted in this population, gay men under 25 years should receive particular attention as all three disparities are most pronounced in this age group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jen Wang
- Interdisciplinary Division for Adolescent Health (DISA), Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | | | - Anne-Emmanuelle Ambresin
- Interdisciplinary Division for Adolescent Health (DISA), Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV), Lausanne, Switzerland
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75
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High Stakes for the Health of Sexual and Gender Minority Patients of Color. J Gen Intern Med 2017; 32:1390-1395. [PMID: 28798997 PMCID: PMC5698216 DOI: 10.1007/s11606-017-4138-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2017] [Revised: 05/09/2017] [Accepted: 07/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
As clinicians, educators, and researchers, our ability to provide the best possible care to our patients who are sexual and gender minority (SGM) people of color is increasingly challenged. Relative to the general population, SGM patients often have worse health outcomes, and among SGM patients, racial and ethnic minorities are particularly vulnerable. Healthcare policies proposed by the current administration, along with an increasingly hostile and dangerous social climate, have the potential to seriously harm SGM patients of color. In this paper, we discuss these key policy issues impacting the health of SGM patients of color. We then suggest questions for clinicians to consider to help them decide which advocacy activities are right for them, recommending self-examination, skills development, and political action. We end by outlining concrete, actionable steps to advocate for SGM patients of color in patient care, healthcare organizations, medical education, research, and public policy.
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76
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Ekmekci PE. Do we have a moral responsibility to compensate for vulnerable groups? A discussion on the right to health for LGBT people. MEDICINE, HEALTH CARE, AND PHILOSOPHY 2017; 20:335-341. [PMID: 27889854 PMCID: PMC5446302 DOI: 10.1007/s11019-016-9750-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Vulnerability is a broad concept widely addressed in recent scholarly literature. Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) people are among the vulnerable populations with significant disadvantages related to health and the social determinants of health. Medical ethics discourse tackles vulnerability from philosophical and political perspectives. LGBT people experience several disadvantages from both perspectives. This article aims to justify the right to health for LGBT people and their particular claims regarding healthcare because they belong to a vulnerable group. Rawls' theory of justice and Norman Daniels' normal functioning approach will be discussed in this context. Despite the fact that the right to health can be justified by Daniels' normal functioning approach, there is still a theoretical gap in justifying the right to health for particular vulnerable populations such as LGBT peopleand discussing society's duty to compensate for these disadvantages. In search of solid theoretical grounds for the justification of the right to health for LGBT people, the present author takes the opportunity to utilize Daniels' flexible definition of normal functioning to show that normal functioning not only varies by age but also by different states of human existence, including sexual orientation and gender identity, and to propose replacing the life span approach with normal states of human existence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Perihan Elif Ekmekci
- Department of History of Medicine and Ethics, Faculty of Medicine, TOBB University of Economics and Technology, Söğütözü, Söğütözü Cd. No:43, 06560, Ankara, Turkey.
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Phillips G, Turner B, Salamanca P, Birkett M, Hatzenbuehler ML, Newcomb ME, Marro R, Mustanski B. Victimization as a mediator of alcohol use disparities between sexual minority subgroups and sexual majority youth using the 2015 National Youth Risk Behavior Survey. Drug Alcohol Depend 2017; 178:355-362. [PMID: 28692946 PMCID: PMC5555415 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2017.05.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2017] [Revised: 05/18/2017] [Accepted: 05/18/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alcohol use among underage youth is a significant public health concern. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, alcohol is the "drug of choice" among adolescents, meaning more youth use and abuse alcohol than any other substance. Prevalence of alcohol use is disproportionately higher among sexual minority youth (SMY) than among their heterosexual peers. We examined sexual identity and sexual behavior disparities in alcohol use, and the mediational role of bullying in a sample of high school students. METHODS Data from the 2015 National Youth Risk Behavior Survey were used to assess the association between sexual minority status (identity and behavior) and alcohol use with weighted logistic regression. Due to well-documented differences between males and females, we stratified models by gender. Physical and cyberbullying were examined as mediators of the relationship between sexual minority status and alcohol use. RESULTS We detected associations between certain subgroups of sexual minority youth and alcohol use across all four drinking variables (ever drank alcohol, age at first drink, current alcohol use, and binge drinking). Most of these associations were found among bisexual-identified youth and students with both male and female sexual partners; these individuals had up to twice the odds of engaging in alcohol use behaviors when compared with sexual majority students. Associations were strongest among females. Bullying mediated sexual minority status and alcohol use only among bisexual females. CONCLUSIONS As disparities in alcohol use differ by gender, sexual identity, and sexual behavior, interventions should be targeted accordingly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory Phillips
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 625 N. Michigan Ave., 14th Floor, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA.
| | - Blair Turner
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 625 N. Michigan Ave., 14th Floor, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Paul Salamanca
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 625 N. Michigan Ave., 14th Floor, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Michelle Birkett
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 625 N. Michigan Ave., 14th Floor, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Mark L Hatzenbuehler
- Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, 722 West 168th St., New York City, NY 10032, USA
| | - Michael E Newcomb
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 625 N. Michigan Ave., 14th Floor, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Rachel Marro
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 625 N. Michigan Ave., 14th Floor, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Brian Mustanski
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 625 N. Michigan Ave., 14th Floor, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
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78
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Williams SG. Mental Health Issues Related to Sexual Orientation in a High School Setting. J Sch Nurs 2017; 33:383-392. [PMID: 28049365 DOI: 10.1177/1059840516686841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
High school students are maturing physically, psychosocially, and sexually. Some may be unsure of their sexual orientation. The purpose of the study was to determine whether students who self-identified as homosexual-lesbian/gay, bisexual (LGB), and unsure of sexual orientation had more stressful life events (SLEs), perceived stress, bullying victimization, and depressive symptoms as compared to heterosexual peers. Cortisol was examined to determine whether levels were within normal range for age and followed a normal diurnal rhythm. This correlational design included five surveys to assess n = 143 ninth graders. LGB and unsure students had more SLEs, perceived stress, bullying victimization, and depressive symptoms than heterosexual peers. All participants had normal cortisol levels, with the majority having normal diurnal rhythms. School nurses should consider more training about LGB and unsure students. Additional outreach, support, screening, or referrals for LGB and unsure students are warranted if the school nurse suspects depressive symptoms.
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