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O'Shea J, Jenkins R, Nicholls D, Downs J, Hudson LD. Prevalence, severity and risk factors for mental disorders among sexual and gender minority young people: a systematic review of systematic reviews and meta-analyses. Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2024:10.1007/s00787-024-02552-1. [PMID: 39141104 DOI: 10.1007/s00787-024-02552-1] [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: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 08/01/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024]
Abstract
Evidence suggests heightened prevalence and severity of mental disorders among sexual minority (SM) and gender minority (GM) young people. Several risk factors have been associated with these disparities. A systematic review of systematic reviews and meta-analysis was conducted to provide a comprehensive overview of the literature and to determine the field's current position. MEDLINE, PsycInfo, Scopus and Web of Science were searched in March 2022 and updated January 2024. Eligibility criteria were systematic reviews or meta-analyses assessing contemporaneous prevalence, severity and/or risk factors of mental disorders among SM or GM young people aged 25 and under. 42 reviews were included, all of which were low quality. The prevalence of depression among SM was 26% (95% CI 21-32%), and among GM was 46% (95% CI 36-56%). Greater depression severity was found among SM compared to heterosexual young people, with a significant albeit small effect size (Hedges' g = 0.38, 95% CI = 0.25 to 0.50); effect sizes were similar when separating by gender. GM also reported greater symptom severity compared to cisgender young people. Other mental disorders were more prevalent compared to those reported in the general population, and of greater severity compared to heterosexual/cisgender young people. Several proximal and distal risk factors were focused upon within the systematic reviews identified. Past systematic reviews consistently indicate a heightened risk of mental disorders among SM and GM young people. Services need to be aware of these disparities and adapt their care accordingly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan O'Shea
- Population, Policy and Practice Department, Great Ormond Street UCL Institute of Child Health, London, UK. jonathan.o'
| | - Rebecca Jenkins
- Hull York Medical School, University of York, University Road, Heslington, York, UK
| | - Dasha Nicholls
- Division of Psychiatry, Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - James Downs
- Independent Researcher and Expert by Experience, Cardiff, UK
| | - Lee D Hudson
- Population, Policy and Practice Department, Great Ormond Street UCL Institute of Child Health, London, UK
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Watkins NK, Dubar RT. Socio-demographic factors and COVID-19 experiences predict perceived social support and social media engagement among college students in the U.S. JOURNAL OF AMERICAN COLLEGE HEALTH : J OF ACH 2024; 72:1516-1526. [PMID: 35728017 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2022.2082843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Revised: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study examined socio-demographic characteristics and COVID-19 experiences as concurrent predictors of perceived familial and friend social support, social media use, and socio-emotional motives for electronic communication during the COVID-19 pandemic among college students. PARTICIPANTS Participants were 619 emerging adults (18-29-year-olds) currently enrolled at, or recently graduated from, a U.S.-based college or university (Mean age = 21.8, SD = 2.2; 64% female; 60% Non-Hispanic White). METHODS Online surveys were administered between May and June 2020. A path analysis model was conducted to examine the concurrent associations between socio-demographic factors, COVID-19-related experiences, social media/electronic engagement, and perceived social support. RESULTS Findings indicated significant differences in perceived social support, social media use, and socio-emotional motives for electronic communication as a function of gender, race, sexual orientation, first-generation status, and relationship status. CONCLUSIONS Our findings highlight the role of both individual and situational differences in interpersonal functioning and demonstrate how college students differently engaged with social media for socio-emotional purposes during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole K Watkins
- Department of Psychology, Wesleyan University, Middletown, Connecticut, USA
| | - Royette T Dubar
- Department of Psychology, Wesleyan University, Middletown, Connecticut, USA
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O’Kane KMK, Goldberg SY, Bouchard KN, Dawson SJ. Busting MisconSEXions: evaluation of a social media knowledge translation initiative addressing myths about sex. Front Psychol 2024; 15:1347493. [PMID: 39006551 PMCID: PMC11241140 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1347493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
There is a critical gap in sex education such that many people lack access to evidence-based and accessible information about sexuality, putting them at risk for endorsing myths about sex and in turn having poorer sexual wellbeing. To address this gap, we developed a novel social media knowledge translation initiative-MisconSEXions-to debunk common myths about sexuality. The goal of this study was twofold. First, to examine whether exposure to MisconSEXions is effective for reducing sexuality myth endorsement. Second, to evaluate the acceptability (participants' satisfaction with the content), appropriateness (the perceived fit of the content with participants), adoption (participants' intention to engage with the initiative), and penetration (participants' perception of the content's impact on their lives) of MisconSEXions among study participants. We also examined possible group differences in our observed effects by assigned sex, gender modality, and sexual orientation. A large and diverse sample (N = 2,356) of adults completed an online survey and reported on their demographics, sexuality myth endorsement before and after exposure to MisconSEXions content, and the acceptability, appropriateness, adoption, and penetration of the MisconSEXions content. We found that participants' sexuality myth endorsement was significantly lower following exposure to MisconSEXions content, and this effect held across assigned sex, gender modality, and sexual orientation groups. Regardless of participants' assigned sex, gender modality, or sexual orientation, MisconSEXions content was reported to be both acceptable and appropriate to people's lives. Participants reported relatively low levels of adoption, such that they reported reluctance to engage with the content on social media. Additionally, participants reported mixed feelings regarding the impact of the content on their lives (i.e., penetration). Overall, the findings have implications for how sexuality social media knowledge translation initiatives can fill important gaps in providing inclusive and accessible sex education.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiarah M. K. O’Kane
- Department of Psychology, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Simone Y. Goldberg
- Department of Psychology, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Katrina N. Bouchard
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Samantha J. Dawson
- Department of Psychology, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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Charmaraman L, Zhang A, Wang K, Chen B. Sexual Minorities and Loneliness: Exploring Sexuality through Social Media and Gender-Sexuality Alliance (GSA) Supports. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 21:300. [PMID: 38541299 PMCID: PMC10970596 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph21030300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2023] [Revised: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
We examined online and offline social supports for sexual minority adolescents, underscoring the understudied developmental period of early adolescence and the mental outcome of loneliness. Stemming from a larger study in the northeast U.S., 967 youth participants were 26% sexual minority, 53% female, 45% male, and 2% other/nonbinary (mean age = 13.1, SD = 1.52). LGBTQ+ youth reported significantly higher levels of loneliness compared to their heterosexual counterparts. To understand potential sources of social support while exploring their sexual identities, we compared the experiences of LGBTQ+ youth at both ends of the loneliness spectrum. Gaining knowledge about their sexual orientation from LGBTQ+ organization websites, participating in gender-sexuality alliances, and using TikTok or Instagram were associated with lower levels of loneliness. Providing social support to online friends was associated with lower loneliness; however, receiving online support was not associated with lower loneliness. Furthermore, proactive social media engagement such as posting uplifting content, joining online communities, or raising awareness about social issues were associated with lower levels of loneliness. The results provide guidance on specific youth behaviors and online communities beyond a focus on screen time while highlighting the continued need for social support to ameliorate loneliness, such as gender-sexuality alliance networks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Charmaraman
- Youth, Media, & Wellbeing Research Lab, Wellesley Centers for Women, Wellesley College, Wellesley, MA 02481, USA
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Kiekens WJ, Kaufman TML, Baams L, de Lange J, de Looze ME, Stevens GWJM, Bos HMW. A Latent Profile Analysis of Social Support, Online Contacts, and Preference for Online Communication Among Same- and Both-Sex Attracted and Other-Sex Attracted Adolescents. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2024:1-10. [PMID: 38407945 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2024.2319245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
This study aimed to assess differences between other-sex attracted and same- and both-sex attracted adolescents in profiles of peer and family social support, online contacts, and preferences for online communication. Data stem from the 2017 Dutch "Health and Behavior in School-Aged Children" (HBSC) survey (N = 6,823; 4.0% same- and both-sex attracted; M age=14.73, SD = 1.59, range = 12-18). We conducted latent profile analyses to estimate profiles in peer and family social support, online contacts, and preferences for online communication. Then we assessed the association between sexual attraction and profile membership. A five-profile solution fitted the data best. Profiles were characterized as high support, online contact, and average online communication preference (35.6%); high support, low online contact, and weak online communication preference (42.9%); average support, high online contact, and strong online communication preference (9.9%); low support, low online contact, and average online communication preference (6.9%); and low support, average online contact, and average online communication preference (5.0%). Same- and both-sex attracted adolescents had higher odds than other-sex attracted adolescents of being in the latter three profiles than in the first profile. Thus, same- and both-sex attracted adolescents were more likely to report average to low rates of peer and family social support, high to low frequency of online contact, and an average to strong preference for online communication than other-sex attracted adolescents. The average to low levels of support especially influenced these sexual orientation-based differences in profile membership.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wouter J Kiekens
- Department of Sociology/Interuniversity Center for Social Science Theory and Methodology (ICS), University of Groningen
| | | | - Laura Baams
- Department of Pedagogy and Educational Sciences, University of Groningen
| | - Jennifer de Lange
- Department of Pedagogy and Educational Sciences, University of Groningen
| | | | | | - H M W Bos
- Department of Child Development and Education, University of Amsterdam
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Wedell E, Bettergarcia JN, Thomson BR, Shrewsbury AM. Age Moderates the Association of Community Connectedness and Psychological Distress Among LGBTQ+ Youth and Adults. JOURNAL OF HOMOSEXUALITY 2024; 71:722-740. [PMID: 36228152 DOI: 10.1080/00918369.2022.2132573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
High levels of psychological distress present a major public health issue among LGBTQ+ youth and adults; however, research has repeatedly identified community connectedness as an important protective factor for mental health in LGBTQ+ populations. The aim of the present study was to examine whether age moderates the association of community connectedness on psychological distress in a community sample of LGBTQ+ people. In the present exploratory study, we analyzed secondary cross-sectional data from a sample of LGBTQ+ youth and adults (n = 292) in a semi-rural community in the Western United States. Participants completed a measure of community connectedness, the K6, and the PHQ-4. The results of two moderation models showed that the negative association of community connectedness on psychological distress was strongest among youth, weaker among young adults, and nonsignificant among older middle-aged adults and older adults. These results provide further evidence for the potential buffering role of community connectedness on psychological distress for LGBTQ+ youth and young adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Wedell
- Department of Psychological Sciences, William & Mary, Williamsburg, Virginia, USA
| | - Jay N Bettergarcia
- Department of Psychology and Child Development, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, California, USA
| | - Bonnie Rose Thomson
- Department of Psychology, State University of New York, Brockport, New York, USA
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Marciano A, David Y, Antebi-Gruszka N. Facebook use and body dissatisfaction moderate the association between discrimination and suicidality among LGBQ individuals. COMPUTERS IN HUMAN BEHAVIOR 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.chb.2023.107729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/06/2023]
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Chan RC. Benefits and risks of LGBT social media use for sexual and gender minority individuals: An investigation of psychosocial mechanisms of LGBT social media use and well-being. COMPUTERS IN HUMAN BEHAVIOR 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.chb.2022.107531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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Leung T, Coulter RWS, Friedman MR, Thoma B, Switzer GE, Martina J, Egan JE, Primack B. The Influence of Social Media Interactions and Behaviors on Depressive Symptoms Among Sexual and Gender Minority Young Adults in the United States: Protocol for a Mixed Methods Longitudinal Study. JMIR Res Protoc 2023; 12:e43627. [PMID: 36692929 PMCID: PMC9906309 DOI: 10.2196/43627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Revised: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sexual and gender minority (SGM; ie, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and otherwise queer) young adults experience disparities in depression and other internalizing psychopathology. Although social media use is widespread and SGM people have more social media accounts and are more socially active on them than non-SGM individuals, few studies have examined the impact of social media on depression in this group. OBJECTIVE The PRIDE iM study will be the first longitudinal, mixed methods research conducted to determine the impact of social media interactions and behaviors as pathways to depressive symptoms among SGM young adults living in the United States. METHODS PRIDE iM uses a bookends variation of the longitudinal sequential mixed methods design. Participants will be recruited nationally from social media. First, between July 2019 and February 2020, we conducted a qualitative phase (T1) comprising web-based individual interviews (N=58) to inform the building and content of the quantitative survey. Second, from February 2022 to September 2022, we will conduct a series of web-based surveys (N=1000 at baseline) with 4 data points (T2-T5), each one collected every 6 to 8 weeks. Third, from October 2022 to December 2022, we will conduct a second qualitative phase (T6) of web-based interviews using outcome trajectories found in the longitudinal survey analyses to purposively sample survey participants and conduct web-based interviews to contextualize and explain survey findings. Qualitative data from T1 and T6 will be analyzed using a reflexive thematic analysis approach. As we sought to capture change over time in the association between the main predictors (ie, social media interactions and behaviors) and depressive symptoms, we propose analyzing T2 to T5 data using latent growth models with a structural equation modeling framework. Data integration at the method, interpretation, and reporting levels will be achieved through building and connecting and the use of a staged approach and joint displays, respectively. At all stages, we will assess the fit of data integration as recommended by the principles of best practice for mixed methods research in psychology. RESULTS Data collection will be completed by December 2022. Qualitative data analyses will be completed by March 2023, and quantitative analyses of the primary outcome of interest will be completed by June 2023. CONCLUSIONS PRIDE iM will confirm, reject, or uncover the presence of potential relationships between social media interactions and behaviors and depressive symptoms among SGM people. This study represents fundamental groundwork to develop social media-based interventions that target modifiable interactions and behaviors that are most likely to influence mental health outcomes, thus seizing the opportunity to merge the popularity of this medium among SGM people with evidence-based approaches. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/43627.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Robert W S Coulter
- Department of Behavioral and Community Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - M Reuel Friedman
- Department of Urban-Global Public Health, School of Public Health, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, United States
| | - Brian Thoma
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Galen E Switzer
- Division of General Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Jamie Martina
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Pittburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - James Erin Egan
- Department of Behavioral and Community Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Brian Primack
- Department of Health Promotion and Health Behavior, College of Public Health and Human Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvalis, OR, United States
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Yao X, Zhao YC, Song S, Wang X. Beyond disclosure: the role of self-identity and context collapse in privacy management on identified social media for LGBTQ+ people. JOURNAL OF DOCUMENTATION 2022. [DOI: 10.1108/jd-04-2022-0080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
PurposeWhile anonymous online interactions could be helpful and less risky, they are usually not enough for LGBTQ+ people to satisfy the need of expressing their marginalized identity to networks of known ties (i.e. on identified social media like Facebook, WeChat, and TikTok). However, identified social media bring LGBTQ+ people both sources and challenges like “context collapse” that flattens diverse networks or audiences that are originally separated. Previous studies focus on LGBTQ+ people's disclosure and responses to context collapse, few studies investigate how their perceptions of context collapse are shaped and their privacy management beyond regulating disclosure on social media. Drawing on identity theory and communication privacy management (CPM), this study aims to investigate how the need of LGBTQ+ people for self-identity affects their perceived context collapse and results in privacy management on identified social media.Design/methodology/approachGiven the target population is LGBTQ+ people, The authors recruited participants through active LGBTQ+ online communities, influential LGBTQ+ activists, and the snowballing sampling. The authors empirically examined the proposed model using the PLS-SEM technique with a valid sample of 232 respondents concerning their identity practices and privacy management on WeChat, a typical and popular identified social media in China.FindingsThe results suggested that the need for expressing the self and the need for maintaining continuity of self-identity have significant influences on perceived context collapse, but vary in directions. The perceived context collapse will motivate LGBTQ+ individuals to engage in privacy management to readjust rules on ownership, access, and extension. However, only ownership management helps them regain the perceived privacy control on social media.Originality/valueThis study incorporated and highlighted the influence of LGBTQ+ identity in shaping context collapse and online privacy management. This study contributes to the literature on privacy and information communication and yields practical implications, especially on improving privacy-related interactive design for identified social media services.
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Escobar-Viera CG, Choukas-Bradley S, Sidani J, Maheux AJ, Roberts SR, Rollman BL. Examining Social Media Experiences and Attitudes Toward Technology-Based Interventions for Reducing Social Isolation Among LGBTQ Youth Living in Rural United States: An Online Qualitative Study. Front Digit Health 2022; 4:900695. [PMID: 35832658 PMCID: PMC9271672 DOI: 10.3389/fdgth.2022.900695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
PurposeLesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) youth living in rural areas who feel isolated are at high risk of depression and suicidality. Given the lack of support in their offline communities, many rural-living LGBTQ youth turn to social media for social support. In this qualitative study, we examined rural LGBTQ youth's social media experiences and attitudes toward technology-based interventions for reducing perceived isolation.MethodIn Spring 2020, we conducted online interviews with LGBTQ youth aged 14-19, living in rural areas of the United States, who screened positive for perceived social isolation (n = 20; 11 cisgender sexual minority, 9 transgender). Interviews examined (1) supportive social media experiences, (2) personal strategies to improve social media experiences, and (3) perspective on potential digital intervention delivery modalities. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis.FindingsRelated to supportive content and interactions, themes included (1) positive representation of and connecting with LGBTQ groups on social media are important; (2) content from people with shared experience feels supportive, and (3) lack of feedback to one's experiences is isolating. Regarding personal strategies to improve social media experiences, themes were (1) selecting platforms to connect with different audiences helps make for a more enjoyable social media experience, and (2) several social media platform features can help make for a safer social media experience. Youth discussed advantages and disadvantages of intervention delivery via a mobile app, social media pages or groups, conversational agents (chatbots), and a dedicated website.ConclusionViewing positive representation of and connecting with LGBTQ groups, content from people shared experiences, and utilizing a wide array of platform features to increase the likelihood of positive connections are key to a positive social media experience among this group. Combining delivery modalities is key to engaging rural-living LGBTQ youth in digitally delivered support interventions to reduce perceived isolation. Our results inform future intervention research and conversations about social determinants of health between providers and rural LGBTQ patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- César G. Escobar-Viera
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
- Center for Enhancing Treatment and Utilization for Depression and Emergent Suicidality (ETUDES), School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
- Center for Behavioral Health, Media, and Technology, Division of General Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
- *Correspondence: César G. Escobar-Viera
| | | | - Jaime Sidani
- Department of Behavioral and Community Health Sciences, Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Anne J. Maheux
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, United States
| | - Savannah R. Roberts
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, United States
| | - Bruce L. Rollman
- Center for Enhancing Treatment and Utilization for Depression and Emergent Suicidality (ETUDES), School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
- Center for Behavioral Health, Media, and Technology, Division of General Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
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Berger MN, Taba M, Marino JL, Lim MSC, Skinner SR. Social media use and health and wellbeing of LGBTQ youth: A systematic review (Preprint). J Med Internet Res 2022; 24:e38449. [PMID: 36129741 PMCID: PMC9536523 DOI: 10.2196/38449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2022] [Revised: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) individuals are at higher risk of poor mental health and well-being. Social media platforms can provide LGBTQ youths with a space that counters heteronormative environments and potentially supports mental health and well-being. Mental health includes an individual’s state of psychological and emotional well-being and not merely the absence of mental disorders. Objective We sought to identify how LGBTQ youths and adolescents use social media for connection with other LGBTQ peers and groups, identity development, and social support and how these affect mental health and well-being. Methods PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) procedures were used to guide this review. Searches were conducted in ACM Digital Library, CINAHL, Ovid Embase, Ovid MEDLINE, and Web of Science in March 2021. This review focused on LGBTQ youths aged 10 to 24 years. Included peer-reviewed studies must comprise social media; explore peer connection, identity development, or social support; and be published from 2012 onward. In total, 2 researchers extracted data and performed quality assessments independently using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale for quantitative articles and the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme for qualitative articles. Qualitative synthesis was performed on articles that satisfied the eligibility criteria. Results A total of 26 studies (n=15, 58% qualitative; n=8, 31% quantitative; n=3, 12% mixed methods) met the inclusion criteria. Of the 8 quantitative studies, 6 (75%) were cross-sectional, and 2 (25%) were cohort studies. All studies ranged from moderate to high quality. Social media was a popular tool used by LGBTQ youths to connect with LGBTQ communities. In qualitative data, we found that LGBTQ youths negotiated and explored identity and obtained support from peers on social media. Instagram, Tumblr, and Twitter were commonly used to access LGBTQ content owing to ease of anonymity. Identity management was the most studied social media affordance, important to LGBTQ youths for strategic disclosure. Key strategies for managing identities included being anonymous, censoring locations or content, restricting audiences, and using multiple accounts. Quantitative studies (3/8, 38%) showed that social media was associated with reduced mental health concerns and increased well-being among LGBTQ youths. Mental health concerns arising from social media use were attributed to discrimination, victimization, and policies that did not accommodate changed identities. Conclusions We found that social media may support the mental health and well-being of LGBTQ youths through peer connection, identity management, and social support, but findings were limited by weaknesses in the evidence. More robust and longitudinal studies are needed to determine the relationship between social media use and LGBTQ mental health, particularly among adolescents. The findings may inform interventions to promote social media health literacy and the mental health and well-being of this vulnerable group. Trial Registration PROSPERO CRD42020222535; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=222535
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew N Berger
- Specialty of Child and Adolescent Health, The Children's Hospital at Westmead Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Westmead, Australia
- Centre for Population Health, Western Sydney Public Health Unit, North Parramatta, Australia
| | - Melody Taba
- Specialty of Child and Adolescent Health, The Children's Hospital at Westmead Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Westmead, Australia
| | - Jennifer L Marino
- Specialty of Child and Adolescent Health, The Children's Hospital at Westmead Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Westmead, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
- Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, Australia
- Centre for Adolescent Health, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
- Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Megan S C Lim
- Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - S Rachel Skinner
- Specialty of Child and Adolescent Health, The Children's Hospital at Westmead Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Westmead, Australia
- Kids Research, Children's Hospital Westmead, Sydney Children's Hospitals Network, Westmead, Australia
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Exploring member’s knowledge sharing intention in online health communities: The effects of social support and overload. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0265628. [PMID: 35324932 PMCID: PMC8947075 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0265628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
This study explores the determinants of members’ participation intention in online health communities (OHC) from both the facilitators and barriers points of view. From the facilitators perspective, each member’s subjective well-being plays a crucial role in sharing intention. On the other hand, from the barriers point of view, social network site exhaustion would negatively affect. The survey was conducted on two online support groups, including parents of children with autism spectrum disorder and caregivers of dementia disease. This study collected 330 questionnaires from social network sites to examine the research model. The results showed that social support positively affects members’ self-efficacy; in turn, self-efficacy has a positive effect on subjective well-being. Overload has an impact on psychological distress. Moreover, members’ subjective well-being determined their knowledge sharing intention.
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Protective Factors for LGBTI+ Youth Wellbeing: A Scoping Review Underpinned by Recognition Theory. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph182111682. [PMID: 34770199 PMCID: PMC8583439 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182111682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Considerable research has been undertaken regarding the mental health inequalities experienced by lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI+) youth as a consequence of societal and individual prejudice, stigma and discrimination. Far less research has focussed on protective factors that promote wellbeing for this population. A scoping review was conducted using a six-stage methodological framework, and is reported in accordance with the PRISMA-ScR statement. This explored the extent, range and nature of the peer-reviewed, published, academic literature on what is known about the protective factors that promote LGBTI+ youth wellbeing. Six databases were systematically searched applying Population–Concept–Context key inclusion criteria, complemented by contact with authors to identify additional sources, reference checks and hand searches. Ninety-six individual research records were identified and analysed, drawing from Honneth’s Recognition Theory. Interpersonal relations with parents (n = 40), peers (n = 32) and providers (n = 22) were associated with indicators of enhanced wellbeing, as were LGBTI+ community relations (n = 32). Importantly, online (n = 10), faith (n = 10) and cultural (n = 5) communities were potentially protective. Content and thematic analysis highlighted the importance of Gay–Straight Alliances (GSAs) (n = 23) offering powerful protective opportunities through intersecting interpersonal, community and legal forms of recognition. GSAs enhance allyship by peers and providers (n = 21), facilitate access to LGBTI+ community networks (n = 11) and co-exist alongside inclusive policies (n = 12), curricular (n = 5) and extracurricular activities (n = 1). This scoping review underscores the need to move beyond the predominant focus on risk factors for LGBTI+ youth, which subsequently inform protectionist approaches. It concludes with an appeal to develop mechanisms to apply recognitive justice to policy, practice and, importantly, future research directions. This emphasises the salience of enhanced understandings of inclusion, which is rights-based, universally available and of potential benefit to all.
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Berger MN, Taba M, Marino JL, Lim MSC, Cooper SC, Lewis L, Albury K, Chung KSK, Bateson D, Skinner SR. Social media's role in support networks among LGBTQ adolescents: a qualitative study. Sex Health 2021; 18:421-431. [PMID: 34706814 DOI: 10.1071/sh21110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Background Adolescents use social media more frequently than other age groups. Social media has been described as a safe environment for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer and/or questioning (LGBTQ) adolescents. As part of mixed-methods research investigating the association between social networks and sexual agency, we present qualitative findings on how LGBTQ adolescents connect online to form support networks. Methods We recruited 30 adolescents aged 14-17years who identified as LGBTQ in terms of their gender or attraction in the longitudinal Social Networks and Agency Project. Semi-structured interviews were conducted online or face-to-face across Australia. Thematic analysis was used to explore perceptions and experiences of participants in relation to social media use and relationships. Results Two overarching themes were identified: LGBTQ adolescents use social media for identity, relationships and wellbeing support. Social media is not always free of discrimination for LGBTQ adolescents. Many LGBTQ participants joined Facebook groups to connect with LGBTQ peers. Facebook was considered a vital support for those with mental health concerns including suicidal ideation. Participants gave and received support from group members, which was considered useful for those feeling isolated or victimised. LGBTQ adolescents formed friendships, romantic relationships and gained information on sex, relationships, and sexual health from these groups. Participants described negative experiences including discrimination within Facebook groups, mismanaged groups and exposure to anti-LGBTQ sentiments. Conclusion Social media is an environment where LGBTQ adolescents can connect, educate and support each other, which may have beneficial effects for this marginalised group. There remain issues with social media including discrimination against and within LGBTQ communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew N Berger
- Speciality of Child and Adolescent Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Melody Taba
- Speciality of Child and Adolescent Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Jennifer L Marino
- University of Melbourne, Parkville, Vic., Australia; and Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Vic., Australia; and Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, Vic., Australia
| | - Megan S C Lim
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Vic., Australia; and Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Vic., Australia; and Monash University, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - Spring Chenoa Cooper
- Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, City University of New York, New York, NY, USA
| | - Larissa Lewis
- Speciality of Child and Adolescent Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia; and The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Kath Albury
- Media and Communication, Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, Vic., Australia
| | - Kon Shing Kenneth Chung
- School of Project Management, Faculty of Engineering, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Deborah Bateson
- Family Planning NSW, Ashfield, NSW, Australia; and Discipline of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Neonatology, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - S Rachel Skinner
- Speciality of Child and Adolescent Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Charmaraman L, Hodes R, Richer AM. Young Sexual Minority Adolescent Experiences of Self-expression and Isolation on Social Media: Cross-sectional Survey Study. JMIR Ment Health 2021; 8:e26207. [PMID: 34524107 PMCID: PMC8482247 DOI: 10.2196/26207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Revised: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Early adolescent years are marked by pervasive self- and peer-regulation regarding gender and sexuality norms, which can affect the mental well-being of sexual minority youth. During this developmental period, social media use is also emerging as a dominant mode of communication with peers, allowing for both risk and resilient behaviors that can impact well-being. OBJECTIVE This exploratory study aims to examine how sexual minorities in middle school use social media, who they are connected to and for what purposes, and the associations between these behaviors and mental well-being compared with their heterosexual peers. METHODS In our cross-sectional survey study of 1033 early adolescents aged between 10 and 16 years (average age 12.7, SD 1.21 years) from 4 middle school sites in the Northeastern United States, we conducted an exploratory study comparing sexual minorities (212/873, 24.3% of sample with known sexual orientation) with their heterosexual peers (n=661), obtaining an 84.46% (1033/1223; total possible) response rate. RESULTS Sexual minorities reported having smaller networks on their favorite social media website (β=-.57; P<.001), less often responded positively when friends shared good news (β=-.35; P=.002), and less often tried to make friends feel better when they shared bad news (β=-.30; P=.01). However, sexual minorities more often reported joining a group or web-based community to make themselves feel less alone (β=.28; P=.003), unlike heterosexual youth. Sexual minorities had higher averages of loneliness and social isolation (β=.19; P<.001) than heterosexual students. Sexual minorities were also twice as likely to have tried to harm themselves in the past (β=.81; odds ratio [OR] 2.24, 95% CI 1.64-3.06; P<.001) and were more likely to have symptoms that reached the Center for Epidemiological Studies-Depression definition of depression (β=.15; OR 1.16, 95% CI 1.08-1.25; P<.001). About 39.1% (83/212) of sexual minorities had no one to talk to about their sexual orientation. Sexual minorities were 1.5 times more likely to have joined a social media website their parents would disapprove (β=.41; OR 1.50, 95% CI 1.14-1.97; P=.004) and more likely to report seeing videos related to self-harm (β=.33; OR 1.39, 95% CI 1.06-1.83; P=.02) on the web than heterosexual youth. CONCLUSIONS Given previous reports of supportive and safe web-based spaces for sexual minority youth, our findings demonstrated that sexual minority youth prefer to maintain small, close-knit web-based communities (apart from their families) to express themselves, particularly when reaching out to web-based communities to reduce loneliness. Future longitudinal studies could determine any bidirectional influences of mental well-being and social media use in sexual minorities during this difficult developmental period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Charmaraman
- Wellesley Centers for Women, Wellesley College, Wellesley, MA, United States
| | - Rachel Hodes
- Wellesley Centers for Women, Wellesley College, Wellesley, MA, United States
| | - Amanda M Richer
- Wellesley Centers for Women, Wellesley College, Wellesley, MA, United States
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Trujillo MA, Mendes WB. An ignored minority status: Consequences for sexual minorities living in a biased society. SOCIAL AND PERSONALITY PSYCHOLOGY COMPASS 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/spc3.12638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Michael A. Trujillo
- Department of Psychiatry University of California, San Francisco San Francisco California USA
| | - Wendy Berry Mendes
- Department of Psychiatry University of California, San Francisco San Francisco California USA
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Al-Rawi A, Grepin K, Li X, Morgan R, Wenham C, Smith J. Investigating Public Discourses Around Gender and COVID-19: a Social Media Analysis of Twitter Data. JOURNAL OF HEALTHCARE INFORMATICS RESEARCH 2021; 5:249-269. [PMID: 34258510 PMCID: PMC8266166 DOI: 10.1007/s41666-021-00102-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Revised: 05/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
We collected over 50 million tweets referencing COVID-19 to understand the public’s gendered discourses and concerns during the pandemic. We filtered the tweets based on English language and among three gender categories: men, women, and sexual and gender minorities. We used a mixed-method approach that included topic modelling, sentiment analysis, and text mining extraction procedures including words’ mapping, proximity plots, top hashtags and mentions, and most retweeted posts. Our findings show stark differences among the different genders. In relation to women, we found a salient discussion on the risks of domestic violence due to the lockdown especially towards women and girls, while emphasizing financial challenges. The public discourses around SGM mostly revolved around blood donation concerns, which is a reminder of the discrimination against some of these communities during the early days of the HIV/AIDS epidemic. Finally, the discourses around men were focused on the high death rates and the sentiment analysis results showed more negative tweets than among the other genders. The study concludes that Twitter influencers can drive major online discussions which can be useful in addressing communication needs during pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Al-Rawi
- School of Communication, Simon Fraser University, Schrum Science Centre-K 9653, Burnaby, BC V5A 1S6 Canada
| | - Karen Grepin
- School of Public Health, Hong Kong University, Pok Fu Lam, Hong Kong
| | - Xiaosu Li
- School of Communication, Simon Fraser University, Schrum Science Centre-K 9653, Burnaby, BC V5A 1S6 Canada
| | - Rosemary Morgan
- Bloomberg School of Public Health, John Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD USA
| | - Clare Wenham
- Department of Health Policy, London School of Economics, London, UK
| | - Julia Smith
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Schrum Science Centre-K 9653, Burnaby, BC V5A 1S6 Canada
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19
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Abstract
The odds ratio (OR) for gender differences in major depression is 1.95, averaged meta-analytically over all ages and nations. The gender difference appears by age 12, OR = 2.37, and peaks at OR = 3.02 for ages 13-15. Using the ABC (affective, biological, cognitive) model as a framework within a vulnerability-stress approach, we consider the evidence for biological vulnerabilities (genes, pubertal hormones, and pubertal timing), affective vulnerabilities (temperament), and cognitive vulnerabilities (negative cognitive style, objectified body consciousness, and rumination). The impact of stress is central to the vulnerability-stress model, and we review evidence on gender differences in stress exposure, emphasizing gender differences in sex-related traumas such as child sexual abuse and rape. Finally, we examine sociocultural factors that may contribute to the gender difference, including the media and gender inequality. An implication for research methods is that single-gender designs should be questioned. Regarding clinical implications, the vulnerabilities and stressors identified in this review should contribute to personalized interventions with depressed individuals, especially depressed women.
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Abstract
Adolescents spend much of their daily lives online, and fears abound that digital technology use, and social media in particular, is harming their social and emotional development. Findings to date do not support causal or robust associations between social media use and adolescents’ development. Instead, prior studies have produced a mix of small positive, negative, and often null associations. The narrative around social media and adolescent development has been negative, but empirical support for the story of increasing deficits, disease, and disconnection is limited. This article reviews what is known about the association between social media use and adolescent social and emotional well-being, identifies key limitations in current research, and recommends ways to improve science while also minimizing risk and creating opportunities for positive development in an increasingly digital and uncertain age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Candice L. Odgers
- Department of Psychological Science, University of California, Irvine, California 92697, USA
| | - Stephen M. Schueller
- Department of Psychological Science, University of California, Irvine, California 92697, USA
| | - Mimi Ito
- Donald Bren School of Information and Computer Sciences, University of California, Irvine, California 92697, USA
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21
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Escobar-Viera CG, Shensa A, Sidani J, Primack B, Marshal MP. Association Between LGB Sexual Orientation and Depression Mediated by Negative Social Media Experiences: National Survey Study of US Young Adults. JMIR Ment Health 2020; 7:e23520. [PMID: 33270041 PMCID: PMC7746493 DOI: 10.2196/23520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2020] [Revised: 10/19/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) persons are disproportionately affected by depression and have high social media use rates. Negative social media experiences may modify depressive symptoms among LGB persons. We sought to assess the potential influence of negative social media experiences on the association between LGB orientation and depression. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to assess the potential influence of negative social media experiences on the association between LGB orientation and depression. METHODS We performed a web-based survey of a national sample of US young adults aged 18-30 years. We assessed the respondents' LGB orientation, negative social media experiences, and depression using the 9-item Patient Health Questionnaire. We used generalized structural equation modeling to assess both the direct and indirect effects (via negative social media experiences) of LGB orientation on depression while controlling for relevant demographic and personal characteristics. RESULTS We found a conditional indirect effect (ab path) of LGB orientation on depressive symptoms via negative social media experience (a: observed coefficient 0.229; P<.001; bias-corrected bootstrapped 95% CI 0.162-0.319, and b: observed coefficient 2.158; P<.001; bias-corrected bootstrapped 95% CI 1.840-2.494). The results show that among LGB respondents, for those who reported negative social media experiences in the past year, a 1 unit increase in these experiences was associated with a 0.494 unit increase in depressive symptomatology. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that higher rates of depression among LGB young adults are partially explained by negative social media experiences; these results could help inform future patient/provider conversations about mental health risk and protective factors related to social media use. Reducing these experiences and increasing positive social media experiences among LGB persons may mitigate depressive symptomatology in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- César G Escobar-Viera
- Center for Research on Behavioral Health, Media, and Technology, Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Ariel Shensa
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Jaime Sidani
- Center for Research on Behavioral Health, Media, and Technology, Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Brian Primack
- College of Education and Health Professions, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR, United States
| | - Michael P Marshal
- Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
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22
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Kirchner S, Till B, Plöderl M, Niederkrotenthaler T. Perceptions of LGBQ+ youth and experts of suicide prevention video messages targeting LGBQ+ youth: qualitative study. BMC Public Health 2020; 20:1845. [PMID: 33267858 PMCID: PMC7709299 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-020-09853-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Accepted: 11/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Young lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer as well as other sexual/gender minorities (LGBTQ+) persons have higher rates of suicidal ideation and behavior compared to their non-LGBTQ+ peers, particularly during their coming out. The “It Gets Better” project is a multi-national media campaign that aims to reduce suicide among LGBTQ+ adolescents by providing personal narratives of hope delivered by mainly adult LGBTQ+ persons. There is only little knowledge so far on how young LGBTQ+ people as well as experts in suicide prevention and counseling perceive these videos, and how to potentially improve the videos based on their perceptions. Methods A total of n = 19 LGBQ+ adolescents and young adults and n = 9 experts participated in focus groups to discuss perceptions of a selection of “It Gets Better” videos. Eight focus groups were conducted to assess perceptions on the process of watching the videos, possible effects on young LGBQ+ viewers in general, and suicidal LGBQ+ youth in particular, as well as factors that were relevant to their perceptions. Results Messages were found to be helpful in terms of promoting hope. LGBQ+ youth identified several key strategies to increase identification with messages, which they considered crucial for their effectiveness. Criticism emerged from a perceived lack of diversity in terms of portrayed sexual identities, and some shallowness in the portrayal of suicidal ideation and how things can get better. The experts’ perceptions of the videos were largely consistent with LGBQ+ youth, highlighting a positive potential of videos to support coming out and identity building processes. Conclusions Young people and experts view the videos as helpful and relevant, but identified several strategies to better tailor them to the needs of LGBTQ+ adolescents, including suicidal peers. The insights gained are useful to the increasing number of suicide prevention projects using personal narratives of coping delivered via media to help prevent suicide. Supplementary Information Supplementary information accompanies this paper at 10.1186/s12889-020-09853-5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefanie Kirchner
- Department for Social and Preventive Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Center for Public Health, Unit Suicide Research & Mental Health Promotion, Kinderspitalgasse 15/1, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Benedikt Till
- Department for Social and Preventive Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Center for Public Health, Unit Suicide Research & Mental Health Promotion, Kinderspitalgasse 15/1, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Martin Plöderl
- Department for Crisis Intervention and Suicide Prevention, Christian Doppler Clinic, Paracelsus Medical University, Ignaz-Harrer-Straße 79, 5020, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Thomas Niederkrotenthaler
- Department for Social and Preventive Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Center for Public Health, Unit Suicide Research & Mental Health Promotion, Kinderspitalgasse 15/1, 1090, Vienna, Austria.
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Chao CM, Kao KY, Yu TK. Reactions to Problematic Internet Use Among Adolescents: Inappropriate Physical and Mental Health Perspectives. Front Psychol 2020; 11:1782. [PMID: 32849054 PMCID: PMC7411128 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.01782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Accepted: 06/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Although numerous studies have examined the factors influencing problematic Internet use (PIU), few studies have investigated the interactions between inappropriate physical and mental health (e.g., cyberbullying, Internet pornography, and Internet fraud) as factors facilitating PIU and examined the moderating effect of community bond. Thus, this study analyzed the moderating role of community bond in the relationship between cyberbullying, Internet pornography, Internet fraud, and PIU. Using a cross-sectional survey, adolescents were surveyed through self-report questionnaires. A total of 5,211 responses were received from participant students at 60 senior high schools in Taiwan. Statistical analyses were performed using structural equation modeling. The results indicated that cyberbullying, Internet pornography, Internet fraud, and community bond have significant positive effects on PIU. Community bond has a significant moderating effect in the relationship between cyberbullying, Internet fraud, and the PIU of adolescents. Parental Internet attitude and behavior were found to significantly moderate the relationship between inappropriate physical and mental health, community bond, and PIU. The results suggest that public health and education policies should focus more on adolescents who require additional assistance. Furthermore, school policies could be more informed in regard to relevant psychosocial variables and patterns of Internet use. Finally, this study may serve as a reference for parents, schools, and government education authorities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng-Min Chao
- Department of Business Administration, National Taichung University of Science and Technology, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Kai-Yun Kao
- Department of Business Administration, Hwa Hsia University of Technology, New Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Tai-Kuei Yu
- Department of Business Administration, National Quemoy University, Jinning, Taiwan
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The Relationship between the Use of Social Networking Sites and Sexually Explicit Material, the Internalization of Appearance Ideals and Body Self-Surveillance: Results from a Longitudinal Study of Male Adolescents. J Youth Adolesc 2019; 49:383-398. [PMID: 31802316 DOI: 10.1007/s10964-019-01172-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2019] [Accepted: 11/12/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Although there is now a substantial body of research suggesting a positive association between the exposure to sexualized content in the media and self-objectification/body surveillance, most of the studies have been cross-sectional, conducted in exclusively female samples, focused on the use of traditional media (e.g., printed magazines and TV), and have not assessed the role of the internalization of appearance ideals, which is potentially an important intervening variable in the relationship between media exposure and outcomes related to body concerns. Addressing the need for further assessments of self-objectification in more diverse samples, this study used five-wave longitudinal data to investigate the parallel changes in the use of social networking sites and sexually explicit material and the internalization of appearance ideals and body surveillance in Croatian adolescent men (Mage at baseline = 15.9, SD = 0.54; n= 743). Over a period of 22 months during the transition from middle to late adolescence, both the internalization of appearance ideals and body surveillance decreased. Furthermore, although the internalization of appearance ideals and body surveillance were associated both at baseline and over time, this study's results did not indicate a longitudinal relationship between respectively the use of online social networking sites and sexually explicit material and either the internalization of appearance ideals or body surveillance among adolescent males. Overall, this study's findings highlight the potential for a more specific assessment of the role of the use of social networking sites and sexually explicit material in self-objectification and body surveillance among young men. Future research may benefit from exploring the relationship between young men's modes of engagement with and motives for the use of social networking sites and body surveillance, as well as the possible association between the use of sexually explicit material and competency-based self-objectification, in particular sexual body functionality.
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25
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Escobar-Viera C, Shensa A, Hamm M, Melcher EM, Rzewnicki DI, Egan JE, Sidani JE, Primack BA. "I Don't Feel Like the Odd One": Utilizing Content Analysis to Compare the Effects of Social Media Use on Well-Being Among Sexual Minority and Nonminority US Young Adults. Am J Health Promot 2019; 34:285-293. [PMID: 31698919 DOI: 10.1177/0890117119885517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Although there is evidence of associations between social media (SM) use and mental well-being among the general population, these associations among lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) persons are poorly understood. This study compared the influence of SM experiences on mental well-being between LGB and non-LGB persons. DESIGN AND SETTING Online cross-sectional survey. PARTICIPANTS National sample of 2408 US adults aged 18 to 30 years. METHOD We asked participants to provide examples of when SM affected their well-being separately in good and bad ways. We coded, summed, and used rate ratios (RRs) to compare responses of LGB and non-LGB individuals. Thematically similar codes were described and grouped into categories. RESULTS Most responses described positive SM effects. However, of 6 codes that were significantly more frequent among LGB respondents, only social capital (RR = 1.58, 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.17-2.12) described a positive effect. Five codes described negative effects of SM for LGB users: negative emotional contagion (RR = 1.28, 95% CI, 1.04-1.58), comparison with others (RR = 1.28, 95% CI, 1.01-1.62), real-life repercussions (RR = 1.86, 95% CI, 1.18-2.94), envy (RR = 2.49, 95% CI, 1.48-4.19), and need for profile management (RR = 2.32, 95% CI, 1.07-5.03). CONCLUSION These findings suggest that, for LGB persons, gaining social capital from SM is valuable for establishing and maintaining connections. Increased negative SM experiences may pose a risk for the mental well-being of LGB individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ariel Shensa
- University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Megan Hamm
- University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | | | | | - James E Egan
- University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Jaime E Sidani
- University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Brian A Primack
- College of Education and health Professions, University of Arkansas Fayetteville, Fayetteville, AR, USA
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Davis K, Charmaraman L, Weinstein E. Introduction to Special Issue: Adolescent and Emerging Adult Development in an Age of Social Media. JOURNAL OF ADOLESCENT RESEARCH 2019. [DOI: 10.1177/0743558419886392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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27
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Han X, Han W, Qu J, Li B, Zhu Q. What happens online stays online? —— Social media dependency, online support behavior and offline effects for LGBT. COMPUTERS IN HUMAN BEHAVIOR 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.chb.2018.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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28
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Luk JW, Gilman SE, Sita KR, Cheng C, Haynie DL, Simons-Morton BG. Cyber Behaviors Among Heterosexual and Sexual Minority Youth: Subgroup Differences and Associations with Health Indicators. CYBERPSYCHOLOGY BEHAVIOR AND SOCIAL NETWORKING 2019; 22:315-324. [PMID: 30896972 DOI: 10.1089/cyber.2018.0408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
To examine the associations of adolescent sexual orientation with cyber behaviors and health indicators 5 years later during young adulthood and test whether cyber behaviors contribute to sexual orientation health disparities. Data were drawn from Waves 2 and 7 from the NEXT Generational Health Study, a nationally representative cohort of U.S. adolescents (n = 2012). Multiple linear regressions were used to examine differences between sexual orientation subgroups (defined based on sexual attraction) in five cyber behaviors and five health indicators. Mediation analyses were conducted to examine whether cyber behaviors mediated the associations between bisexual attraction and health indicators. Relative to heterosexual peers, bisexual youth spent more time engaging in cyber behaviors and social media, and reported more psychosomatic symptoms and poorer general health. Gay and questioning males spent less time playing video games than heterosexual males. Bisexual females reported more depressive symptoms and less optimism and happiness than heterosexual females. Time spent on cyber behaviors and social media was a significant mediator of adolescent bisexual attraction and worse health outcomes in young adulthood. Frequency of cyber behaviors differed between sexual minority subgroups. Bisexual youth in particular had more psychosomatic symptoms and poorer general health. Engagement in cyber behaviors and social media use contributed to increased health disparities among bisexual youth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy W Luk
- 1 Social and Behavioral Sciences Branch, Division of Intramural Population Health Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, Maryland.,2 Department of Medical and Clinical Psychology, Suicide Care, Prevention, and Research Initiative, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Stephen E Gilman
- 1 Social and Behavioral Sciences Branch, Division of Intramural Population Health Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, Maryland.,3 Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Kellienne R Sita
- 1 Social and Behavioral Sciences Branch, Division of Intramural Population Health Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Cecilia Cheng
- 4 Department of Psychology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Denise L Haynie
- 1 Social and Behavioral Sciences Branch, Division of Intramural Population Health Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Bruce G Simons-Morton
- 1 Social and Behavioral Sciences Branch, Division of Intramural Population Health Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, Maryland
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Kranzler EC, Bleakley A. Youth Social Media Use and Health Outcomes: #diggingdeeper. J Adolesc Health 2019; 64:141-142. [PMID: 30660243 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2018.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2018] [Accepted: 11/21/2018] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Elissa C Kranzler
- Wharton Risk Management and Decision Processes Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Amy Bleakley
- Annenberg School for Communication, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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Lauckner C, Hill M, Ingram LA. An Exploratory Study of the Relationship between Social Technology Use and Depression among College Students. JOURNAL OF COLLEGE STUDENT PSYCHOTHERAPY 2018. [DOI: 10.1080/87568225.2018.1508396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Carolyn Lauckner
- Department of Health Promotion & Behavior, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
| | - Miranda Hill
- Department of Health Promotion & Behavior, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
| | - Lucy Annang Ingram
- Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
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Escobar-Viera CG, Whitfield DL, Wessel CB, Shensa A, Sidani JE, Brown AL, Chandler CJ, Hoffman BL, Marshal MP, Primack BA. For Better or for Worse? A Systematic Review of the Evidence on Social Media Use and Depression Among Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Minorities. JMIR Ment Health 2018; 5:e10496. [PMID: 30037786 PMCID: PMC6079300 DOI: 10.2196/10496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2018] [Revised: 05/18/2018] [Accepted: 06/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Over 90% of adults in the United States have at least one social media account, and lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) persons are more socially active on social media than heterosexuals. Rates of depression among LGB persons are between 1.5- and 2-fold higher than those among their heterosexual counterparts. Social media allows users to connect, interact, and express ideas, emotions, feelings, and thoughts. Thus, social media use might represent both a protective and a risk factor for depression among LGB persons. Studying the nature of the relationship between social media use and depression among LGB individuals is a necessary step to inform public health interventions for this population. OBJECTIVE The objective of this systematic review was to synthesize and critique the evidence on social media use and depression among LGB populations. METHODS We conducted a literature search for quantitative and qualitative studies published between January 2003 and June 2017 using 3 electronic databases. Articles were included if they were peer-reviewed, were in English, assessed social media use either quantitatively or qualitatively, measured depression, and focused on LGB populations. A minimum of two authors independently extracted data from each study using an a priori developed abstraction form. We assessed appropriate reporting of studies using the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology and the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research for quantitative and qualitative studies, respectively. RESULTS We included 11 articles in the review; 9 studies were quantitative and cross-sectional and 2 were qualitative. Appropriate reporting of results varied greatly. Across quantitative studies, we found heterogeneity in how social media use was defined and measured. Cyberbullying was the most studied social media experience and was associated with depression and suicidality. Qualitative studies found that while social media provides a space to disclose minority experiences and share ways to cope and get support, constant surveillance of one's social media profile can become a stressor, potentially leading to depression. In most studies, sexual minority participants were identified inconsistently. CONCLUSIONS This review supports the need for research on the role of social media use on depression outcomes among LBG persons. Using social media may be both a protective and a risk factor for depression among LGB individuals. Support gained via social media may buffer the impact of geographic isolation and loneliness. Negative experiences such as cyberbullying and other patterns of use may be associated with depression. Future research would benefit from more consistent definitions of both social media use and study populations. Moreover, use of larger samples and accounting for patterns of use and individuals' experiences on social media may help better understand the factors that impact LGB mental health disparities.
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Affiliation(s)
- César G Escobar-Viera
- Center for Research on Media, Technology, and Health, School of Medicine, University of Pittburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States.,Center for LGBT Health Research, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Darren L Whitfield
- Center for LGBT Health Research, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States.,School of Social Work, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States.,Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Charles B Wessel
- Health Sciences Library, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Ariel Shensa
- Center for Research on Media, Technology, and Health, School of Medicine, University of Pittburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Jaime E Sidani
- Center for Research on Media, Technology, and Health, School of Medicine, University of Pittburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Andre L Brown
- Center for LGBT Health Research, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Cristian J Chandler
- Center for LGBT Health Research, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Beth L Hoffman
- Center for Research on Media, Technology, and Health, School of Medicine, University of Pittburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Michael P Marshal
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Brian A Primack
- Center for Research on Media, Technology, and Health, School of Medicine, University of Pittburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
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32
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Grafsky EL, Gary EA. What sexual minority youths want in a program to assist with disclosure to their family. JOURNAL OF GAY & LESBIAN SOCIAL SERVICES 2018; 30:172-191. [PMID: 31576102 PMCID: PMC6771263 DOI: 10.1080/10538720.2018.1444526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Disclosing one's sexual orientation to family members can be a difficult process for sexual minority youth (SMY). There are many decisions to make and factors to consider, such as whom to tell first and how family members may react. SMY are in need of resources to help them through this process, including programs that help them to make decisions about safe disclosure. Through interviews and open-ended surveys with 48 participants, the authors found that overall, SMY want a program that helps them connect with others. There were no strong preferences for facilitators' gender, and participants differed in opinions on facilitators' sexual orientation. However, most agreed that they would like a program that provides education and the opportunity to hear from and share stories with others.
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