101
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Carter SP, Allred KM, Tucker RP, Simpson TL, Shipherd JC, Lehavot K. Discrimination and Suicidal Ideation Among Transgender Veterans: The Role of Social Support and Connection. LGBT Health 2019; 6:43-50. [DOI: 10.1089/lgbt.2018.0239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah P. Carter
- Seattle-Denver Center of Innovation for Veteran-Centered and Value-Driven Care, VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, Washington
- Department of Health Services, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | | | - Raymond P. Tucker
- Department of Psychology, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, Louisiana
| | - Tracy L. Simpson
- Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, Washington
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
- Center of Excellence in Substance Abuse Treatment and Education (CESATE), VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, Washington
| | - Jillian C. Shipherd
- LGBT Health Program, Department of Veterans Affairs, Washington, District of Columbia
- Women's Health Sciences Division, National Center for PTSD, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Keren Lehavot
- Seattle-Denver Center of Innovation for Veteran-Centered and Value-Driven Care, VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, Washington
- Department of Health Services, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
- Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, Washington
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
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102
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Ramirez JL, Paz Galupo M. Multiple minority stress: The role of proximal and distal stress on mental health outcomes among lesbian, gay, and bisexual people of color. JOURNAL OF GAY & LESBIAN MENTAL HEALTH 2019. [DOI: 10.1080/19359705.2019.1568946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - M. Paz Galupo
- Department of Psychology, Towson University, Towson, Maryland, USA
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103
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Heron KE, Lewis RJ, Shappie AT, Dawson CA, Amerson R, Braitman AL, Winstead BA, Kelley ML. Rationale and Design of a Remote Web-Based Daily Diary Study Examining Sexual Minority Stress, Relationship Factors, and Alcohol Use in Same-Sex Female Couples Across the United States: Study Protocol of Project Relate. JMIR Res Protoc 2019; 8:e11718. [PMID: 30714946 PMCID: PMC6378553 DOI: 10.2196/11718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2018] [Revised: 10/24/2018] [Accepted: 10/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The Healthy People 2020 initiative aims to reduce health disparities, including alcohol use, among sexual minority women (SMW; eg, lesbian, bisexual, queer, and pansexual). Compared with heterosexual women, SMW engage in more hazardous drinking and report more alcohol-related problems. Sexual minority stress (ie, the unique experiences associated with stigmatization and marginalization) has been associated with alcohol use among SMW. Among heterosexuals, relationship factors (eg, partner violence and drinking apart vs together) have also been associated with alcohol use. Negative affect has also been identified as a contributor to alcohol use. To date, most studies examining alcohol use among SMW have used cross-sectional or longitudinal designs. Objective Project Relate was designed to increase our understanding of alcohol use among young SMW who are at risk for alcohol problems. The primary objectives of this study are to identify daily factors, as well as potential person-level risk and protective factors, which may contribute to alcohol use in SMW. Secondary objectives include examining other physical and mental concerns in this sample (eg, other substance use, eating, physical activity, and stress). Methods Both partners of a female same-sex couple (aged 18-35 years; n=150 couples) are being enrolled in the study following preliminary screening by a market research firm that specializes in recruiting sexual minority individuals. Web-based surveys are being used to collect information about the primary constructs of interest (daily experiences of alcohol use, sexual minority stress, relationship interactions, and mood) as well as secondary measures of other physical and mental health constructs. Data are collected entirely remotely from women across the United States. Each member of eligible couples completes a baseline survey and then 14 days of daily surveys each morning. Data will be analyzed using multilevel structural equation modeling. Results To date, 208 women (ie, 104 couples) were successfully screened and enrolled into the study. In total, 164 women have completed the 14-day daily protocol. Compliance with completing the daily diaries has been excellent, with participants on average completing 92% of the daily diaries. Data collection will be completed in fall 2018, with results published as early as 2019 or 2020. Conclusions Project Relate is designed to increase our understanding of between- and within-person processes underlying hazardous drinking in understudied, at-risk SMW. The study includes a remote daily diary methodology to provide insight into variables that may be associated with daily hazardous alcohol use. Before the development of programs that address hazardous alcohol use among young SMW, there is a need for better understanding of individual and dyadic variables that contribute to risk in this population. The unique challenges of recruiting and enrolling SMW from across the United States in a daily diary study are discussed. International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/11718
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin E Heron
- Department of Psychology, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA, United States.,Virginia Consortium Program in Clinical Psychology, Norfolk, VA, United States
| | - Robin J Lewis
- Department of Psychology, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA, United States.,Virginia Consortium Program in Clinical Psychology, Norfolk, VA, United States
| | - Alexander T Shappie
- Virginia Consortium Program in Clinical Psychology, Norfolk, VA, United States
| | - Charlotte A Dawson
- Virginia Consortium Program in Clinical Psychology, Norfolk, VA, United States
| | - Rachel Amerson
- Virginia Consortium Program in Clinical Psychology, Norfolk, VA, United States
| | - Abby L Braitman
- Department of Psychology, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA, United States.,Virginia Consortium Program in Clinical Psychology, Norfolk, VA, United States
| | - Barbara A Winstead
- Department of Psychology, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA, United States.,Virginia Consortium Program in Clinical Psychology, Norfolk, VA, United States
| | - Michelle L Kelley
- Department of Psychology, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA, United States.,Virginia Consortium Program in Clinical Psychology, Norfolk, VA, United States
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104
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Tucker RP, Testa RJ, Reger MA, Simpson TL, Shipherd JC, Lehavot K. Current and Military-Specific Gender Minority Stress Factors and Their Relationship with Suicide Ideation in Transgender Veterans. Suicide Life Threat Behav 2019; 49:155-166. [PMID: 29327446 DOI: 10.1111/sltb.12432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2017] [Accepted: 08/28/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Research suggests the prevalence of suicide ideation and suicide attempts in the transgender veteran community may be upwards of 20 times higher than nontransgender veterans, who are known to be at increased risk than the general US population. This study aimed to understand the potential influence of external and internal minority stress experienced during and after military service on past-year and recent suicide ideation in a sample of 201 transgender veterans. Nonparametric bootstrapping analyses indicated past-year transgender-specific discrimination and rejection (external minority stress) indirectly predicted frequency of both past-year and past 2-week suicide ideation through past-year shame related to gender identity (internal minority stress). This result was significant when controlling for symptoms of depression and demographics. Similar patterns emerged when examining relationships among military external and internal minority stress on suicide outcomes. These results suggest that attempts to reduce both the experience and impact of minority stressors related to gender identity during and after military service may be an important avenue for suicide prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raymond P Tucker
- Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA.,VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA
| | | | - Mark A Reger
- VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA.,University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Tracy L Simpson
- VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA.,University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Jillian C Shipherd
- Department of Veterans Affairs, National Center for PTSD, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Keren Lehavot
- VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA.,University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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105
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Fisher CM, Woodford MR, Gartner RE, Sterzing PR, Victor BG. Advancing Research on LGBTQ Microaggressions: A Psychometric Scoping Review of Measures. JOURNAL OF HOMOSEXUALITY 2018; 66:1345-1379. [PMID: 30582729 DOI: 10.1080/00918369.2018.1539581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Understanding the nature and consequences of LGBTQ microaggressions is critical to fostering equity and wellbeing among sexual and gender minorities. Yet little guidance is available for researchers seeking psychometrically robust measures of subtle LGBTQ slights, invalidations, and insults. To address this gap, we conducted a scoping review of multi-item quantitative measures that included at least one question addressing LGBTQ microaggressions. This article reports the study characteristics and psychometric properties of 27 original measures we identified and their subsequent adaptations. The article concludes with an assessment of strengths and limitations of LGBTQ microaggression measurement, highlighting aspects of measurement innovation on which future researchers can build. As microaggressions remain a powerful and underexplored mechanism of sexual and gender minority oppression, this review will help to both advance methodological quality in this critical research area and enhance our understanding of how microaggressions manifest in the lives of LGBTQ individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colleen M Fisher
- a School of Social Work , University of Minnesota , St. Paul , Minnesota , USA
| | - Michael R Woodford
- b Lyle S. Hallman Faculty of Social Work , Wilfrid Laurier University , Kitchener , Ontario , Canada
| | - Rachel E Gartner
- c School of Social Welfare , University of California , Berkeley , California , USA
| | - Paul R Sterzing
- c School of Social Welfare , University of California , Berkeley , California , USA
| | - Bryan G Victor
- d School of Social Work , University of Michigan , Ann Arbor , Michigan , USA
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106
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Resnick CA, Galupo MP. Assessing Experiences With LGBT Microaggressions in the Workplace: Development and Validation of the Microaggression Experiences at Work Scale. JOURNAL OF HOMOSEXUALITY 2018; 66:1380-1403. [PMID: 30475170 DOI: 10.1080/00918369.2018.1542207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
LGBT people experience microaggressions in the workplace; however, limited research exists in this area partly due to a lack of psychometrically sound instruments measuring the prevalence of LGBT microaggressions in the workplace. To address this gap, an empirical study was conducted and the LGBT-MEWS was created and tested. The LGBT-MEWS is a 27-item self-report scale comprising three subscales. Each subscale conceptually represents a different domain through which microaggressions impact LGBT employees: (1) workplace values, (2) heteronormative assumptions, and (3) cisnormative culture. The results of testing indicated that the subscales demonstrate strong reliability and validity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Courtney A Resnick
- a College of Arts & Sciences, University of San Francisco , San Francisco , California , USA
| | - M Paz Galupo
- b Department of Psychology , Towson University , Towson , Maryland , USA
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107
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Heron KE, Braitman AL, Lewis RJ, Shappie AT, Hitson PT. Measuring Sexual Minority Stressors in Lesbian Women's Daily Lives: Initial Scale Development. PSYCHOLOGY OF SEXUAL ORIENTATION AND GENDER DIVERSITY 2018; 5:387-395. [PMID: 30221178 DOI: 10.1037/sgd0000287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Lesbian women face unique sexual minority stressors (SMS) due to their stigmatized and marginalized status in society. Existing studies of SMS are primarily cross-sectional and use global measures of SMS. The goal of the present study was to develop a brief daily measure of SMS for use in daily diary or ecological momentary assessment (EMA) studies. Existing retrospective measures of SMS were reviewed, resulting in an initial pool of 29 items. Thirty-eight lesbian women (Mage=24.3 years, range: 19-30 years) completed a daily web-based survey including the SMS items for 12 days. Two response scales were tested; participants were randomized to receive a 3-point (for brevity) or 7-point (for precision) scale for the first 6 days and the other response scale for the remaining 6 days to counterbalance order. Findings suggest the 7-point scale was optimal because it provided greater variability. To reduce scale length, item correlations were examined to identify clusters and one item was retained from each cluster, reducing the scale to 18 items. Then, using HLM, null models with each item as the outcome were conducted to examine level-1 and level-2 variances; 8-, 10-, 12-, and 18-item scales were compared to identify the ideal number of items. The 8-item scale had the highest Cronbach's alpha (.85) and the smallest intraclass correlation (ICC; .13), suggesting these 8 items are optimal for capturing within-person variability in young lesbian women's daily SMS experiences. As researchers are increasingly interested in using EMA methods, this 8-item measure can assess SMS in lesbian women's everyday lives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin E Heron
- Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA.,Virginia Consortium Program in Clinical Psychology, Norfolk, VA
| | | | - Robin J Lewis
- Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA.,Virginia Consortium Program in Clinical Psychology, Norfolk, VA
| | | | - Phoebe T Hitson
- Virginia Consortium Program in Clinical Psychology, Norfolk, VA
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108
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Demant D, Hides L, Kavanagh DJ, White KM, Winstock AR, Ferris J. Differences in substance use between sexual orientations in a multi-country sample: findings from the Global Drug Survey 2015. J Public Health (Oxf) 2018; 39:532-541. [PMID: 27519959 DOI: 10.1093/pubmed/fdw069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Background This study examines substance use disparities among homosexual, bisexual and heterosexual adolescents and young adults from nine countries. Methods Data from 58 963 respondents (aged 16 and 35 years) to the 2015 'Global Drug Survey' were utilized. Rates of lifetime, last-year, last-month use and age of onset of 13 different substances were compared across sexual identity subgroups. Results Adolescents and young adults with a sexual minority identity generally reported higher rates of substance use and an earlier age of onset compared to their heterosexual counterparts. Differences in substance use were larger among female groups than male groups, and rates of substance use were generally higher among bisexuals than homosexuals of both genders. Conclusion Higher rates of substance use in bisexuals compared with homosexuals among both genders and larger differences between female groups highlight the importance of differentiating between sexual minority identities in substance use research, and in designing substance misuse interventions for people with a sexual minority identity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Demant
- School of Psychology and Counselling and Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Leanne Hides
- School of Psychology and Counselling and Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - David J Kavanagh
- School of Psychology and Counselling and Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Katherine M White
- School of Psychology and Counselling and Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | | | - Jason Ferris
- Institute for Social Science Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia.,ARC Centre for Excellence for Children and Families over the Life Course, Institute for Social Science Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
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109
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Staples JM, Neilson EC, Bryan AEB, George WH. The Role of Distal Minority Stress and Internalized Transnegativity in Suicidal Ideation and Nonsuicidal Self-Injury Among Transgender Adults. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2018; 55:591-603. [PMID: 29148860 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2017.1393651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Transgender people are at elevated risk for nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) and suicidal ideation compared to the general population. Transgender (trans) refers to a diverse group of people who experience incongruence between their gender identity and sex assigned at birth. The present study is guided by the minority stress model and the psychological mediation framework, which postulate that sexual minority groups experience elevated stress as a result of anti-minority prejudice, contributing to negative mental health outcomes. This study utilized these theories to investigate the role of internalized transnegativity-internalization of negative societal attitudes about one's trans identity-in the relationships of distal trans stress to suicidal ideation and NSSI. A U.S. national sample of trans adults (N = 237) completed a battery of online measures. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to compare models with mediation and moderation effects. Results suggested that internalized transnegativity acts as both a mediator and a moderator in the relationship between distal trans stress and suicidal ideation. Log likelihood comparisons suggested moderation models had the superior fit for these data. Results suggest that clinical interventions should directly target individuals' internalized transnegativity as well as societal-level transnegativity.
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110
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Willis P, Almack K, Hafford-Letchfield T, Simpson P, Billings B, Mall N. Turning the Co-Production Corner: Methodological Reflections from an Action Research Project to Promote LGBT Inclusion in Care Homes for Older People. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2018; 15:ijerph15040695. [PMID: 29642460 PMCID: PMC5923737 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph15040695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2017] [Revised: 03/19/2018] [Accepted: 03/29/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Background: Older lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans (LGBT) residents are often invisible in long-term care settings. This article presents findings from a community-based action research project, which attempted to address this invisibility through co-produced research with LGBT community members. Particular Question: What conditions enable co-produced research to emerge in long-term residential care settings for older people? Aims of Project: To analyse outcomes and challenges of action-oriented, co-produced research in the given context. In particular, we explore how co-production as a collaborative approach to action-orientated research can emerge during the research/fieldwork process; and reflect critically on the ethics and effectiveness of this approach in advancing inclusion in context. Methods: The project was implemented across six residential care homes in England. Reflections are based on qualitative evaluation data gathered pre- and post-project, which includes 37 interviews with care home staff, managers and community advisors (two of whom are co-authors). Results and Conclusions: We discuss how the co-production turn emerged during research and evaluate how the politics of this approach helped advance inclusion—itself crucial to well-being. We argue for the value of co-produced research in instigating organizational change in older people’s care environments and of non-didactic storytelling in LGBT awareness-raising amongst staff.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Willis
- School for Policy Studies, University of Bristol, 8 Priory Road, Clifton, BS8 1TZ, UK.
| | - Kathryn Almack
- School of Health and Social Work, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, AL10 9AB, UK.
| | - Trish Hafford-Letchfield
- Department of Mental Health, Social Work, Interprofessional Learning and Integrative Medicine, School of Health and Education Middlesex University, Ground Floor, Town Hall Annex, The Burroughs, Hendon, London NW4 4BT, UK.
| | - Paul Simpson
- Department of Applied Health and Social Care, Edge Hill University, St Helens Road, Ormskirk, Lancs, L39 4QP, UK.
| | - Barbara Billings
- Department of Mental Health, Social Work, Interprofessional Learning and Integrative Medicine, School of Health and Education Middlesex University, Ground Floor, Town Hall Annex, The Burroughs, Hendon, London NW4 4BT, UK.
| | - Naresh Mall
- Department of Mental Health, Social Work, Interprofessional Learning and Integrative Medicine, School of Health and Education Middlesex University, Ground Floor, Town Hall Annex, The Burroughs, Hendon, London NW4 4BT, UK.
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111
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Schrager SM, Goldbach JT, Mamey MR. Development of the Sexual Minority Adolescent Stress Inventory. Front Psychol 2018; 9:319. [PMID: 29599737 PMCID: PMC5862853 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2018.00319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2017] [Accepted: 02/26/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Although construct measurement is critical to explanatory research and intervention efforts, rigorous measure development remains a notable challenge. For example, though the primary theoretical model for understanding health disparities among sexual minority (e.g., lesbian, gay, bisexual) adolescents is minority stress theory, nearly all published studies of this population rely on minority stress measures with poor psychometric properties and development procedures. In response, we developed the Sexual Minority Adolescent Stress Inventory (SMASI) with N = 346 diverse adolescents ages 14–17, using a comprehensive approach to de novo measure development designed to produce a measure with desirable psychometric properties. After exploratory factor analysis on 102 candidate items informed by a modified Delphi process, we applied item response theory techniques to the remaining 72 items. Discrimination and difficulty parameters and item characteristic curves were estimated overall, within each of 12 initially derived factors, and across demographic subgroups. Two items were removed for excessive discrimination and three were removed following reliability analysis. The measure demonstrated configural and scalar invariance for gender and age; a three-item factor was excluded for demonstrating substantial differences by sexual identity and race/ethnicity. The final 64-item measure comprised 11 subscales and demonstrated excellent overall (α = 0.98), subscale (α range 0.75–0.96), and test–retest (scale r > 0.99; subscale r range 0.89–0.99) reliabilities. Subscales represented a mix of proximal and distal stressors, including domains of internalized homonegativity, identity management, intersectionality, and negative expectancies (proximal) and social marginalization, family rejection, homonegative climate, homonegative communication, negative disclosure experiences, religion, and work domains (distal). Thus, the SMASI development process illustrates a method to incorporate information from multiple sources, including item response theory models, to guide item selection in building a psychometrically sound measure. We posit that similar methods can be used to improve construct measurement across all areas of psychological research, particularly in areas where a strong theoretical framework exists but existing measures are limited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheree M Schrager
- Office of Research and Sponsored Programs, California State University, Northridge, Northridge, CA, United States.,Division of Hospital Medicine, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Jeremy T Goldbach
- Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Mary Rose Mamey
- Division of Hospital Medicine, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
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112
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Vencill JA, Carlson S, Iantaffi A, Miner M. Mental health, relationships, and sex: exploring patterns among bisexual individuals in mixed orientation relationships. SEXUAL AND RELATIONSHIP THERAPY 2017. [DOI: 10.1080/14681994.2017.1419570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer A. Vencill
- Program in Human Sexuality, Department of Family Medicine & Community Health, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Samantha Carlson
- Program in Human Sexuality, Department of Family Medicine & Community Health, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | | | - Michael Miner
- Program in Human Sexuality, Department of Family Medicine & Community Health, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
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113
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Kennedy HR, Dalla RL, Dreesman S. "We are Two of the Lucky Ones": Experiences with Marriage and Wellbeing for Same-Sex Couples. JOURNAL OF HOMOSEXUALITY 2017; 65:1207-1231. [PMID: 29199908 DOI: 10.1080/00918369.2017.1407612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Happy marriages provide protective health benefits, and social support is a key factor in this association. However, previous research indicates one of the greatest differences between same- and different-sex couples is less social support for same-sex couples. Our goal was to examine the extent to which formal markers of couple status (e.g., marriage) impact wellbeing among same-sex married partners. Using a mixed-methods approach, data were collected from 218 primarily White gay and lesbian individuals in the Midwest. Quantitative analysis revealed individuals in a prior formal union with a different-sex partner reported the lowest levels of sexuality specific social support and acceptance. Qualitative analysis revealed four primary impacts of marriage on support from family, friends, and co-workers: no change, increased support, decreased support, and a synthesis of mixed support. Three mechanisms prompting change in the family were identified and are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather R Kennedy
- a Department of Child, Youth, and Family Studies , University of Nebraska-Lincoln , Lincoln , Nebraska , USA
| | - Rochelle L Dalla
- a Department of Child, Youth, and Family Studies , University of Nebraska-Lincoln , Lincoln , Nebraska , USA
| | - Steven Dreesman
- b School of Applied Human Sciences , University of Northern Iowa , Cedar Falls , Iowa , USA
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114
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Peterson CH, Dalley LM, Dombrowski SC, Maier C. A Review of Instruments that Measure LGBTQ Affirmation and Discrimination Constructs in Adults. JOURNAL OF LGBT ISSUES IN COUNSELING 2017. [DOI: 10.1080/15538605.2017.1380555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Christina Hamme Peterson
- Department of Graduate Education, Leadership, and Counseling, Rider University, Lawrenceville, New Jersey, USA
| | - Lauren M. Dalley
- Department of Graduate Education, Leadership, and Counseling, Rider University, Lawrenceville, New Jersey, USA
| | - Stefan C. Dombrowski
- Department of Graduate Education, Leadership, and Counseling, Rider University, Lawrenceville, New Jersey, USA
| | - Collin Maier
- Department of Graduate Education, Leadership, and Counseling, Rider University, Lawrenceville, New Jersey, USA
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115
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Rogers AH, Seager I, Haines N, Hahn H, Aldao A, Ahn WY. The Indirect Effect of Emotion Regulation on Minority Stress and Problematic Substance Use in Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Individuals. Front Psychol 2017; 8:1881. [PMID: 29118731 PMCID: PMC5660987 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2017.01881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2017] [Accepted: 10/11/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) individuals report higher levels of problematic alcohol and substance use than their heterosexual peers. This disparity is linked to the experience of LGB-specific stressors, termed minority stress. Additionally, bisexual individuals show increased rates of psychopathology, including problematic alcohol and substance use, above and beyond lesbian and gay individuals. However, not everyone experiencing minority stress reports increased rates of alcohol and substance misuse. Emotion regulation (ER), which plays a critical role in psychopathology in general, is theorized to modulate the link between minority stress and psychopathology. However, it remains largely unknown whether ER plays a role in linking instances of minority stress with substance and alcohol use outcomes. To address the gap, the current study assessed 305 LGB individuals' instances of minority stress, ER, and substance and alcohol use outcomes. We assessed the role of ER in problematic alcohol and substance use among LGB individuals using moderated mediation, where sexual minority status was entered as the moderator, and ER difficulties was entered as the mediator. The results indicated significant indirect effects of minority stress, through ER difficulties, on both problematic alcohol and substance use. However, there was no significant interaction with sexual orientation status, suggesting that ER may be important for all LGB individuals in predicting problematic alcohol and substance use. These results highlight the important role that ER plays between instances of minority stress and substance and alcohol use in LGB individuals, suggesting that ER skills may serve as a novel target for intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew H Rogers
- Department of Psychology, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States.,Department of Psychology, University of Houston, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Ilana Seager
- Department of Psychology, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Nathaniel Haines
- Department of Psychology, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Hunter Hahn
- Department of Psychology, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Amelia Aldao
- Department of Psychology, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Woo-Young Ahn
- Department of Psychology, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States.,Department of Psychology, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
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116
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Rhew IC, Stappenbeck CA, Bedard-Gilligan M, Hughes T, Kaysen D. Effects of sexual assault on alcohol use and consequences among young adult sexual minority women. J Consult Clin Psychol 2017; 85:424-433. [PMID: 28287804 DOI: 10.1037/ccp0000202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to examine effects of sexual assault victimization on later typical alcohol use and alcohol-related consequences among young sexual minority women (SMW). METHOD Data were collected over 4 annual assessments from a national sample of 1,057 women who identified as lesbian or bisexual and were 18- to 25-years-old at baseline. Marginal structural modeling, an analytic approach that accounts for time-varying confounding through the use of inverse probability weighting, was used to examine effects of sexual assault and its severity (none, moderate, severe) on typical weekly number of drinks consumed and number of alcohol-related consequences 1-year later as well as 2-year cumulative sexual assault severity on alcohol outcomes at 36-month follow-up. RESULTS Findings showed that compared with not experiencing any sexual assault, severe sexual assault at the prior assessment was associated with a 71% higher number of typical weekly drinks (count ratio [CR] = 1.71; 95% confidence interval [CI] [1.27, 2.31]) and 63% higher number of alcohol-related consequences (CR = 1.63; 95% CI [1.21, 2.20]). Effects were attenuated when comparing moderate to no sexual assault; however, the linear trend across sexual assault categories was statistically significant for both outcomes. There were also effects of cumulative levels of sexual assault severity over 2 years on increased typical drinking and alcohol-related consequences at end of follow-up. CONCLUSIONS Sexual assault may be an important cause of alcohol misuse among SMW. These findings further highlight the need for strategies to reduce the risk of sexual assault among SMW. (PsycINFO Database Record
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Affiliation(s)
- Isaac C Rhew
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington
| | | | | | - Tonda Hughes
- College of Nursing, University of Illinois at Chicago
| | - Debra Kaysen
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington
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117
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Balsam KF, Rostosky SS, Riggle EDB. Breaking up is hard to do: Women's experience of dissolving their same-sex relationship. JOURNAL OF LESBIAN STUDIES 2017; 21:30-46. [PMID: 27602487 DOI: 10.1080/10894160.2016.1165561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
While prior research has compared same-sex to heterosexual relationships, very little attention has been paid to the unique experiences of women dissolving same-sex relationships, especially in the context of shifting legal and social policies. The current study examined the experience of 20 women who dissolved their same-sex relationship between 2002 and 2014. Participants were drawn from a longitudinal sample of same-sex and heterosexual couples and were interviewed using a semi-structured protocol. Interviews focused on three primary research questions: reasons for dissolution, emotional reactions, and role of legal status. While reasons for dissolution largely mirrored literature on women in heterosexual relationships, emotional reactions and the role of legal status were both influenced by sexual minority-specific factors related to minority stress and the recent societal changes pertaining to legal relationship recognition. Results are interpreted in a framework of minority stress and the ongoing legacy of institutional discrimination experienced by women in same-sex relationships.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly F Balsam
- a Pacific Graduate School of Psychology, Palo Alto University , Palo Alto , California , USA
| | - Sharon S Rostosky
- b Department of Education , School, and Counseling Psychology, University of Kentucky , Lexington , Kentucky , USA
| | - Ellen D B Riggle
- c Department of Political Science and Gender and Women's Studies Program , University of Kentucky , Lexington , Kentucky , USA
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118
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Lehavot K, Simpson TL, Shipherd JC. Factors Associated with Suicidality Among a National Sample of Transgender Veterans. Suicide Life Threat Behav 2016; 46:507-524. [PMID: 26878597 DOI: 10.1111/sltb.12233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2015] [Accepted: 10/22/2015] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Correlates of past-year suicidal ideation and lifetime suicide risk among a national sample of transgender veterans were examined. An online, convenience sample of 212 U.S. transgender veterans participated in a cross-sectional survey in February-May 2014. We evaluated associations between sociodemographic characteristics, stigma, mental health, and psychosocial resources with past-year suicidal ideation and lifetime suicide plans and attempts. Participants reported high rates of past-year suicidal ideation (57%) as well as history of suicide plan or attempt (66%). Transgender-related felt stigma during military service and current posttraumatic stress disorder and depressive symptoms were associated with suicide outcomes as were economic and demographic factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keren Lehavot
- Health Services Research & Development (HSR&D) Center of Innovation (COIN), VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA, USA. .,Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA, USA. .,Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA. .,Department of Health Services, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
| | - Tracy L Simpson
- Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA, USA.,Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.,Center of Excellence in Substance Abuse and Treatment (CESATE), VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Jillian C Shipherd
- Department of Veterans Affairs, LGBT Program, Washington, DC, USA.,VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA.,Women's Health Sciences Division, National Center for PTSD, Boston, MA, USA.,Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
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119
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Sigurvinsdottir R, Ullman SE. Sexual Orientation, Race, and Trauma as Predictors of Sexual Assault Recovery. JOURNAL OF FAMILY VIOLENCE 2016; 31:913-921. [PMID: 27713597 PMCID: PMC5046826 DOI: 10.1007/s10896-015-9793-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Sexual minorities and racial minorities experience greater negative impact following sexual assault. We examined recovery from sexual assault among women who identified as heterosexual and bisexual across racial groups. A community sample of women (N = 905) completed three yearly surveys about sexual victimization, recovery outcomes, race group, and sexual minority status. Bisexual women and Black women reported greater recovery problems. However, Black women improved more quickly on depression symptoms than non-Black women. Finally, repeated adult victimization uniquely undermined survivors' recovery, even when controlling for child sexual abuse. Sexual minority and race status variables and their intersections with revictimization play roles in recovery and should be considered in treatment protocols for sexual assault survivors.
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120
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Morrison TG, Bishop CJ, Morrison MA, Parker-Taneo K. A Psychometric Review of Measures Assessing Discrimination Against Sexual Minorities. JOURNAL OF HOMOSEXUALITY 2016; 63:1086-1126. [PMID: 26566991 DOI: 10.1080/00918369.2015.1117903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Discrimination against sexual minorities is widespread and has deleterious consequences on victims' psychological and physical wellbeing. However, a review of the psychometric properties of instruments measuring lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) discrimination has not been conducted. The results of this review, which involved evaluating 162 articles, reveal that most have suboptimal psychometric properties. Specifically, myriad scales possess questionable content validity as (1) items are not created in collaboration with sexual minorities; (2) measures possess a small number of items and, thus, may not sufficiently represent the domain of interest; and (3) scales are "adapted" from measures designed to examine race- and gender-based discrimination. Additional limitations include (1) summed scores are computed, often in the absence of scale score reliability metrics; (2) summed scores operate from the questionable assumption that diverse forms of discrimination are necessarily interrelated; (3) the dimensionality of instruments presumed to consist of subscales is seldom tested; (4) tests of criterion-related validity are routinely omitted; and (5) formal tests of measures' construct validity are seldom provided, necessitating that one infer validity based on the results obtained. The absence of "gold standard" measures, the attendant difficulty in formulating a coherent picture of this body of research, and suggestions for psychometric improvements are noted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Todd G Morrison
- a Department of Psychology , University of Saskatchewan , Saskatchewan , Canada
| | - C J Bishop
- a Department of Psychology , University of Saskatchewan , Saskatchewan , Canada
| | - Melanie A Morrison
- a Department of Psychology , University of Saskatchewan , Saskatchewan , Canada
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121
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Burke SE, LaFrance M. Lay Conceptions of Sexual Minority Groups. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2016; 45:635-50. [PMID: 26597649 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-015-0655-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2014] [Revised: 10/22/2015] [Accepted: 10/23/2015] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Bisexual people are often implored to "pick a side," implying that bisexuality is both more controllable and less desirable than heterosexuality or homosexuality. Bisexual people's status as a social group perceived to fall between a traditionally advantaged group and a traditionally disadvantaged group may have the potential to clarify lay conceptions of sexual orientation. We examined participants' views of groups varying in sexual orientation by randomly assigning participants (including heterosexual men and women as well as gay men and lesbian women) from four samples to evaluate heterosexual, bisexual, or homosexual targets (N = 1379). Results provided strong evidence for the previously untested theoretical argument that bisexuality is perceived as less stable than heterosexuality or homosexuality. In addition, participants low in Personal Need for Structure rated female (but not male) bisexuality as relatively stable, suggesting that a preference for simple, binary thinking can partially explain a negative conception of an ostensibly "intermediate" identity. Bisexual targets were perceived as falling between heterosexual and homosexual targets in terms of gender nonconformity, and less decisive, less monogamous, and lacking in positive traits that were associated with homosexual targets. In sum, views of bisexual people were both more negative than and qualitatively different from views of gay men and lesbian women. We discuss the results as an illustration of the complex ways that perceivers' attitudes can differ depending on which target groups they are considering, suggesting that intergroup bias cannot be fully understood without attending to social categories viewed as intermediate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara E Burke
- Department of Psychology, Yale University, 2 Hillhouse Ave., New Haven, CT, 06511, USA.
| | - Marianne LaFrance
- Department of Psychology, Yale University, 2 Hillhouse Ave., New Haven, CT, 06511, USA
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122
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Molina Y, Marquez JH, Logan DE, Leeson CJ, Balsam KF, Kaysen DL. Current intimate relationship status, depression, and alcohol use among bisexual women: The mediating roles of bisexual-specific minority stressors. SEX ROLES 2015; 73:43-57. [PMID: 26456995 PMCID: PMC4594946 DOI: 10.1007/s11199-015-0483-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Current intimate relationship characteristics, including gender and number of partner(s), may affect one's visibility as a bisexual individual and the minority stressors they experience, which may in turn influence their health. The current study tested four hypotheses: 1) minority stressors vary by current intimate relationship status; 2) higher minority stressors are associated with higher depressive symptoms and alcohol-related outcomes; 3) depressive symptoms and alcohol-related outcomes vary by current intimate relationship status; and 4) minority stressors will mediate differences in these outcomes. Participants included 470 self-identified bisexual women (65% Caucasian, mean age: 21) from a sample of sexual minority women recruited from different geographic regions in the United States through advertisements on social networking sites and Craigslist. Participants completed a 45 minute survey. Respondents with single partners were first grouped by partner gender (male partner: n=282; female partner: n=56). Second, women were grouped by partner gender/number (single female/male partner: n = 338; women with multiple female and male partners: n=132). Women with single male partners and women with multiple male and female partners exhibited elevated experienced bi-negativity and differences in outness (H1). Experienced and internalized bi-negativity were associated with health outcomes, but not outness (H2). Differences in outcomes emerged by partner number and partner number/gender (H3); these differences were mediated by experienced bi-negativity (H4). These results suggest that experiences of discrimination may underlie differences in health related to bisexual women's relationship structure and highlight the importance of evaluating women's relational context as well as sexual identification in understanding health risk behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yamile Molina
- University of Washington, Seattle, WA
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA
- University of Illinois-Chicago, Chicago, IL
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123
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Balsam KF, Molina Y, Blayney JA, Dillworth T, Zimmerman L, Kaysen D. Racial/ethnic differences in identity and mental health outcomes among young sexual minority women. CULTURAL DIVERSITY & ETHNIC MINORITY PSYCHOLOGY 2015; 21:380-390. [PMID: 25642782 PMCID: PMC4512644 DOI: 10.1037/a0038680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Previous research suggests that sexual minorities are at greater risk for trauma exposure, mental health problems, and substance use. To date, few studies have examined racial/ethnic differences among sexual minorities in relation to health-related behaviors and outcomes. Furthermore, studies of racial/ethnic differences among young adult sexual minority women (SMW) are virtually nonexistent. The current study adds to the previous literature by exploring differences in trauma exposure, sexual identity, mental health, and substance use in a nonprobability national sample of young adult SMW. A total of 967 self- identified lesbian and bisexual women were recruited via the Internet using social networking sites to participate in a larger longitudinal study on young women's health behaviors. The present study included 730 (76%) White, 108 (10%) African American, 91 (9%) Latina, and 38 (4%) Asian women ages 18 to 25 years. Results revealed differences in socioeconomic variables, degree of outness to family, childhood sexual assault, and forcible rape, but not overall lifetime trauma exposure. Among mental health and health-related behavior variables, few differences between groups emerged. Our findings indicate that both researchers and clinicians should turn their attention to processes of resilience among young SMW, particularly young SMW of color.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Tiara Dillworth
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington
| | - Lindsey Zimmerman
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington
| | - Debra Kaysen
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington
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124
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Rozbroj T, Lyons A, Pitts M, Mitchell A, Christensen H. Improving self-help e-therapy for depression and anxiety among sexual minorities: an analysis of focus groups with lesbians and gay men. J Med Internet Res 2015; 17:e66. [PMID: 25761775 PMCID: PMC4376195 DOI: 10.2196/jmir.4013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2014] [Revised: 12/17/2014] [Accepted: 01/10/2015] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background E-therapies for depression and anxiety rarely account for lesbian and gay users. This is despite lesbians and gay men being at heightened risk of mood disorders and likely to benefit from having access to tailored self-help resources. Objective We sought to determine how e-therapies for depression and anxiety could be improved to address the therapeutic needs of lesbians and gay men. Methods We conducted eight focus groups with lesbians and gay men aged 18 years and older. Focus groups were presented with key modules from the popular e-therapy “MoodGYM”. They were asked to evaluate the inclusiveness and relevance of these modules for lesbians and gay men and to think about ways that e-therapies in general could be modified. The focus groups were analyzed qualitatively using a thematic analysis approach to identify major themes. Results The focus groups indicated that some but not all aspects of MoodGYM were suitable, and suggested ways of improving e-therapies for lesbian and gay users. Suggestions included avoiding language or examples that assumed or implied users were heterosexual, improving inclusiveness by representing non-heterosexual relationships, providing referrals to specialized support services and addressing stigma-related stress, such as “coming out” and experiences of discrimination and harassment. Focus group participants suggested that dedicated e-therapies for lesbians and gay men should be developed or general e-therapies be made more inclusive by using adaptive logic to deliver content appropriate for a user’s sexual identity. Conclusions Findings from this study offer in-depth guidance for developing e-therapies that more effectively address mental health problems among lesbians and gay men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomas Rozbroj
- Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia.
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125
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Zimmerman L, Darnell DA, Rhew IC, Lee CM, Kaysen D. Resilience in community: a social ecological development model for young adult sexual minority women. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF COMMUNITY PSYCHOLOGY 2015; 55:179-90. [PMID: 25572956 PMCID: PMC4381736 DOI: 10.1007/s10464-015-9702-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Family support and rejection are associated with health outcomes among sexual minority women (SMW). We examined a social ecological development model among young adult SMW, testing whether identity risk factors or outness to family interacted with family rejection to predict community connectedness and collective self-esteem. Lesbian and bisexual women (N = 843; 57% bisexual) between the ages of 18-25 (M = 21.4; SD = 2.1) completed baseline and 12-month online surveys. The sample identified as White (54.2%), multiple racial backgrounds (16.6%), African American (9.6%) and Asian/Asian American (3.1%); 10.2% endorsed a Hispanic/Latina ethnicity. Rejection ranged from 18 to 41% across family relationships. Longitudinal regression indicated that when outness to family increased, SMW in highly rejecting families demonstrated resilience by finding connections and esteem in sexual minority communities to a greater extent than did non-rejected peers. But, when stigma concerns, concealment motivation, and other identity risk factors increased over the year, high family rejection did not impact community connectedness and SMW reported lower collective self-esteem. Racial minority SMW reported lower community connectedness, but not lower collective self-esteem. Families likely buffer or exacerbate societal risks for ill health. Findings highlight the protective role of LGBTQ communities and normative resilience among SMW and their families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsey Zimmerman
- National Center for PTSD, Dissemination and Training Division, Veteran Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Menlo Park, CA, 94025, USA,
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126
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Eliason MJ. Chronic Physical Health Problems in Sexual Minority Women: Review of the Literature. LGBT Health 2014; 1:259-68. [PMID: 26789854 DOI: 10.1089/lgbt.2014.0026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Although there is substantial literature about sexual minority women's mental health and use of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs (ATOD), only recently has attention been focused on chronic physical health disorders thought to stem from stress and exposure to ATOD use. The most extensively studied aspect of physical health has been weight, with the majority of studies reporting higher prevalence of overweight and obesity. In addition, many studies report higher levels of stressful experiences in both childhood and adulthood for sexual minority women. In this paper, the hypothesized relationship between stress, unhealthy behaviors, and five common chronic physical health disorders is explored via review of the literature. Only asthma appeared to be consistently more common in sexual minority women, and few or no differences in diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and most cancers were found. The limitations of these studies are reviewed, and the need for studies that directly address the relationships among stress, health-damaging practices, and chronic disorder is emphasized. However, if these findings hold up, and sexual minority women are not more prone to these disorders, the field may need better theoretical frameworks from which to explore potential differences in the manifestation of mental versus chronic physical health disparities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele J Eliason
- Department of Health Education, San Francisco State University , San Francisco, California
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127
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Rozbroj T, Lyons A, Pitts M, Mitchell A, Christensen H. Assessing the applicability of e-therapies for depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders among lesbians and gay men: analysis of 24 web- and mobile phone-based self-help interventions. J Med Internet Res 2014; 16:e166. [PMID: 24996000 PMCID: PMC4115263 DOI: 10.2196/jmir.3529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2014] [Revised: 06/12/2014] [Accepted: 06/12/2014] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Lesbians and gay men have disproportionately high rates of depression and anxiety, and report lower satisfaction with treatments. In part, this may be because many health care options marginalize them by assuming heterosexuality, or misunderstand and fail to respond to the challenges specifically faced by these groups. E-therapies have particular potential to respond to the mental health needs of lesbians and gay men, but there is little research to determine whether they do so, or how they might be improved. Objective We sought to examine the applicability of existing mental health e-therapies for lesbians and gay men. Methods We reviewed 24 Web- and mobile phone-based e-therapies and assessed their performance in eight key areas, including the use of inclusive language and content and whether they addressed mental health stressors for lesbians and gay men, such as experiences of stigma related to their sexual orientation, coming out, and relationship issues that are specific to lesbians and gay men. Results We found that e-therapies seldom addressed these stressors. Furthermore, 58% (14/24) of therapies contained instances that assumed or suggested the user was heterosexual, with instances especially prevalent among better-evidenced programs. Conclusions Our findings, and a detailed review protocol presented in this article, may be used as guides for the future development of mental health e-therapies to better accommodate the needs of lesbians and gay men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomas Rozbroj
- Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society, Faculty of Health Sciences, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia.
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