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Ross MH, Neish C, Setchell J. "It's just as remarkable as being left-handed, isn't it?": exploring normativity through Australian physiotherapists' perspectives of working with LGBTQIA+ patients. Physiother Theory Pract 2024; 40:2309-2320. [PMID: 37519133 DOI: 10.1080/09593985.2023.2241079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Individuals identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, asexual and other related identities (LGBTQIA+) experience challenges with healthcare, including physiotherapy. To understand potential contributions to poor experiences, this study explored physiotherapists' experiences and perspectives about working with members of LGBTQIA+ communities. METHODS This study employed a qualitative research design, suitable for exploring the experiences and perspectives of individuals within the physiotherapy context. The sample consisted of physiotherapists working in Australia who participated in a larger survey study. Data were collected via semi-structured interviews which were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Data analysis was conducted using a relativistic and queer theoretical framework with a reflexive thematic approach. RESULTS Eighteen physiotherapists with diverse sexual orientations participated in the interviews. While all participants identified as women or men, not all used binary gender pronouns. Five key themes were developed: 1) "anti-discrimination" regarding choice of language and providing safe environments; 2) "current and historical discrimination" against LGBTQIA+ individuals; 3) "taking an equality approach" when working with LGBTQIA+ patients; 4) "knowledge of LGBTQIA+ health" in a broad sense and specifically with transgender and gender-diverse people; and 5) "managing own reactions" with respect to individual biases and discomfort. CONCLUSION Underpinning all themes was the overarching concept of cis/hetero/endonormativity. Assuming normativity when working with LGBTQIA+ patients, is likely to have negative effects on patients' mental health, the therapeutic relationship and quality of care. In order to improve diversity, safety, inclusion and equity of care for LGBTQIA+ individuals, it is vital that normativity within physiotherapy is challenged.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan H Ross
- RECOVER Injury Research Centre, University of Queensland, Herston, QLD, Australia
| | - Calum Neish
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Jenny Setchell
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
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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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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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Marquez J, Humphrey N, Black L, Cutts M, Khanna D. Gender and sexual identity-based inequalities in adolescent wellbeing: findings from the #BeeWell Study. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:2211. [PMID: 37946184 PMCID: PMC10636841 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-16992-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gender and sexual minority adolescents experience greater symptoms of psychological distress than their peers, but little is known about broader aspects of their wellbeing. This study examines wellbeing inequalities relating to gender and sexual identity among adolescents from Greater Manchester in the United Kingdom. METHOD 37,978 adolescents (aged 12-15, attending 165 secondary schools) completed surveys of life satisfaction, positive and negative affect (hedonic framework); autonomy, self-esteem, optimism, and positive relationships (eudaimonic framework); and, symptoms of distress and mental wellbeing (complete state framework). Structural correlated factors models were used to assess gender and sexual identity wellbeing inequalities. RESULTS The magnitude of wellbeing inequalities pertaining to gender and sexual identity were routinely substantially greater than those concerning other characteristics (e.g., socio-economic disadvantage). Gender identity wellbeing inequalities followed a consistent pattern, with the largest disparities evident between gender diverse adolescents and boys. Sexual identity wellbeing inequalities also followed a consistent pattern, with the largest disparities evident between sexual minority youth (both gay/lesbian and bi/pansexual) and their heterosexual peers. Finally, variation was evident across wellbeing domains. For example, observed gender identity (boys vs. girls) and sexual identity (heterosexual vs. sexual minority) disparities were substantially greater for symptoms of distress than for mental wellbeing in the complete state model. CONCLUSIONS LGBTQ + adolescents experience lower wellbeing than their peers, and this is evident across a range of wellbeing domains. Accordingly, there is an urgent need for the prioritisation of improved prevention and intervention efforts that can better meet the needs of gender diverse and sexual minority youth, and future research should be conducted to improve understanding of the mechanisms underpinning the wellbeing inequalities observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jose Marquez
- Manchester Institute of Education, University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PL, UK.
| | - Neil Humphrey
- Manchester Institute of Education, University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PL, UK
| | - Louise Black
- Manchester Institute of Education, University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PL, UK
| | - Megan Cutts
- Manchester Institute of Education, University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PL, UK
| | - Devi Khanna
- Manchester Institute of Education, University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PL, UK
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Xu Y, Ma Y, Rahman Q. Comparing asexual with heterosexual, bisexual, and gay/lesbian individuals in common mental health problems: A multivariate meta-analysis. Clin Psychol Rev 2023; 105:102334. [PMID: 37690324 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpr.2023.102334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/03/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
We aimed to test whether asexual individuals were at increased risk of higher levels of depressive symptoms, self-harm attempts, and suicide attempts compared with heterosexual, bisexual, or gay/lesbian individuals using multivariate meta-analysis. Seventeen, five, and eight samples were included for depressive symptoms, self-harm attempts, and suicide attempts, respectively, reaching a total sample size of 125,675, 30,116, and 73,366, respectively. Asexual individuals reported higher levels of depressive symptoms than heterosexual individuals (Hedges' g = -0.44, 95%CI = [-0.61, -0.26]) but did not differ from heterosexual individuals in the risk of self-harm (odds ratio = 1.11, 95%CI = [0.88, 1.39]) and suicide attempts (odds ratio = 0.76, 95%CI = [0.56, 1.04]). Asexual individuals were at lower risk of self-harm and suicide attempts than bisexual and gay/lesbian individuals but did not differ from bisexual and gay/lesbian individuals in the levels of depressive symptoms. The greatest risk of higher levels of depressive symptoms was found in bisexual and asexual, followed by gay/lesbian individuals; the greatest risk of self-harm and suicide attempts was found in bisexual, followed by gay/lesbian individuals, and the lowest risk was found in asexual individuals. The magnitude of the disparities in the risk of poorer mental health among heterosexual, bisexual, gay/lesbian, and asexual individuals depended on the type of mental health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yin Xu
- Department of Sociology & Psychology, School of Public Administration, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
| | - Yidan Ma
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Education Science, Leshan Normal University, Leshan, China; Key Laboratory of Personality and Cognition, Leshan Normal University, Leshan, China
| | - Qazi Rahman
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
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Marino JL, Lin A, Davies C, Kang M, Bista S, Skinner SR. Childhood and Adolescence Gender Role Nonconformity and Gender and Sexuality Diversity in Young Adulthood. JAMA Pediatr 2023; 177:1176-1186. [PMID: 37747725 PMCID: PMC10520839 DOI: 10.1001/jamapediatrics.2023.3873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
Importance Sexuality- and gender-diverse youth experience disproportionate health and social adversity. Accurate early-life indicators are important for development of supportive approaches. Objective To examine whether commonly used items measuring childhood conformity to gender roles are associated with sexual orientation in young adulthood. Design, Setting, and Participants This single-center, prospective cohort study (the Raine Study) assessed 2868 children of 2900 women who were recruited during pregnancy from August 1, 1989, to April 30, 1992, with follow-up ongoing. The Achenbach System of Empirically Based Assessment (ASEBA) Child Behavior Checklist, Teacher Report Form, and Youth Self-Report tools were used to survey parents, teachers, and youths to examine gender diversity among the participating youths. Parents were followed up at years 5, 8, 10, 14, and 17, adolescents at years 14, 17, and 27, and teachers at years 10 and 14. Data were analyzed from August 1, 2020, to July 31, 2023. Exposures Parent and teacher report that a child "behaves like the opposite sex" (gender role behavior), and parent and self-report that a child "wishes to be the opposite sex" (gender role wish), in response to assessment items. Main Outcome Measures Year 27 self-reported sexual identity, attraction, and behavior. Results Of the 2868 children in the original birth cohort, 1154 (40.2%) participated in the year 27 follow-up, of whom 608 (52.7%) were recorded female at birth and 546 (47.3%) were recorded male at birth. Of these, 582 who were recorded female at birth continued to identify as female (cisgender) (95.7%), and 515 recorded male at birth continued to identify as male (cisgender) (94.3%); 47 (4.1%) did not complete the questionnaire. Of cisgender participants, 76 of 605 women (12.6%) and 52 of 540 men (9.6%) had a diverse sexual identity, 204 of 605 women (33.8%) and 77 of 540 men (14.3%) were same-gender attracted, and 100 of 605 women (18.6%) and 39 of 540 men (7.2%) had ever engaged in same-gender sexual behavior. Across all follow-ups, after adjusting for gender, nonconforming gender role behavior was consistently associated with diverse sexual identity and behavior (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] for identity, 2.8; 95% CI, 1.9-4.2; behavior aOR, 2.4; 95% CI, 1.6-3.5). Self-reported gender role wish was consistently associated with diverse sexual orientation (identity aOR, 2.3; 95% CI, 1.4-3.8; attraction aOR, 1.7; 95% CI, 1.1-2.5; behavior aOR, 1.9; 95% CI, 1.2-2.9). Conclusions and Relevance In this cohort study, ASEBA gender role nonconformity was associated with diverse sexual orientation, beginning in early childhood. Findings suggest that the ASEBA measures should not be used to infer sexual orientation or gender diversity in clinical or research settings; asking direct questions may provide more accurate data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L. Marino
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Royal Women’s Hospital and University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Centre for Adolescent Health, Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ashleigh Lin
- Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Cristyn Davies
- Specialty of Child and Adolescent Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Melissa Kang
- Specialty of General Practice, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Sarita Bista
- Specialty of Child and Adolescent Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
| | - S. Rachel Skinner
- Specialty of Child and Adolescent Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
- The Children’s Hospital at Westmead, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
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Willson E, Buono S, Kerr G, Stirling A. Maltreatment experiences and mental health indicators among elite athletes. PSYCHOLOGY OF SPORT AND EXERCISE 2023; 69:102493. [PMID: 37665928 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychsport.2023.102493] [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: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
This study explored the relationships between athletes' experiences of maltreatment and mental health indicators. Canadian National Team athletes completed an online, anonymous survey that assessed reported experiences of maltreatment (psychological, physical, sexual harm and neglect), and mental health indicators of well-being, eating disorders and self-harming behaviours. All forms of maltreatment had a significant, positive correlation with eating disorder and self-harming behaviours, and a negative correlation with well-being. The relationships between maltreatment and mental health indicators differed based on identity characteristics of the athletes. Further work is needed on the prevention and intervention of maltreatment in sport to reduce the behaviours associated with negative health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin Willson
- Faculty of Kinesiology and Physical Education, University of Toronto, 55 Harbord St, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Stephanie Buono
- Ontario Institute for Studies in Education, University of Toronto, 252 Bloor St. W, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Gretchen Kerr
- Faculty of Kinesiology and Physical Education, University of Toronto, 55 Harbord St, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ashley Stirling
- Faculty of Kinesiology and Physical Education, University of Toronto, 55 Harbord St, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Black L, Humphrey N, Marquez J. The influence of minority stress-related experiences on mental wellbeing for trans/gender-diverse and cisgender youth: a comparative longitudinal analysis. ROYAL SOCIETY OPEN SCIENCE 2023; 10:221230. [PMID: 37501657 PMCID: PMC10369031 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.221230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
Trans and gender-diverse (TGD) adolescents are likely to experience poorer mental health and wellbeing than their cisgender peers. Minority stress theory has developed as a possible explanation for some of this disadvantage: factors such as increased bullying and discrimination lead to excess stress and reduced wellbeing. However, the evidence base remains limited. This study drew on secondary data analysis of the #BeeWell longitudinal cohort over 2 years (N = 26 042, aged 12-13 at time one, T1). We report two unregistered hypotheses relating to T1 (autumn 2021) data which was available at the time of stage-one submission: H1, mean differences in T1 wellbeing; H2, mean differences in T1 minority-related stressors. These are followed by two registered hypotheses relating to T2 (autumn 2022) data: H3, replication of T1 mean differences in T2 wellbeing; H4, predictions were made about the strength of the association between T1 minority-related stressors, controlling for sexuality and T2 wellbeing across T1 gender identity groups. At both time points cis-females, TGD and those who preferred not to say their gender had lower wellbeing than cis-males (CM), with the largest effect evident for the TGD group. TGD adolescents also showed the largest disadvantage (mean difference) compared with CM for minority stressors. Counter to H4 and minority stress theory, gender was not found to moderate the effect of minority stressors on later wellbeing. Our findings highlight the vulnerability of the TGD group in terms of wellbeing and minority stressors and are discussed with relevance for policy and future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louise Black
- Manchester Institute of Education, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK
| | - Neil Humphrey
- Manchester Institute of Education, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK
| | - Jose Marquez
- Manchester Institute of Education, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK
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Xu Y, Rahman Q. Sexual orientation disparities in the developmental trajectories of emotional and behavioral difficulties from childhood to early adolescence. J Child Psychol Psychiatry 2022; 63:1505-1512. [PMID: 35253224 DOI: 10.1111/jcpp.13603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and asexual adolescents are at increased risk of poor mental health outcomes but it remains unknown whether this disparity emerges from early childhood and through to adolescence. This study tested sexual orientation disparities in the developmental trajectories of emotional and behavioral difficulties from ages 5 to 14 years, and the influence of early life adversities upon them. METHODS The Millennium Cohort Study, a British birth cohort, was used (4,838 boys and 5,016 girls). Parent-report emotional and behavioral difficulties at ages 5, 7, 11, and 14 were measured using the Strength and Difficulties Questionnaire. Sexual orientation was measured via sexual attraction at age 17. Early life adversities in the first 5 years of life, including parental age at birth, birthweight, duration of breastfeeding, parent-child relationship quality, and parental absence, were collected prospectively. RESULTS Latent growth modeling suggested that, for both sexes, sexual orientation disparities in emotional and behavioral difficulties increased from age 5 to 14 years. Homosexual and bisexual girls displayed significantly greater emotional and behavioral difficulties than heterosexual girls at ages 7, 11, and 14. Homosexual and bisexual boys displayed significantly greater emotional and behavioral difficulties than heterosexual boys at ages 11 and 14. Asexual boys and girls displayed significantly greater emotional and behavioral difficulties than their heterosexual counterparts at all four ages. For both sexes, sexual orientation disparities in emotional and behavioral difficulties only reduced slightly in magnitude after controlling for early life adversities. CONCLUSIONS Sexual minority disparities in emotional and behavioral difficulties increased from childhood to early adolescence, possibly due to the accumulation of susceptibility to minority-related stressors. Sex and early life adversity may contribute to these developmental disparities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yin Xu
- Department of Sociology and Psychology, School of Public Administration, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Qazi Rahman
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
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Xu Y, Montgomery S, Rahman Q. Neuroticism and Sexual Orientation-Based Victimization as Mediators of Sexual Orientation Disparities in Mental Health. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2022; 51:3405-3416. [PMID: 35585371 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-022-02319-2] [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: 12/06/2021] [Revised: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
This study tested whether elevated risk of poorer mental health outcomes among nonheterosexual adolescents compared with heterosexual adolescents is plausibly explained by neuroticism and sexual orientation-based victimization. The Millennium Cohort Study, a large British prospective birth cohort, was used (4566 heterosexual boys, 77 bisexual boys, 129 homosexual boys, 96 asexual boys, 4444 heterosexual girls, 280 bisexual girls, 158 homosexual girls, and 182 asexual girls). We analyzed the following measures assessed at age 17 years: sexual orientation based on sexual attraction, neuroticism, sexual orientation-based victimization, self-harm attempts, and psychological well-being. Mediation analysis was undertaken separately by sex and yielded the following statistically significant findings: for both sexes, we found that bisexual and homosexual adolescents scored higher than heterosexual adolescents on neuroticism; for both sexes, bisexual and homosexual adolescents reported more negative psychological well-being scores and self-harm attempts compared with heterosexual adolescents, with total effects (standardized regression coefficients) ranging from .58 to .91; those associations were mediated through sexual orientation-based victimization and neuroticism scores, with the indirect effects (standardized regression coefficients) through sexual orientation-based victimization and neuroticism scores ranging from .09 to .26 and .16 to .55, respectively. Asexual adolescents did not differ significantly from their heterosexual counterparts in psychological well-being and self-harm attempts, with the total effects ranging from - .02 to .21. Sexual orientation-based victimization and neuroticism may both contribute to the sexual orientation-related disparities in psychological well-being and self-harm attempts. However, neuroticism appears to the more powerful factor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yin Xu
- Department of Sociology & Psychology, School of Public Administration, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, Sichuan, China.
| | - Scott Montgomery
- Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Medical Sciences, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University College London, London, UK
- Clinical Epidemiology Division, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Qazi Rahman
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
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Marchi M, Arcolin E, Fiore G, Travascio A, Uberti D, Amaddeo F, Converti M, Fiorillo A, Mirandola M, Pinna F, Ventriglio A, Galeazzi GM. Self-harm and suicidality among LGBTIQ people: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Int Rev Psychiatry 2022; 34:240-256. [PMID: 36151841 DOI: 10.1080/09540261.2022.2053070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Research evidence has consistently documented a higher risk of suicidality in the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex, and Queer (LGBTIQ) population. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to report a detailed description of research data regarding the risk of Attempted Suicide (SA), Suicide Ideation (SI), and Non-Suicidal Self-Injury (NSSI) behaviours for LGBTIQ people and their subgroups. Medline, Scopus, PsycINFO, and EMBASE were searched for studies reporting a comparative estimation of SA, SI, and NSSI rates among LGBTIQ population and the general population (i.e. heterosexual/cisgender), without restrictions on participants' age and setting for the enrolment. Pooled analyses were based on odds ratios (ORs, with 95% CIs), estimated through inverse variance models with random effects. Fifty studies were selected for the quantitative synthesis and included fifty samples involving 3.735.601 controls and 87.252 LGBTIQ people. LGBTIQ people reported an increased risk of SA (OR:4.36[95%CI:3.32;5.71]), SI (OR:3.76[95%CI:3.02;4.69]), and NSSI (OR:4.24[95%CI:3.23;5.55]). Among LGBTIQ subgroups, the Bisexual group has shown the highest risk of suicidality (SA, OR:6.71; SI, OR:5.04; NSSI, OR: 5.03), followed by the Lesbian-Gay for attempted suicide (SA, OR:6.03), and the Transgender-Intersex-Queer for suicide ideation and non-suicidal self-injury (SI and NSSI, OR:3.42). The quality of the evidence ranged from low to moderate. Our findings have shown that LGBTIQ people report a higher risk of suicidality compared with their cisgender/heterosexual peers. This evidence may contribute to the public awareness on LGBTQI mental health needs and suggest supportive strategies as well as preventive interventions (e.g. supportive programs, counselling, and destigmatizing efforts) as parts of a tailored health-care planning aimed to reduce psychiatric morbidity and mortality in this at-risk population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mattia Marchi
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.,Department of Mental Health and Drug Abuse, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Elisa Arcolin
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Gianluca Fiore
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Antonio Travascio
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Daniele Uberti
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Francesco Amaddeo
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | | | - Andrea Fiorillo
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Massimo Mirandola
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, Infectious Diseases Section, University of Verona, Verona, Italy.,School of Health Sciences, University of Brighton, Brighton, UK
| | - Federica Pinna
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Antonio Ventriglio
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Gian Maria Galeazzi
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.,Department of Mental Health and Drug Abuse, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
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Liu C, Cao W, Meng X, Shen J, Liang X, Guo Y, Tang K. The Role of Interpersonal Relationships and Household Socioeconomic Status in the Association Between Sexual Orientation and Health: A Moderated Mediation Analysis. LGBT Health 2021; 8:554-562. [PMID: 34558972 DOI: 10.1089/lgbt.2020.0320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: Emerging studies indicate that sexual minority youths experience worse health than their heterosexual peers, but few studies have examined the intervening mechanisms linking sexual orientation and health status. This study hypothesizes that interpersonal relationships, moderated by household socioeconomic status (HSES), are important mediators in the association between sexual orientation and health status. Methods: A total of 49,084 youths, consisting of 9499 youths who identified as sexual minority individuals and 39,585 youths who identified as heterosexual, were sampled from a national study on sexual and reproductive health conducted in China. Logistic regression analyses were performed to estimate the association between sexual orientation and self-rated health. Causal mediation and moderated mediation analyses were performed to analyze the mediating and moderating effects of interpersonal relationships and HSES, respectively. Results: Self-rated health was significantly poorer for sexual minority youths compared with heterosexual youths (p < 0.01). From 7.90% to 25.74% of the association between sexual orientation and self-rated health was mediated through poor interpersonal relationships with both parents and peers. A poor relationship with the father accounted for the highest percentage. HSES was found to moderate the mediation effect of interpersonal relationships, with the greatest effect found for sexual minority youths with lower HSES. Conclusion: HSES moderated the indirect effects of interpersonal relationships on the association between sexual orientation and self-rated health. Interventions focused on improving interpersonal relationships for sexual minority youths, especially those with low HSES, merit attention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunyu Liu
- Vanke School of Public Health, Tsinghua University, Beijing, P.R. China.,Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Wenzhen Cao
- Vanke School of Public Health, Tsinghua University, Beijing, P.R. China.,Department of Information Management, Peking University, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Xiangrui Meng
- Vanke School of Public Health, Tsinghua University, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Jiashu Shen
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Xiao Liang
- China Family Planning Association, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Yueping Guo
- School of Journalism and Communication, Graduate School of Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Kun Tang
- Vanke School of Public Health, Tsinghua University, Beijing, P.R. China
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Self-Injurious Thoughts and Behaviors Among Sexual and Gender Minority Youth: a Systematic Review of Recent Research. CURRENT SEXUAL HEALTH REPORTS 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s11930-020-00295-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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14
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Structural stigma and sexual orientation disparities in healthcare use: Evidence from Australian Census-linked-administrative data. Soc Sci Med 2020; 255:113027. [PMID: 32408084 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2020.113027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 04/14/2020] [Accepted: 04/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
This study explores the extent to which structural stigma (which encompasses sociocultural and institutional constraining factors) is associated with sexual orientation disparities in healthcare service and prescription medicine use. Using the responses to the 2017 Australian Marriage Law Postal Survey, we use the regional percentage of votes against legalising same-sex marriage as a measure of structural stigma. We then map these results to Census-linked-administrative data, including 83,519 individuals in same-sex relationships - one of the largest administrative datasets to date where individuals in same-sex relationships are identified. Controlling for regional and individual-level confounders, we find that structural stigma is associated with increased use of nervous system medications (which largely comprise antidepressants) but reduced GP visits for both females and males in same-sex relationships. More regional stigma is also associated with reduced use of pathology services and anti-infective prescriptions for males in same-sex relationships. Altogether, our results suggest that individuals in same-sex relationships living in stigmatised regions are in poorer health but are less likely to access primary healthcare.
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Perales F, Campbell A. Health Disparities Between Sexual Minority and Different-Sex-Attracted Adolescents: Quantifying the Intervening Role of Social Support and School Belonging. LGBT Health 2020; 7:146-154. [PMID: 32155106 DOI: 10.1089/lgbt.2019.0285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: An emerging literature documents that sexual minority youth experience significantly and substantially worse health than their heterosexual peers, but few studies have examined the intervening mechanisms linking adolescents' sexual orientation to their health outcomes. This study hypothesized that social support from parents and friends and school belonging would act as important mediators of this relationship and is among the first to test this proposition empirically. Methods: The analyses used rich data from an Australian national probability sample of 14-15-year olds (Longitudinal Study of Australian Children, n = 3204) and regression models to estimate the associations between sexual attraction and four high-quality indicators of adolescent health/well-being capturing health-related quality of life, socio-emotional functioning, depressive symptoms, and life satisfaction. Mediation tests were subsequently performed to quantify the extent to which three scales capturing social support from parents and friends and school belonging mediated the relationships identified. Results: Sexual minority status, social support from parents and friends, and school belonging were significantly related to all health/well-being outcomes. Sexual minority adolescents reported significantly lower levels of support and belonging. Collectively, the support and belonging variables were responsible for 49%-70% of the associations between sexual minority status and the health/well-being outcomes, with school belonging being the most important mediator. Conclusion: These findings have important implications for health equity policy and practice. They suggest that interventions designed to improve the health/well-being of sexual minority adolescents should be directed at eliciting enhanced social support from families and peers and fostering integration at school. School-based interventions may be particularly fruitful.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Perales
- Institute for Social Science Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Alice Campbell
- Institute for Social Science Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
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Perales F, Campbell A, Johnson S. Mental-health disparities between heterosexual and sexual-minority adolescents: Examining the role of informant discrepancies. J Adolesc 2020; 79:122-127. [PMID: 31954288 DOI: 10.1016/j.adolescence.2020.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2019] [Revised: 01/08/2020] [Accepted: 01/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION An emerging literature documents substantial mental-health disparities by sexual orientation amongst adolescents, with sexual-minority youth exhibiting poorer mental health than heterosexual youth. This brief report provides the first empirical account of how the association between sexual-minority status and adolescent mental health differs depending on who assesses adolescents' mental health (child/mother/father/teacher), and how informant discrepancies in assessments of adolescent mental health differ by adolescents' sexual orientation. METHODS Data come from an Australian national sample of 14-/15-year-old adolescents (Longitudinal Study of Australian Children; n~3,000). Adolescent mental health is measured using multiple measures from the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire, and modelled using multivariable linear regression models. RESULTS Mental-health disparities between sexual-minority and heterosexual adolescents emerged irrespective of who assessed the child's mental health. However, their magnitude varied substantially by informant, being largest when mental-health was reported by adolescents (~0.7 standard deviations) and smallest when reported by teachers (~0.2 standard deviations). Discrepancies between mental-health scores collected from the child and other informants were largest for internalising than externalising behaviours, and in child-father than child-mother comparisons. CONCLUSIONS Understanding informant discrepancies and their meaning is pivotal to designing surveys that generate robust insights into the health of sexual-minority adolescents, as well as appropriate policy interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Perales
- Institute for Social Science Research, The University of Queensland, Long Pocket Precinct, 80 Meiers Rd, Building C, Indooroopilly, Brisbane, QLD, 4068, Australia.
| | - Alice Campbell
- Institute for Social Science Research, The University of Queensland, Long Pocket Precinct, 80 Meiers Rd, Building C, Indooroopilly, Brisbane, QLD, 4068, Australia
| | - Sarah Johnson
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, 15 Hospital Avenue, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia.
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