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Vance SR, Venegas L, Johnson J, Sinha A, Chaphekar AV, Sevelius J. Community-Derived Recommendations for Improving Gender Affirmation of Black and Latine Transgender/Nonbinary Youth. Ann Behav Med 2024; 58:517-526. [PMID: 38963074 PMCID: PMC11237890 DOI: 10.1093/abm/kaae036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gender affirmation is a process by which gender-diverse individuals are supported in their gender identity. Parents are critical in how gender-diverse youth, including Black and Latine transgender/nonbinary youth (BLTY), access various forms of gender affirmation-for example, social and medical transition. Culturally relevant supports are needed to bolster how BLTY and their parents navigate gender affirmation. PURPOSE This study aimed to explore recommendations for aiding BLTY and parents in navigating the youth's gender journey. METHODS Semi-structured interviews were conducted with parents of BLTY, BLTY, and BLT young adults (BLTYAs) recruited from clinics, community organizations, and social media. Interviews focused on gender affirmation and recommendations to promote BLTY's gender affirmation. Primary and secondary analysts coded transcripts using a priori and emergent codes. For this analysis, excerpts pertaining to recommended supports were analyzed to identify themes. RESULTS Ten parents of BLTY, 10 BLTY (14-18 years), and 23 BLTYAs (18-30 years) participated. Participants provided recommendations at different socio-ecological levels. On the societal level, participants recommended improvements in media representation of racial and ethnic minority gender-diverse individuals. For organizations, participants recommended more clinicians who shared minoritized identities, clinicians knowledgeable in gender-affirming care, affordability of gender-affirming services, and school-based education regarding gender diversity. On interpersonal/individual levels, they suggested culturally informed peer support among BLTY and parents, including support groups, peer mentors, and camps with individuals who share their minoritized identities. CONCLUSIONS Participants provided salient insights to supporting gender affirmation of BLTY, which can inform intervention development for BLTY and their families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stanley R Vance
- Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Luz Venegas
- Department of Medicine, Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Jack Johnson
- Department of Medicine, Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Anoushka Sinha
- Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Anita V Chaphekar
- Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Jae Sevelius
- Department of Medicine, Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
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de Rooy FBB, Arnoldussen M, van der Miesen AIR, Steensma TD, Kreukels BPC, Popma A, de Vries ALC. Mental Health Evaluation of Younger and Older Adolescents Referred to the Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria in Amsterdam, The Netherlands. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2024:10.1007/s10508-024-02940-3. [PMID: 38980647 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-024-02940-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2023] [Revised: 06/09/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
The present study aimed to investigate whether differences exist between younger and older presenting adolescents at the Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria regarding psychological functioning and autistic traits. A total of 1487 consecutively assessed adolescents between 2000 and 2018 were divided in younger presenters (age ≤ 13.9 years) and older presenters (age ≥ 14 years). Of younger presenters, 227 (41.1%) were assigned male at birth and 325 (58.9%) assigned female at birth. In older presenters, 279 (29.8%) were assigned male at birth and 656 (70.2%) assigned female at birth. Behavioral and emotional problems were assessed with the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) and the Youth Self-Report (YSR). For autism traits, the Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS) was used. Compared to younger presenters, on both the CBCL and YSR older presenters had higher Total Problem (β = 1.75, p = .005, CI 0.53-2.97, R2 = .04 and β = 4.20, p < .001, CI 2.99-5.40, R2 = .07, respectively) and Internalizing Problem (β = 4.43, p < .001, CI 3.13-5.74, R2 = .06 and β = 6.69, p < .001, CI 5.31-8.07, R2 = .12, respectively) scores. Regarding autistic traits, a higher mean SRS total score was found in older presenting assigned males at birth (β = 4.55, p = .036, CI 0.30-8.81, R2 = .34). In assigned females at birth, no statistically significant difference between older and younger presenters was found in mean SRS total score (β = 1.19, p = .063, CI - 0.07 to 2.45, R2 = .39). Differences in mental health exist between younger and older presenting adolescents and call for an individualized approach in the clinical care of transgender adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frédérique B B de Rooy
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
- Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, De Boelelaan 1117, PO Box 7057, 1007 MB, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Marijn Arnoldussen
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, De Boelelaan 1117, PO Box 7057, 1007 MB, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Anna I R van der Miesen
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, De Boelelaan 1117, PO Box 7057, 1007 MB, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Thomas D Steensma
- Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, De Boelelaan 1117, PO Box 7057, 1007 MB, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Medical Psychology, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Baudewijntje P C Kreukels
- Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, De Boelelaan 1117, PO Box 7057, 1007 MB, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Medical Psychology, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Arne Popma
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Annelou L C de Vries
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, De Boelelaan 1117, PO Box 7057, 1007 MB, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Koh H, Farrant B, Fenaughty J, Ameratunga S, Peris-John R, Bavin L. Asian Rainbow Youth in New Zealand: Protective Factors. J Adolesc Health 2024:S1054-139X(24)00262-3. [PMID: 38980245 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2024.05.026] [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: 10/26/2023] [Revised: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To explore the impacts of double minority status (ethnic and sexual/gender minority) and protective factors associated with the emotional wellbeing and mental health of Asian Rainbow (sexual/gender minority) youth in New Zealand. METHODS The data were extracted from the Youth19 Rangatahi survey, which surveyed 7,374 students from 45 mainstream secondary schools. The comparison groups were Asian non-Rainbow youth and Pākehā (New Zealand European) Rainbow youth. A secondary analysis was performed examining the associations between postulated protective factors and the emotional wellbeing and mental health outcomes of Asian Rainbow youth. RESULTS Asian Rainbow youth had higher odds of depressive symptoms, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts and attempts and lower odds of good emotional wellbeing compared to Asian non-Rainbow youth. However, Asian Rainbow youth had lower odds of anxiety compared to Pākehā Rainbow youth. Among Asian Rainbow youth, family acceptance and feeling safe at school were associated with higher odds of good emotional wellbeing, and lower odds of depressive symptoms, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts. Several other protective factors were also associated with 1 or more (but not all) of the emotional wellbeing and mental health indicators. DISCUSSION This study suggests that family acceptance and feeling safe at school may serve as important buffers mitigating risks of adverse emotional wellbeing experienced by Asian Rainbow youth.
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Affiliation(s)
- How Koh
- Kidz First, Te Whatu Ora Counties Manukau, New Zealand
| | - Bridget Farrant
- Kidz First, Te Whatu Ora Counties Manukau, New Zealand; Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medical Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.
| | - John Fenaughty
- School of Counselling, Human Services and Social Work, Faculty of Education and Social Work, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Shanthi Ameratunga
- Section of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Population Health, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand; Te Whatu Ora - Service Improvement & Innovation, Population Health Gain Team, Counties Manukau, New Zealand
| | - Roshini Peris-John
- Section of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Population Health, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Lynda Bavin
- Section of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Population Health, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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Wallace ER, O'Neill S, Lagdon S. Risk and protective factors for suicidality among lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) young people, from countries with a high global acceptance index (GAI), within the context of the socio-ecological model: A scoping review. J Adolesc 2024; 96:897-924. [PMID: 38372179 DOI: 10.1002/jad.12308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 02/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) young people experience higher prevalence rates of suicidality than their heterosexual and/or cisgender peers. However, there is limited research that can inform suicide prevention efforts. Our aim was to synthesize quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods research on risk and protective factors among LGBTQ+ young people, from countries with a high Global Acceptance Index. METHODS A scoping review guided by Arksey and O'Malley's five-stage framework, using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis Extension for Scoping Reviews protocol. Five databases and grey literature were searched for relevant studies. Identified factors were clustered by thematic type, according to the socio-ecological model to identify empirical trends and knowledge gaps. The mixed methods appraisal tool was used for quality assessment of studies. RESULTS Sixty-six studies met our inclusion criteria. Overall, 59 unique risk factors and 37 unique protective factors were identified. Key risk factors include past suicidality, adverse childhood experiences, internalized queerphobia, minority stress, interpersonal violence, bullying, familial conflict, and anti-LGBTQ+ policies/legislation. Key protective factors include self-affirming strategies, adult/peer support, at-school safety, access to inclusive healthcare, family connectedness, positive coming out experiences, gender-affirming services and LGBTQ+ inclusive policies and legislation. CONCLUSIONS Overall, our findings affirm that multiple risk and protective factors, at all levels of the socio-ecological model, interact in complex, unique and diverse ways upon suicidality among LGBTQ+ young people. Implications for suicide prevention are discussed. Further empirical studies are required, particularly at the communities, policies, and societal levels of the socio-ecological model, and these studies should include a focus on protective factors and significant within-group differences.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Siobhan O'Neill
- School of Psychology, Ulster University, Coleraine, Northern Ireland
| | - Susan Lagdon
- School of Psychology, Ulster University, Coleraine, Northern Ireland
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Harvey TD, Watson RJ, Clark KA. Arrest History and Health Among U.S. Sexual and Gender Minority Youth, 2022. Am J Prev Med 2024:S0749-3797(24)00194-6. [PMID: 38878985 DOI: 10.1016/j.amepre.2024.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2024] [Revised: 06/06/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 07/07/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Sexual and gender minority youth, who experience high mental and behavioral health needs, are overrepresented in the criminal legal system, which may exacerbate these needs. This study examined the associations between arrest history and mental and behavioral health among sexual and gender minority youth. METHODS Using cross-sectional survey data from the 2022 LGBTQ+ National Teen Survey, this study created a case-control sample of 287 sexual and gender minority youth with an arrest history and 1,148 propensity-matched sexual and gender minority youth without an arrest history. Associations between arrest history and sexual and gender minority developmental milestones, minority stressors, and mental and behavioral health outcomes were examined. Statistical analyses were conducted between 2022 and 2024. RESULTS Arrest history was significantly associated with several sexual and gender minority developmental milestones (e.g., earlier age of identity realization and disclosure) and minority stressors (e.g., greater bullying and parental rejection). Sexual and gender minority youth with an arrest history had poorer mental and behavioral health, including greater sleep disturbance (AOR=1.46; 95% CI=1.08, 2.00) and positive screenings for depression (AOR=1.60; 95% CI=1.20, 2.14), anxiety (AOR=1.35; 95% CI=1.01, 1.82), and risk for substance use disorder development (AOR=5.81; 95% CI=4.26, 7.94). CONCLUSIONS Arrest history is associated with the mental and behavioral health of sexual and gender minority youth, highlighting systemic inequities. Tailored public health interventions are needed to reduce criminal-legal contact in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tyler D Harvey
- MD-PhD Program, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut.
| | - Ryan J Watson
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut
| | - Kirsty A Clark
- Program in Public Policy Studies, Department of Medicine, Health, and Society, College of Arts and Sciences, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee; Vanderbilt LGBTQ+ Policy Lab, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee
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Pang KY, Siau CS, Ho MC, Ooi PB, Tan YK, Woi PJ, Lai SA, Chan CMH. Fear of detachment from mobile phone: nomophobia and suicidality among Malaysian university students before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. PSYCHOL HEALTH MED 2024; 29:1044-1054. [PMID: 37876137 DOI: 10.1080/13548506.2023.2274315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023]
Abstract
The attachment to mobile devices during the COVID-19 pandemic has led to the possibility of increased nomophobia, which is the intense fear of losing access to one's mobile device. Therefore, this study aimed to determine if nomophobia was independently associated with suicidality before and during the COVID-19 pandemic among university students in Malaysia. This cross-sectional study had two-time points in data collection: one year before and one year into the COVID-19 pandemic. N = 806 university students aged ≥ 18 years completed an online questionnaire comprising the Nomophobia Questionnaire, Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support, and the Suicidal Behaviors Questionnaire-Revised. A multiple logistic regression (controlling for gender, age, and social support) was conducted to determine the association between nomophobia and suicidality before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. The prevalence of severe nomophobia before and during the COVID-19 pandemic was 15.7% and 35.6% respectively. The level of nomophobia was significantly higher during the COVID-19 pandemic compared to pre-pandemic. Pre-pandemic, there were no significant associations. During the pandemic, participants with moderate (aOR 3.09, 95% CI [1.14-8.40], p = .027) and severe (aOR 3.57, 95% CI [1.25-10.20], p = .018) nomophobia had higher odds of suicide plan. During the pandemic, moderate and severe nomophobia were independently associated with more than three times higher odds for a lifetime suicide plan. Our study findings carry implications for the well-being of university students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khong Yun Pang
- Department of Psychology, Sunway University, Petaling Jaya, Malaysia
| | - Ching Sin Siau
- Center for Community Health Studies (ReaCH), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Meng Chuan Ho
- Department of General Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences and Liberal Arts, UCSI University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Faculty of Education, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Pei Boon Ooi
- Department of Medical Sciences, Sunway University, Petaling Jaya, Malaysia
| | - Yee Kee Tan
- Center for Community Health Studies (ReaCH), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Pui Juan Woi
- Center for Community Health Studies (ReaCH), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Samantha Arielle Lai
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Social Sciences and Liberal Arts, UCSI University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Caryn Mei Hsien Chan
- Center for Community Health Studies (ReaCH), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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Tepman A, Wong ML. The role of victimisation and sleep quality in self-harm and depression among sexual minority adolescents. A prospective cohort study. Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2024:10.1007/s00787-024-02444-4. [PMID: 38671245 DOI: 10.1007/s00787-024-02444-4] [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: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Sexual minority adolescents (SMA) have a disproportionately high prevalence of victimisation, self-harm, and depressed mood, relative to the general population. Yet, the contributing and mechanistic factors are unclear. We aim to explore the directional relationship between victimisation and self-harm and depressed mood, with poor sleep quality as a possible mediator. A secondary data analysis was conducted using a nationally representative birth cohort in the United Kingdom, where participants self-identified as sexual minority (N = 1922, aged 11-13, 67.1% female) and their parents completed questionnaires and interviews when the participants were aged 11, 14 and 17. Logistic and linear regression were used to test whether victimisation prospectively predicted self-harm and depressed mood with mediation analyses conducted to assess if sleep onset latency and nocturnal awakening mediated their relationships. After adjusting for demographic factors and baseline self-harm and depressed mood, victimisation at age 11 significantly predicted self-harm (OR = 1.40, p < .01) and depressed mood (B = 0.024, SE = 0.01, p < .05) at age 17. In the mediation analyses, frequent nocturnal awakening at age 14, but not sleep onset latency, significantly mediated the effect of victimisation at age 11 on self-harm (indirect effect B = 0.008, SE = 0.004, 95%CI = 0.001-0.017) and depressed mood (indirect effect B = 0.005, SE = 0.002 95%CI = 0.001-0.010) at age 17. Our findings supported that victimisation contributed to negative mental health among SMA. Poor sleep quality could be an indicator of maladjustment with victimisation, which further increased vulnerability to negative mental health. Victimisation and sleep quality could be important assessment targets in mental health campaign among sexual minority adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mark Lawrence Wong
- Department of Social and Behavioural Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, Hong Kong.
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Gerke DR, Atteberry-Ash B, Call J, Hostetter CR. Adolescent Substance Use at the Intersection of Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity. SUBSTANCE USE & ADDICTION JOURNAL 2024:29767342241241398. [PMID: 38567540 DOI: 10.1177/29767342241241398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Substance use in adolescence is associated with multiple negative outcomes. Lesbian, gay, or bisexual or transgender or nonbinary (TNB) youth, and those who question their sexual orientation or gender, are more likely to engage in substance use than straight or cisgender youth. However, the extant literature largely considers sexual orientation and gender identity independently. Accordingly, this study examines the associations between the intersectional identities of sexual orientation and gender and substance use to identify those with the greatest need for prevention interventions. METHODS Data were from 36 504 high school students aged 14 to 18 years (mean = 15.7, SD = 1.18) enrolled in the 2019 Healthy Kids Colorado Survey using a statewide stratified random sampling design. Logistic regression models examined the associations between intersectional sexual orientation and gender on marijuana use, prescription drug misuse, and polysubstance use, as well as depression and violence victimization (eg, forced sex, partner violence). RESULTS Adjusted odds of substance use for sexual and gender minority youth varied by intersectional identity and substance. The largest effect sizes were seen for prescription drug misuse, especially among those questioning their gender and sexual orientation and heterosexuals either questioning their gender or who identified as TNB. Effect sizes for marijuana use and polysubstance use were highest for TNB and heterosexual participants. Depression and violence victimization were significantly associated with each substance use outcome. CONCLUSIONS Interventions to reduce substance use in these populations may benefit from targeted interventions for youth with different intersectional identities, and a focus on violence prevention and depression screening and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donald R Gerke
- Department of Social Work, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | | | - Jarrod Call
- School of Social Work and Criminal Justice, University of Washington Tacoma, Tacoma, WA, USA
| | - C Riley Hostetter
- Graduate School of Social Work, University of Denver, Denver, CO, USA
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Sönmez İ. How Does Sexual Identity-Attraction Discordance Influence Suicide Risk? A Study on Male and Female Adults in the U.S. Arch Suicide Res 2024; 28:686-700. [PMID: 37303190 DOI: 10.1080/13811118.2023.2220757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Suicide continues to be one of the main causes of death among adults in the U.S. Research showed an association between sexual identity-attraction discordance (IAD) and adverse health outcomes, including suicidal ideation. METHODS We sought to determine whether sexual IAD is associated with self-injurious thoughts and behaviors (SITBs), namely suicidal thoughts, plans, and suicide attempts, in the past year. We examined data from adults participating in the most recent six waves (2015-2020) of the National Survey on Drug Use and Health. RESULTS Men who report sexual identity-attraction discordance were at greater risk of reporting suicidal thoughts (aOR = 3.67, 95% CI: 2.24-6.00) and plans (aOR = 5.71, 95% CI: 3.32-9.81) in the past year. Stratified by sexual identity, results showed that gay (aOR = 5.92, 95% CI: 1.54-22.7) and bisexual men (aOR = 4.38, 95% CI: 2.17-8.83) had higher odds of reporting suicide plans and heterosexual (aOR = 2.66, 95% CI: 1.06-6.68), gay (aOR = 7.05, 95% CI: 1.88-26.4), and bisexual men (aOR = 5.30, 95% CI: 4.37-22.9) had higher odds of suicide attempts when compared to men with concordant sexual identity-attraction. We found that bisexual women who report sexual identity-attraction discordance had less odds of reporting suicidal thoughts (aOR = 0.36, 95% CI: 0.21-0.63) and suicide plans (aOR = 0.43, 95% CI: 0.20-0.89) than women with concordant sexual identity-attraction. Among bisexual-identified males, those who experience sexual identity-attraction discordance were at greater risk for past-year suicidal thoughts (aOR = 3.82, 95% CI: 2.12-6.91) and suicide attempts (aOR = 5.30, 95% CI: 2.13-13.1) when compared to bisexual men with concordant sexual identity-attraction. CONCLUSION Sexual IAD is associated with SITB and particularly concerning results emerged concerning bisexual-identified men.
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Kasson E, Szlyk HS, Li X, Constantino-Pettit A, Smith AC, Vázquez MM, Wilfley DE, Taylor CB, Fitzsimmons-Craft EE, Cavazos-Rehg P. Eating disorder symptoms and comorbid mental health risk among teens recruited to a digital intervention research study via two online approaches. Int J Eat Disord 2024. [PMID: 38445416 DOI: 10.1002/eat.24186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION It is crucial to identify and evaluate feasible, proactive ways to reach teens with eating disorders (EDs) who may not otherwise have access to screening or treatment. This study aimed to explore the feasibility of recruiting teens with EDs to a digital intervention study via social media and a publicly available online ED screen, and to compare the characteristics of teens recruited by each approach in an exploratory fashion. METHOD Teens aged 14-17 years old who screened positive for a clinical/subclinical ED or at risk for an ED and who were not currently in ED treatment completed a baseline survey to assess current ED symptoms, mental health comorbidities, and barriers to treatment. Bivariate analyses were conducted to examine differences between participants recruited via social media and those recruited after completion of a widely available online EDs screen (i.e., National Eating Disorders Association [NEDA] screen). RESULTS Recruitment of teens with EDs using the two online approaches was found to be feasible, with 934 screens completed and a total of 134 teens enrolled over 6 months: 77% (n = 103) via social media 23% (n = 31) via the NEDA screen. Mean age of participants (N = 134) was 16 years old, with 49% (n = 66) identifying as non-White, and 70% (n = 94) identifying as a gender and/or sexual minority. Teens from NEDA reported higher ED psychopathology scores (medium effect size) and more frequent self-induced vomiting and driven exercise (small effect sizes). Teens from NEDA also endorsed more barriers to treatment, including not feeling ready for treatment and not knowing where to find a counselor or other resources (small effect sizes). DISCUSSION Online recruitment approaches in this study reached a large number of teens with an interest in a digital intervention to support ED recovery, demonstrating the feasibility of these outreach methods. Both approaches reached teens with similar demographic characteristics; however, teens recruited from NEDA reported higher ED symptom severity and barriers to treatment. Findings suggest that proactive assessment and intervention methods should be developed and tailored to meet the needs of each of these groups. PUBLIC SIGNIFICANCE This study examined the feasibility of recruiting teens with EDs to a digital intervention research study via social media and NEDA's online screen, and demonstrated differences in ED symptoms among participants by recruitment approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin Kasson
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Hannah S Szlyk
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Xiao Li
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Anna Constantino-Pettit
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Arielle C Smith
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Melissa M Vázquez
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Denise E Wilfley
- Department of Psychology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - C Barr Taylor
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
- Center for m2Health, Palo Alto University, Palo Alto, California, USA
| | | | - Patricia Cavazos-Rehg
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
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Turnamian MR, Liu RT. Gender identity and expression in relation to depression and anxiety in racial and ethnic minority youth: Evaluations of intersectionality in a population-based study. J Affect Disord 2023; 339:219-226. [PMID: 37437727 PMCID: PMC10529835 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2023.07.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Transgender and gender non-conforming (TGNC) youth experience higher rates of depression and anxiety. Risk for these outcomes in racial and ethnic minority populations remains unclear. This study aimed to examine disparities in depression and anxiety at the intersection of race and ethnicity and TGNC status in a population-based sample. METHODS Data were from the 2019 Minnesota Student Survey. Students (n = 119,648) completed questions about their race, ethnicity, gender identity and expression, depression, and anxiety. RESULTS Within racial and ethnic groups, TGNC youth generally had greater risk for depression and anxiety. Significant associations for gender minority identity ranged from ORDepression = 2.25 for Black youth who do not identify as male to ORDepression = 5.08 for non-minority ethnicity youth who do not identify as female. For perceived gender expression in cisgender youth, significant associations ranged from ORDepression = 1.17 for Black youth assigned female at birth and ORAnxiety = 1.17 for other-minority ethnicity youth assigned female at birth to ORDepression = 1.46 for non-minority ethnicity youth assigned female at birth and ORAnxiety = 1.46 for American Indian/Alaskan Native youth assigned male at birth. Within-TGNC-youth comparisons yielded a few racial/ethnic differences relative to White peers. Significant differences ranged from ORAnxiety = 0.53 to ORAnxiety = 1.41 for cisgender females. LIMITATIONS The cross-sectional data limits our ability to test causation. CONCLUSIONS Multiple-minority youth were not universally at increased risk for depression and anxiety, indicating an intersectional framework is important for understanding risk for these outcomes in TGNC youth. Future research identifying potential risk and protective factors is needed to advance screening and treatment strategies for multiple-minority TGNC youth populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margarid R Turnamian
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, United States of America; Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, United States of America; Depression Clinical and Research Program, Massachusetts General Hospital, United States of America.
| | - Richard T Liu
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, United States of America; Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, United States of America; Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, United States of America; Depression Clinical and Research Program, Massachusetts General Hospital, United States of America
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12
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Barbour EK, Smallwood SW, Hurt Y. Examining social activity, need to belong, and depression among college students. JOURNAL OF AMERICAN COLLEGE HEALTH : J OF ACH 2023; 71:2263-2271. [PMID: 34449282 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2021.1967357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2020] [Revised: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Prior research suggests that social connectedness is associated with lower levels of depression among college students. The aim of this exploratory study was to determine if an association existed between social activity, need to belong, and depression. Variations in study measures by race, gender, and student status were also explored. PARTICIPANTS Data was collected from students attending a large university in the southeastern United States during the Spring 2019 academic semester (N = 299). METHODS Participants completed an anonymous self-administered survey, which was offered in both electronic and paper formats. RESULTS Need to belong significantly predicted depression among college students even when accounting for social activity and response bias. Study measures varied significantly based on race, gender, and student status. CONCLUSION Belonging and social connectedness may be utilized by collegiate stakeholders to increase student and university outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth K Barbour
- Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health, Georgia Southern University, Statesboro, Georgia, USA
| | - Stacy W Smallwood
- Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health, Georgia Southern University, Statesboro, Georgia, USA
| | - Yanise Hurt
- Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health, Georgia Southern University, Statesboro, Georgia, USA
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13
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Shihabuddin CD, Lee G, Casler K. Evidence-based sexual healthcare for the LGBTQIA2+ patient across the lifespan. Nurse Pract 2023; 48:22-30. [PMID: 37643142 DOI: 10.1097/01.npr.0000000000000089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT People who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning, intersex, asexual, two-spirit, or other minority sexual and gender identities (LGBTQIA2+) often avoid seeking healthcare due to social discrimination and stigma. Clinical education in LGBTQIA2+-affirming care is essential but often lacking across disciplines. Provider acceptance, awareness of personal biases, and understanding of microaggressions affecting LGBTQIA2+ people can improve access, outcomes, and survival for this population. Expertise in caring for LGBTQIA2+ people in rural and suburban communities, for people who are transgender, and for people who have undergone or are in the process of undergoing gender-affirming surgeries is essential to offer best-practice healthcare.
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14
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Shen J, Rubin A, Cohen K, Hart E, Sung J, McDanal R, Roulston C, Sotomayor I, Fox K, Schleider J. Randomized evaluation of an online single-session intervention for minority stress in LGBTQ+ adolescents. Internet Interv 2023; 33:100633. [PMID: 37635950 PMCID: PMC10457524 DOI: 10.1016/j.invent.2023.100633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Revised: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Background LGBTQ+ youth face myriad adverse health outcomes due to minority stress, creating a need for accessible, mechanism-targeted interventions to mitigate these minority stress-related risk factors. We tested the effectiveness and acceptability of Project RISE, an online single-session intervention designed to ameliorate internalized stigma and improve other outcomes among LGBTQ+ youth. We hypothesized that youth assigned to RISE (versus a control) would report significantly reduced internalized stigma and increased identity pride at post-intervention and at two-week follow-up and would find RISE acceptable. Methods We recruited adolescents nationally through Instagram advertisements in May 2022 (N = 538; M age = 15.06, SD age = 0.97). Participants were randomly assigned to RISE or an information-only control and completed questionnaires pre-intervention, immediately post-intervention, and two weeks post-intervention. Inclusion criteria included endorsing: (1) LGBTQ+ identity, (2) age 13-16, (3) English fluency (4) Internet access, and (5) subjective negative impact of LGBTQ+ stigma. Results Relative to participants in the control condition, participants who completed RISE reported significant decreases in internalized stigma (d = -0.49) and increases in identity pride (d = 0.25) from pre- to immediately post-intervention, along with decreased internalized stigma (d = -0.26) from baseline to two-week follow-up. Participants rated both RISE and the information-only control as highly, equivalently acceptable. Conclusions RISE appears to be an acceptable and useful online SSI for LGBTQ+ adolescents, with potential to reduce internalized stigma in both the short- and longer-term. Future directions include evaluating effects of Project RISE over longer follow-ups and in conjunction with other mental health supports.
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Affiliation(s)
- J. Shen
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, United States of America
| | - A. Rubin
- Department of Psychology, University of Denver, United States of America
| | - K. Cohen
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, United States of America
| | - E.A. Hart
- Department of Psychology, University of Denver, United States of America
| | - J. Sung
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, United States of America
| | - R. McDanal
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, United States of America
| | - C. Roulston
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, United States of America
| | - I. Sotomayor
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, United States of America
| | - K.R. Fox
- Department of Psychology, University of Denver, United States of America
| | - J.L. Schleider
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, United States of America
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, United States of America
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15
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Scoresby K, Jurney C, Fackler A, Tran CV, Nugent W, Strand E. Relationships between diversity demographics, psychological distress, and suicidal thinking in the veterinary profession: a nationwide cross-sectional study during COVID-19. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1130826. [PMID: 37662992 PMCID: PMC10469311 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1130826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose This study aimed to determine the relationship between demographic diversity and veterinary professionals regarding their psychological distress and suicidal experiences. This study also aimed to determine what demographic factors were associated with psychological distress and suicidal experiences for veterinary professionals. Methods This study used a cross-sectional web-based questionnaire to assess the prevalence of diversity, psychological distress, and suicidality in individuals over 18 working in the veterinary field within the United States. The study received 2,482 responses resulting in 2,208 responses that were included in the analysis. Descriptive statistics were performed to identify the categories with the highest rates of psychological distress, suicidal thoughts, and suicidal behaviors. Binomial logistic regressions were conducted to identify the strongest statistical predictors of psychological distress (Kessler-6-K6), suicidal thinking and suicide behaviors. Results Of the 2,208 respondents included in the analysis, 888 (41%) were experiencing serious psychological distress and 381 (17.3%) had considered suicide in the past 12 months. Results of the binomial regressions indicate gender, social class, age, and disability status were the strongest predictors of psychological distress. When controlling for psychological distress, the strongest predictors of suicidal thinking were sexual orientation, marital status, and professional role. Implications Limited research has been done to explore the relationship between demographic diversity of veterinary professionals and psychological distress, suicidal thoughts, and suicidal behaviors specifically. These results shed light on multiple demographic factors that promote and attenuate mental health, as well as the importance of asking respondents their demographic identities in veterinary medicine research. This research attempts to identify these mental health factors without collapsing categories with small sample sizes, which does cause a limitation in statistical power, yet also demonstrates how to increase inclusivity in research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristel Scoresby
- College of Social Work, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - Carrie Jurney
- Not One More Vet, San Francisco, CA, United States
- Remedy Veterinary Specialists, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Amanda Fackler
- College of Social Work, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - Christina V. Tran
- Multicultural Veterinary Medical Association, Silverdale, WA, United States
- College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - William Nugent
- College of Social Work, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - Elizabeth Strand
- Veterinary Social Work, Colleges of Veterinary Medicine and Social Work, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States
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16
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Sönmez İ, Palamar JJ. Trends in Self-Injurious Thoughts and Behaviors Among US Adults, 2015-2019: Differential Risk According to Sexual Orientation. Arch Suicide Res 2023; 27:956-965. [PMID: 35801497 PMCID: PMC9825676 DOI: 10.1080/13811118.2022.2096519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Suicide continues to be one of the leading causes of death in the United States and lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) individuals are disproportionately at risk of suicide in comparison to heterosexuals. METHODS We examined data from adults participating for five waves (2015-2019) of the National Survey on Drug Use and Health. We first determined whether there is differential risk of suicidal thoughts, suicide plans, and suicide attempts (self-injurious thoughts and behaviors [SITBs]) in the past year according to current sexual orientation. We then estimated linear trends in prevalence of each SITB outcome stratified by each sexual orientation category. RESULTS We estimate that compared to heterosexual men and women, gay and bisexual men and lesbian and bisexual women are at greater odds of past-year suicidal thoughts, suicide plans, and suicide attempts, respective to their sexes. Between 2015 and 2019, suicidal thoughts increased among bisexual men (by 34.3%, p = 0.037), lesbian women (by 18.4%, p = 0.033), and bisexual women (by 15.7%, p < 0.001). Prevalence of suicide plans increased among heterosexual men (by 15.3%, p = 0.017), gay men (by 28.5%, p = 0.037), and bisexual women (by 23.2%, p < 0.001). Suicide attempts increased among bisexual women by 26.6% (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Sexual minority identity is a risk factor for SITBs. Bisexual women in particular are not only at greater risk for SITBs, but estimated prevalence has increased in recent years. More attention needs to be paid to LGB populations regarding future suicide prevention efforts.
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17
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Alvarez-Hernandez LR, Mowbray O. Trends in Suicide Among Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Hispanic Individuals: National Violent Death Reporting System Data from 2012-2016. JOURNAL OF HOMOSEXUALITY 2023; 70:1225-1239. [PMID: 34990312 DOI: 10.1080/00918369.2021.2018878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Due to multiple minority stressors, persons who are Hispanic and lesbian, gay or bisexual (LGB) can experience an increased risk of injury and death, including suicide. We examined trends and correlates of deaths by suicide among LGB Hispanic individuals using data from the National Violent Death Reporting System from 2012 to 2016 (N = 1,132). A multilevel mixed-effects logistic regression model examined time-series trends associated with suicide between LGB and heterosexual individuals, controlling for sociodemographic and clinical characteristics. Over time, increases in suicide were larger among LGB Hispanic individuals. Increased odds associated with suicide were also attributed to women, individuals with a higher education level, those who experienced mental health problems, those with alcohol-related problems, and individuals with a history of mental illness. LGB Hispanic individuals continue to see an increased risk for suicidality. Health intervention and policy efforts should focus on the multiple minority stressors experienced by this population.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Orion Mowbray
- School of Social Work, The University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
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18
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White J, Moore L, Cannings-John R, Hawkins J, Bonell C, Hickman M, Zammit S, Adara L. Association Between Gender Minority Status and Mental Health in High School Students. J Adolesc Health 2023; 72:811-814. [PMID: 36809864 PMCID: PMC10824667 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2022.12.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Revised: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/21/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Adolescence is a phase when young people begin to explore their gender identity. Adolescents who identify as a gender minority are vulnerable to experiencing mental health problems due to stigmatization of their identity. METHODS A population-wide study compared gender minority and cisgender students (aged 13-14 years) self-reported symptoms of probable depression, anxiety, and conduct disorder, and auditory hallucinations, including the distress and frequency of hallucinations. RESULTS Gender minority students compared to cisgender students had four times the odds of reporting a probable depressive disorder, anxiety disorder, auditory hallucinations, but not conduct disorder. Of those who reported a hallucination, gender minority students were more likely to report hearing them daily but were no more likely to find them distressing. DISCUSSION Gender minority students experience a disproportionate burden of mental health problems. Services and programming should be adapted to better support gender minority high-school students.
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Affiliation(s)
- James White
- Centre for Trials Research, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK.
| | - Laurence Moore
- MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, Institute of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | | | - Jemma Hawkins
- DECIPHer, School of Social Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Chris Bonell
- Department of Public Health, Environment and Society, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Matthew Hickman
- Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Stanley Zammit
- Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Linda Adara
- Centre for Trials Research, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
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19
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Sierra MA, Ortiz E. Feasibility and effect of a self-help online acceptance and commitment therapy program focused on repetitive negative thinking for Colombian young women. JOURNAL OF CONTEXTUAL BEHAVIORAL SCIENCE 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcbs.2023.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/17/2023]
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20
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Brangwin E, Zhao Z, Shramko M, Toomey RB, Syvertsen AK. The Association Between Family Physical Abuse and Suicide Attempts Among Gender Minority Adolescents: A Comparison Study. LGBT Health 2023; 10:99-108. [PMID: 36106997 PMCID: PMC9986013 DOI: 10.1089/lgbt.2021.0415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: This study examines the prevalence of reported family physical abuse and the concurrent association between abuse and suicide attempts by adolescent gender identity. Methods: This study used the Profiles of Student Life: Attitudes and Behaviors dataset (N = 121,150 adolescents aged 11-19 [mean = 14.74, standard deviation = 1.78]) collected from 61 participating school districts and programs across the United States by Search Institute from 2012 to 2015. Multigroup logistic regression was used to examine the association between family abuse and suicide attempts by gender identity. Correlates included race/ethnicity, age, parent education, rurality, binge drinking, and tobacco use. Results: Results indicated that cisgender adolescents (i.e., participants who did not select a transgender identity) reported significantly less family abuse compared to gender minority adolescents. Family physical abuse was associated with higher odds of suicide attempts among all adolescents. The association was stronger for female adolescents compared to male adolescents but not significantly different across gender minority adolescents, including those who identify as transgender female to male, transgender male to female, and transgender without identifying or being unsure of their gender identity. The association between family physical abuse and suicide attempts was stronger among heterosexual female adolescents compared to sexual minority female, heterosexual male, sexual minority male, heterosexual gender minority, or sexual and gender minority adolescents. Conclusions: Findings highlight the importance of identifying and treating family abuse to prevent suicide attempts, particularly among gender and sexual minority adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Brangwin
- Alternative Options Counseling Center, Orange County, California, USA
| | - Zhenqiang Zhao
- Department of Family Studies and Human Development, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | - Maura Shramko
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, Minnesota, USA
| | - Russell B Toomey
- Department of Family Studies and Human Development, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA
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The Role of School and Community Involvement in the Psychosocial Health Outcomes of Black and Latinx LGBTQ Youth. J Adolesc Health 2023; 72:650-657. [PMID: 36599760 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2022.11.010] [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: 01/24/2022] [Revised: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer-identified (LGBTQ) youth of color face poorer psychosocial health outcomes than their non-LGBTQ peers. Research suggests school-based and community activities promote psychosocial health for LGBTQ youth, but study samples are predominantly White. This study tested whether school enrollment and seven community activities were associated with LGBTQ community connectedness, happiness, and health among Black and Latinx LGBTQ youth. METHODS This study used a subsample of Black and Latinx LGBTQ adolescents and young adults (N = 472) from the Social Justice Sexuality project. Mean differences in study variables were examined across intersectional racial/gender identity categories. Multiple regression analyses assessed the association of school enrollment and community activities with psychosocial health outcomes, accounting for covariates. RESULTS Social activities for LGBTQ people (ß = 0.19) and LGBTQ people of color (POC; ß = 0.15) were associated with greater LGBTQ connectedness. While moderate religious services attendance (ß = -0.13) was associated with lower LGBTQ connectedness, high attendance was associated with greater happiness (ß = 0.13) and health (ß = 0.12). Social activities for LGBTQ-POC (ß = 0.13) were also associated with better health. School enrollment was not significantly associated with any outcomes and Latinx transgender and diverse youth had the lowest happiness and health. DISCUSSION Social activities for LGBTQ people and LGBTQ-POC may play a role in the social connectedness and health of Black and Latinx LGBTQ youth, while frequent religious service attendance may support health and happiness. Schools and faith institutions should ensure their institutions are welcoming to LGBTQ youth. Public health workers might facilitate the involvement and inclusion of LGBTQ youth, while policy should support funding for community activities.
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22
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Clark KA, Harvey TD, Hughto JM, Meyer IH. Mental Health Among Sexual and Gender Minority Youth Incarcerated in Juvenile Corrections. Pediatrics 2022; 150:e2022058158. [PMID: 36385576 PMCID: PMC9724172 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2022-058158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study examined differences by sexual and gender minority (SGM) and incarceration statuses in mental health indicators among youth. METHODS Population-based, cross-sectional data are from the 2019 Minnesota Student Survey (N = 72 324) and includes public school students (Mage = 15.49) and youth incarcerated in juvenile correctional facilities (Mage = 15.48). We categorized youth into 4 groups: (1) non-SGM youth in public schools, (2) non-SGM youth in correctional facilities, (3) SGM youth in public schools, and (4) SGM youth in correctional facilities. Multivariable regression models assessed associations among SGM and incarceration statuses and mental health indicators after controlling for sociodemographic characteristics and exposure to adverse childhood experiences. RESULTS More youth in juvenile correctional facilities identified as SGM (28.8%) compared with youth in public schools (20.4%, P = .002). SGM youth in correctional facilities reported a higher prevalence of suicidal ideation (42.2%), suicide attempt (37.5%), and self-harm (57.8%) compared with all other groups. Depressive symptom severity was similarly elevated among SGM youth in correctional facilities and SGM youth in public schools. SGM youth in correctional facilities, compared with non-SGM youth in public schools, demonstrated elevated odds of suicide ideation (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 2.2, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] = 1.3-3.9), suicide attempt (aOR = 6.3, 95% CI = 3.6-10.9), and self-harm (aOR = 3.6, 95% CI = 2.1-6.3). CONCLUSIONS Incarcerated SGM youth disproportionately experience negative mental health indicators. Findings suggest that tailored, intersectional, and responsive mental health interventions are needed to support incarcerated SGM youth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsty A. Clark
- Department of Medicine, Health, and Society, Program in Public Policy Studies
- LGBTQ+ Policy Lab, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Tyler D. Harvey
- SEICHE Center for Health and Justice, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Jaclyn M.W. Hughto
- Departments of Behavioral and Social Sciences, and Epidemiology, School of Public Health
- Center for Health Promotion and Health Equity, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island
| | - Ilan H. Meyer
- Williams Institute, UCLA School of Law, Los Angeles, California
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Kittiteerasack P, Matthews AK, Steffen AD. Loneliness mediates the association of minority stress and depression in sexual and gender minority populations in Thailand. Res Nurs Health 2022; 45:580-591. [DOI: 10.1002/nur.22255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2021] [Revised: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Alicia K. Matthews
- College of Nursing The University of Illinois at Chicago Chicago Illinois USA
| | - Alana D. Steffen
- College of Nursing The University of Illinois at Chicago Chicago Illinois USA
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Kartal E, Demir U, Hekimoglu Y, Keskin S, Asirdizer M. Suicides in Turkey: 25-year trend (1995-2019). J Forensic Sci 2022; 67:1858-1866. [PMID: 35754207 DOI: 10.1111/1556-4029.15086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2022] [Revised: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
The assessment of national suicide risks is considered critical in many countries for the establishment of suicide prevention initiatives aimed at considerably lowering suicide rates. The aim of this study is to identify at-risk suicide populations by reviewing the suicides in Turkey over a 25-year period. The Turkish Statistical Institute's suicide statistics for 1995-2019 in Turkey was retrospectively reviewed in current article. The data collected in the study was statistically analyzed using the MINITAB vn 14 software. Between 1995 and 2019, the total number of suicides in Turkey was 66,819, and suicide rates, especially in males, showed an increasing trend in this period. Males comprised 68.3% of the total cases, and most (27.2%) were aged 15-24 years. Suicides mostly occurred between May and July (27.7%), of individuals with a primary school level of education (51.7%) and who were married (6.0 per 100,000). Illness was most important risk factor for suicide (36.8%) and hanging (47.5%) was the leading suicide method in all age groups and in both genders. Despite the fact that Turkey's suicide rate is lower than many other countries, the growth in male suicide rates is concerning. Suicides are likely to become a severe problem in Turkey in the near future unless measures like education, psychiatric evaluations, the reactivation of psychological counseling service phone lines, and the establishment of youth counseling centers, as described in this paper, are taken.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erhan Kartal
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Medical Faculty of Van Yuzuncu Yil University, Van, Turkey
| | - Ugur Demir
- Forensic Medicine Unit, Tokat State Hospital, Tokat, Turkey
| | - Yavuz Hekimoglu
- Forensic Medicine Unit, Ankara City Hospital, Health Sciences University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Siddik Keskin
- Department of Biostatistics, Medical School of Van Yuzuncu Yil University, Van, Turkey
| | - Mahmut Asirdizer
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Medical School of Bahcesehir University, Istanbul, Turkey
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Li R, Zhan W, Huang X, Zhang Z, Zhou M, Bao W, Huang F, Ma Y. Association of Dietary Inflammatory Index (DII) and depression in the elderly over 55 years in Northern China: analysis of data from a multicentre, cohort study. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e056019. [PMID: 35450904 PMCID: PMC9024263 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-056019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Our study aimed to assess the association between the Dietary Inflammatory Index (DII) and depression in the elderly over 55 years in Northern China. METHODS We analysed the data of 2022 Chinese adults aged 55 and over from a community-based neurological disease cohort study from 2018 to 2019. A validated semiquantitative food frequency questionnaire was used to assess eating habits at the time of inclusion. Multiple logistic regression was used for analysis, and social demographics, lifestyle and health-related factors were adjusted. RESULTS Among the included population, the prevalence of depression was 23.39%. Mean (SD) and range of the DII in the included population were 1.70 (1.42) and -5.20 to +5.68. The risk of depression was significantly higher in participants in the most pro-inflammatory group (quartile 4) than in the participants in the most anti-inflammatory group (quartile 1) (OR 1.53; 1.37 to 1.82; p-trend=0.01). The subgroup analysis of body mass index (BMI) showed that there is a significant association between DII and the risk of depression in overweight and obese people (p<0.05). The restricted cubic spline results show that the OR value of depression possesses an upward trend with the increase of the DII score. CONCLUSIONS Aged patients with depression present a higher potential for dietary inflammation. Pro-inflammatory diets might increase the risk of depressive symptoms. Further research in different populations is crucial to confirm the association between DII and depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruiqiang Li
- Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, School of Public Health, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang City, Hebei, China
| | - Wenqiang Zhan
- School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xin Huang
- Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, School of Public Health, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang City, Hebei, China
| | - Zechen Zhang
- Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, School of Public Health, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang City, Hebei, China
| | - Meiqi Zhou
- Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, School of Public Health, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang City, Hebei, China
| | - Wei Bao
- Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, School of Public Health, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang City, Hebei, China
| | - Feifei Huang
- Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute for Nutrition and Health, Beijing, China
| | - Yuxia Ma
- Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, School of Public Health, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang City, Hebei, China
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Hink AB, Killings X, Bhatt A, Ridings LE, Andrews AL. Adolescent Suicide—Understanding Unique Risks and Opportunities for Trauma Centers to Recognize, Intervene, and Prevent a Leading Cause of Death. CURRENT TRAUMA REPORTS 2022; 8:41-53. [PMID: 35399601 PMCID: PMC8976221 DOI: 10.1007/s40719-022-00223-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Purpose of Review This provides up-to-date epidemiology of adolescent suicide and risk factors for suicide and highlights the overlap of risks for suicide and injury. It reviews signs and symptoms, and the up-to-date evidence on screening for depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), suicide, substance abuse, and lethal means, and offers strategies of implementation in trauma centers. Recent Findings The incidence of adolescent suicide has continued to rise in the USA to 6.5 per 100,000, with notable racial disparities. The risk factors are complex, but many pre-existing risk factors and sequela after injury such as exposures to violence, suicidal behaviors, substance abuse, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder, and specific injuries including traumatic brain injury and spinal cord injury have further emerged as risks. Studies show rates of suicidality as high as 30% in the acute care setting. There are short screening instruments that can be used to universally screen for depression and suicidality in adolescent trauma patients. Step-up models of care for PTSD are promising to increase screening and services after injury. Lethal means counseling, secure firearm storage practices, and firearm safety policies can reduce the risk of suicide. Summary Suicide is the second leading cause of death in US adolescents, and trauma patients have significant risk factors for mental illness and suicidality before and after injury. Trauma centers should strongly consider screening adolescents, establish strategies for mental health support and referrals, and provide lethal means counseling to help prevent suicide.
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Calati R, Romano D, Magliocca S, Madeddu F, Zeppegno P, Gramaglia C. The interpersonal-psychological theory of suicide and the role of psychological pain during the COVID-19 pandemic: A network analysis. J Affect Disord 2022; 302:435-439. [PMID: 35077712 PMCID: PMC8782756 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2022.01.078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Revised: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 10/29/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Among the most investigated theories explaining suicidal behavior there are the interpersonal-psychological theory of suicide (IPTS) by Thomas E. Joiner and the one focused on the construct of psychological pain (or psychache, or mental pain). OBJECTIVE Since it remains unclear whether these two different theories correlate with each other in the explanation of suicidal risk, we used a network analysis approach to investigate the complex interplay between both IPTS and psychological pain theories and history of suicidal planning and/or suicide attempt (SP/SA). METHODS A sample of 1,586 university students from various Italian universities was recruited between April 24th, 2020 and February 23rd, 2021, hence during the COVID-19 pandemic. To be included subjects should have been university students and aged between 18 and 35 years old. RESULTS Within a network that included the core factors from both models (IPTS and psychological pain), higher fearlessness about death (Acquired Capability for Suicide Scale-Fearlessness About Death, ACSS-FAD) and higher psychological pain (Psychache Scale) were the variables most strongly associated with history of SP/SA. CONCLUSIONS Considering a large number of variables, history of SP/SA was explained in particular by fearlessness about death and psychological pain in university students. Hence these aspects should be targeted in the treatment for suicide prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raffaella Calati
- Department of Psychology, University of Milan-Bicocca, U6 Building, Room 3129, Piazza dell'Ateneo Nuovo 1, Milan 20126, Italy; Department of Adult Psychiatry, Nîmes University Hospital, Nîmes, France.
| | - Daniele Romano
- Department of Psychology, University of Milan-Bicocca, U6 Building, Room 3129, Piazza dell'Ateneo Nuovo 1, Milan 20126, Italy,Department of History, Society and Human Studies, University of Salento, Italy
| | - Sara Magliocca
- Department of Psychology, University of Milan-Bicocca, U6 Building, Room 3129, Piazza dell'Ateneo Nuovo 1, Milan 20126, Italy
| | - Fabio Madeddu
- Department of Psychology, University of Milan-Bicocca, U6 Building, Room 3129, Piazza dell'Ateneo Nuovo 1, Milan 20126, Italy
| | - Patrizia Zeppegno
- Institute of Psychiatry, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy,S.C. Psichiatria, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Maggiore della Carità, Novara, Italy
| | - Carla Gramaglia
- Institute of Psychiatry, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy,S.C. Psichiatria, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Maggiore della Carità, Novara, Italy
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Kiekens WJ, Mereish EH. The Association Between Daily Concealment and Affect Among Sexual and Gender Minority Adolescents: The Moderating Role of Family and Peer Support. J Adolesc Health 2022; 70:650-657. [PMID: 34973850 PMCID: PMC9826800 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2021.11.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Revised: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE There is a lack of research on the association between identity concealment and mental health among sexual and gender minority (SGM) adolescents and how social support may attenuate this association. Furthermore, research typically neglects the day-to-day variability in concealment experiences of SGM adolescents. Therefore, we examined the association between daily sexual orientation and gender identity concealment and positive and negative affect and the moderating role of family and peer support on this association among SGM adolescents. METHODS A 21-day daily diary study among 94 SGM adolescents (mean [M] age = 16.10, standard deviation [SD] = 1.50; 31.9% gender minority; 44.7% youth of color) was conducted. Multilevel regression analyses tested the association between daily concealment and positive and negative affect and a cross-level interaction was used to assess the moderating effects of social supports. RESULTS Daily concealment was associated with higher negative but not with positive affect. Family support was associated with lower daily negative affect but not with positive affect. Peer support was not significantly associated with negative or positive affect. Moderation results indicated that the association between daily concealment and negative affect was significant for adolescents who reported low or average levels of family support but was no longer significant for adolescents who reported high levels of family support. DISCUSSION Daily identity concealment was positively associated with negative affect and this association was attenuated by family support. Future research and interventions should target families to improve the lives of SGM adolescents and to help reduce and eliminate mental health disparities.
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Affiliation(s)
- W. J. Kiekens
- Department of Sociology/Interuniversity Center for Social Science Theory and Methodology (ICS), University of Groningen, The Netherlands
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LGBTQ+ Youth's Identity Development in the Context of Peer Victimization: A Mixed Methods Investigation. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19073921. [PMID: 35409603 PMCID: PMC8997505 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19073921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Revised: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Research rarely explores LGBTQ+ youth bullying in the context of culture-specific outcomes (e.g., LGBTQ+ identity development) and what can mitigate the impact of peer stressors. This study used a concurrent mixed methods design to explore how experiences of peer victimization predicted LGBTQ+ youth's identity development (i.e., stigma sensitivity, concealment motivation, and difficult process) and whether social support and outness served as protective, moderating factors. The mixed methods approach provides a culture-specific context via qualitative inquiry to inform whether the quantitative findings align with how youth qualitatively discuss their experience of peer victimization, negative outcomes, and social support. Our sample consisted of 349 LGBTQ+ youth 14-17 years old who completed a survey (quantitative sample) and a subset of 39 LGBTQ+ youth who completed a semi-structured interview (qualitative sample). Our quantitative findings indicated that greater overall peer victimization was positively related to LGBIS-revised subscales of stigma sensitivity, concealment motivation, and difficult process, where both outness and social support moderated such relations. Qualitatively, victimized youth also reported stigma sensitivity and concealment motivation while also endorsing how being out and having a support system played a role in their experience of being victimized. These qualitative findings align with our quantitative findings that classmate support mitigated the effects of peer victimization on the difficulty of coming out. Implications for practitioners and researchers are provided.
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Gerke DR, Call J, Atteberry-Ash B, Katz-Kattari S, Kattari L, Hostetter CR. Alcohol use at the intersection of sexual orientation and gender identity in a representative sample of youth in Colorado. Am J Addict 2021; 31:61-68. [PMID: 34873759 DOI: 10.1111/ajad.13243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Revised: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and questioning (LGBQ) youth are at greater risk of problematic alcohol use than their heterosexual peers, yet there is a dearth of research examining variability in alcohol use among youth that simultaneously accounts for sexual orientation and gender identity. This paper examines the relationship between alcohol use and intersecting identities of sexual orientation and gender while accounting for this population's disproportionate experiences of depression and dating and sexual violence. METHODS The study used a representative sample (n = 27,621) of high school students. Logistic regressions were used to determine if earlier age at first drink, 30-day alcohol use, and binge drinking were significantly related to intersectional sexual orientation and gender identity. Secondary models added depression, dating violence, and sexual violence to analyses to determine if they explained any of the variance in alcohol use variables in LGBQ and transgender youth. RESULTS Transgender youth who identified as heterosexual or questioning their sexual orientation were at greatest risk for early initiation of alcohol use and binge drinking. These relationships between intersectional identity and alcohol use became nonsignificant when depression, dating violence, and sexual violence were added to the models. CONCLUSIONS AND SCIENTIFIC SIGNIFICANCE This is the first study to examine relationships between intersecting identities of sexual orientation and gender identity and alcohol use among youth. Risky alcohol use among transgender youth may be attributed to experiences of depression, dating violence, and sexual violence impacting these populations. Interventions should focus on reducing transgender youth exposure to violence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donald R Gerke
- Graduate School of Social Work, University of Denver, Denver, Colorado, USA
| | - Jarrod Call
- Graduate School of Social Work, University of Denver, Denver, Colorado, USA
| | | | - Shanna Katz-Kattari
- School of Social Work & Department of Women's and Gender Studies, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Leonardo Kattari
- School of Social Work, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - C Riley Hostetter
- Graduate School of Social Work, University of Denver, Denver, Colorado, USA
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Redondo-Sama G, Morlà-Folch T, Burgués A, Amador J, Magaraggia S. Create Solidarity Networks: Dialogs in Reddit to Overcome Depression and Suicidal Ideation among Males. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph182211927. [PMID: 34831681 PMCID: PMC8620618 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182211927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Revised: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The emerging scientific literature examines masculinity and gender roles as risk factors for suicide ideation or suicide in young adults and adolescents. In this vein, recent studies show that certain traditional masculine norms are related to poorer mental health-related outcomes, which influences suicide and suicide ideation. This study contributes with new understandings about the associations between masculinity and suicidal ideation among males through Reddit debates in English. The posts with more interactions referring to masculinity in the topics gender and education have been selected on Reddit, emphasizing transformative personal experiences potentially helping avoid suicide ideation. Through the analysis of Reddit posts, it is shown how users can generate spaces to express the diverse ways to live with masculinity. The discussions on Reddit in the different areas selected demonstrate the existence of proposals on how to overcome fears and facilitate relaxation of norms regarding self-reliance to encourage help-seeking when feeling depressed and therefore at greater risk of suicide ideation. The results highlight the potential importance of platforms such as Reddit to create solidarity networks, showing multiple ways of being a man and demystifying dominant masculinity by sharing different experiences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gisela Redondo-Sama
- Department of Pedagogy, University Rovira i Virgili, 43007 Tarragona, Spain
- Correspondence:
| | - Teresa Morlà-Folch
- Department of Business Management, University Rovira i Virgili, 43204 Reus, Spain;
| | - Ana Burgués
- Department of Sociology, University of Granada, 18001 Granada, Spain;
| | - Jelen Amador
- Department of Sociology, Autonomous University of Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain;
| | - Sveva Magaraggia
- Department of Sociology and Social Research, University of Milan-Bicocca, 20126 Milan, Italy;
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Atteberry-Ash B, Kattari SK, Harner V, Prince DM, Verdino AP, Kattari L, Park IY. Differential Experiences of Mental Health among Transgender and Gender-Diverse Youth in Colorado. Behav Sci (Basel) 2021; 11:48. [PMID: 33918631 PMCID: PMC8069714 DOI: 10.3390/bs11040048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Revised: 03/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Young people experience a variety of mental health concerns, including depression, non-suicidal self-injury, and suicidal ideation. These issues are at even higher rates among transgender and gender-diverse (TGD) young people, due to the additional burden of having to navigate a world in which transphobia impacts them at the individual, organizational, and policy levels. However, much of the extant research focuses only on comparing TGD youth to cisgender counterparts. This study explores the nuance within the TDG youth population regarding mental health, examining how gender, race/ethnicity, and sexual orientation change the likelihood of experiencing each of these mental health concerns. Among a sample of over 400 young people, findings indicate that those TGD young people who do not identify themselves within the masculine/feminine binary and those with marginalized sexual orientations were two to three times more likely to experience adverse mental health outcomes, as compared to their peers who are questioning their gender, and who are heterosexual. The implications for mental health professionals and others who work with young people are to recognize that mental health is not a one-size-fits all model for young TGD people, and that the intersection of multiple marginalized identities, must be addressed in order to improve the mental health of this group of young people. Findings can also be used to better understand issues of stigma, discrimination, and victimization in education, health care, and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brittanie Atteberry-Ash
- School of Social Work, University of Texas Arlington, 211 S Cooper St., Arlington, TX 76019, USA
| | - Shanna K. Kattari
- School of Social Work and College of Literature, Science, and the Arts Department of Women’s and Gender Studies, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA;
| | - Vern Harner
- School of Social Work, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98105, USA;
| | - Dana M. Prince
- The Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel School of Applied Social Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA;
| | - Anthony P. Verdino
- School of Social Service Administration, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA;
| | - Leonardo Kattari
- School of Social Work, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA;
| | - In Young Park
- Graduate School of Social Work, University of Denver, Denver, CO 80208, USA;
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Transphobic Violence in Educational Centers: Risk Factors and Consequences in the Victims’ Wellbeing and Health. SUSTAINABILITY 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/su13041638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
School violence and bullying re worrying problems due to their growing prevalence and severe consequences for adolescent and youth health and wellbeing. Sociocultural factors can contribute to, complicate, and increase the cases of violence in classrooms and spaces related to educational centers. Transphobic violence in this article is defined as the type of violence suffered by transgender and nonbinary adolescents and youth as a manifestation of the problem of discrimination and hate against gender and sexual diversity. This work intends to study the complex sociocultural dynamics of violence detected in educational contexts affecting transgender and nonbinary adolescents and youth identified by recent high- impact studies. At the same time, we aim to fill the gap in the scientific literature on transphobic violence and articulate successful strategies to prevent and combat it. In this review, transphobic violence is defined as the violence affecting transgender adolescents and youth, continuous in time, influenced by peers, and taking place in spaces or realities related to educational centers. The reviewed studies point at the complexity of this kind of violence due to the combination of socio-personal factors and its variety in manifestations. Furthermore, we study the consequences of transphobic violence for the wellbeing and health of transgender and nonbinary adolescents and youth to deepen the knowledge of their mental health repercussions. We end by providing suggestions for how this problem can be prevented in educational environments, grounded on scientific evidence in the materialization of a transformative approach.
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"Constant Stress Has Become the New Normal": Stress and Anxiety Inequalities Among U.S. College Students in the Time of COVID-19. J Adolesc Health 2021; 68:270-276. [PMID: 33288459 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2020.10.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 39.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Revised: 10/23/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study is to document young adults' perceived stress and anxiety in a diverse sample of college students across the U.S. during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS We recruited, via Instagram, a sample of full-time college students aged 18-22 from across the U.S. We surveyed them in April (baseline; N = 707; mean age = 20.0, SD = 1.3) and July (follow-up) 2020. This study presents overall levels of perceived stress and general anxiety symptoms and inequalities across each of these outcomes by gender, sexual orientation, race/ethnicity, and household income. We also explore potential explanations for these health issues by analyzing baseline qualitative data. RESULTS All students, on average, were suffering from perceived stress and anxiety, with especially high levels in April. We also identified inequalities in college student mental well-being, particularly by gender identity and sexual orientation. Women reported worse well-being compared with men; transgender and gender diverse and sexual minority youths reported worse outcomes than their cisgender, heterosexual peers at both time points. Qualitative data illustrate how the COVID-19 pandemic has generated educational, economic, and environmental stressors that are affecting college students' well-being. CONCLUSIONS As colleges and universities think about how to manage and mitigate the infectious disease dimensions of COVID-19 among their student populations, they must also consider who is most at risk for increased stress and anxiety during the pandemic.
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