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Srithumsuk W, Thummapol O, Bhatarasakoon P. Social Determinants of Health Inequities for Older LGBT Adults: A Scoping Review. J Transcult Nurs 2024:10436596241253866. [PMID: 38767232 DOI: 10.1177/10436596241253866] [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: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Despite the research on a health-disparate population, less is known about the social determinants of health (SDOH) inequities among older lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) adults. This scoping review aimed to explore and summarize what is known in the literature regarding the SDOH among older LGBT adults. METHODS The Joanna Briggs Institute's (JBI) approach guided this scoping review, which examined 31 articles that included quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-method studies. Data were analyzed by three independent reviewers through a predesigned process of data charting, descriptive summary, and thematic analysis. RESULTS Older participants were primarily LGBT and LGB. The findings identified four intersecting dimensions of individuals, social, economic, and health care system, contributing to health inequities and poor health outcomes. CONCLUSION Given the importance of SDOH for older LGBT adults, stakeholders including health care providers need to better understand the multiple intersecting influences, provide culturally congruent health care, and integrate sources of support into the care of these sexual- and gender-minority older adults.
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Reczek R, Stacey L, Thomeer MB. Parent-Adult Child Estrangement in the United States by Gender, Race/ethnicity, and Sexuality. JOURNAL OF MARRIAGE AND THE FAMILY 2023; 85:494-517. [PMID: 37304343 PMCID: PMC10254574 DOI: 10.1111/jomf.12898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Objective To provide nationally-representative estimates of parent-adult child estrangement. Background Population-level research is needed on parent-adult child estrangement to understand the full range of family dynamics in the U.S. Method We estimate logistic regression models using data from the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth 1979 Child and Young Adult supplement to determine estimates of estrangement (and subsequent unestrangement) from mothers (N=8,495) and fathers (N=8,119) by children's gender, race/ethnicity, and sexuality. We then estimate hazards of first estrangement from mothers (N = 7,919) and fathers (N = 6,410), adjusting for adult child's and parents' social and economic characteristics. Results Six percent of respondents report a period of estrangement from mothers, with an average age of first maternal estrangement of 26 years old; 26 percent of respondents report estrangement from fathers, with an average age of first paternal estrangement of 23 years old. Results further show heterogeneity by gender, race/ethnicity, and sexuality; for example, daughters are less likely to be estranged from their mothers than are sons, Black adult children are less likely than White adult children to be estranged from their mothers but more likely to be estranged from fathers, and gay, lesbian, and bisexual adult children are more likely than heterosexuals to be estranged from fathers. The majority of estranged adult children become unestranged from mothers (81%) and fathers (69%) in subsequent waves. Conclusion This study provides compelling new evidence on an overlooked aspect of intergenerational relationships, concluding with insight into the structural forces that unequally contribute to estrangement patterns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rin Reczek
- Department of Sociology, The Ohio State University
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Abstract
OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study was to explore the impacts of sexual stigma experiences on the mental health of older gay and bisexual men in Portugal. METHODS Self-identified older gay and bisexual men (n = 210) between 50 and 80 years old (mean age = 60.03; SD = 6.33) participated in this study. Measurement instruments included a sociodemographic questionnaire, the Brief Symptom Inventory-18, measures of suicidal ideation and intention, and the Sexual Stigma Scale. RESULTS Older gay and bisexual men with higher levels of sexual stigma presented significantly higher anxiety, depression, somatization, and suicidal ideation scores. Correlational analyses showed significant correlations among mental health variables and sexual stigma variables. Regression analyses showed that sexual stigma explained 11% of anxiety symptoms, 10% of depression symptoms, and 9% of somatization symptoms. DISCUSSION Sexual stigma has a negative impact on older gay and bisexual men's mental health. Mental health professionals should be aware of how sexual stigma affects sexual minority men's quality of life and work toward the reduction/elimination of sexual stigma in society.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henrique Pereira
- Department of Psychology and Education, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal.,The Research Center in Sports Sciences, Health Sciences and Human Development (CIDESD), Vila Real, Portugal
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4
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Oglesby MH, Hynes SM. Developing consensus-based recommendations for the delivery of dementia services for the LGBTQIA+ community in the Republic of Ireland. HRB Open Res 2022. [DOI: 10.12688/hrbopenres.13505.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The number of older LGBTQIA+ adults is set to rise significantly in the coming years. The rising numbers sit together with the rise in the number of people in Ireland diagnosed with dementia. In Ireland, no dementia-specific services exist for people from the LGBTQIA+ community. The aim of this research was to 1) identify the future needs that older LGTBQIA+ people and their care partners living in Ireland have in relation to dementia care service delivery; and to 2) develop consensus-based recommendations for dementia service provision in Ireland. Methods: A six-phase consensus process was used to develop the lists of needs and recommendations: 1) development; 2) national survey; 3) interviews with key stakeholders; 4) international review of best practice; 5) consensus meeting; 6) final member checking. Participants, aged over 50, were based in Ireland, identified as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community or supported someone who is/was. Results: Results are reported from the survey (n=49), individual interviews (n=8), and the consensus meeting (n=10). Participants have concerns related to identity management and suppression, creating an LGBTQIA+ affirmative ethos and workforce, and respect and safety. From the results and consensus process, a full list of ten prioritised needs and recommendations have been developed that focus specifically on dementia care in Ireland for the LGBTQIA+ community. Conclusion: The older LGBTQIA+ community has identified essential priorities for improving healthcare access and safety. These priorities now need to be urgently implemented into clinical and dementia care services.
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Lyons A, Hill AO, McNair R, Carman M, Morris S, Bourne A. Demographic and psychosocial factors associated with recent suicidal ideation and suicide attempts among lesbian, gay, bisexual, pansexual, queer, and asexual (LGBQ) people in Australia: Correlates of suicidality among LGBQ Australians. J Affect Disord 2022; 296:522-531. [PMID: 34606809 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2021.09.105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Revised: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION To examine demographic and psychosocial correlates of suicidal ideation and suicide attempts among a large cross-section of sexual orientation populations in Australia, including lesbian, gay, bisexual, pansexual, queer, and asexual (LGBQ) people. METHODS A national survey was conducted involving 5,174 cisgender LGBQ participants aged 18+ years. Multivariable regressions identified factors associated with recent suicidal ideation and suicide attempts. RESULTS In all, 37.2% reported suicidal ideation and 3.9% a suicide attempt in the past 12 months. The likelihood of suicidal ideation was greater for those who identified as queer or felt treated unfairly or socially excluded due to their sexual orientation, and lower for those in a committed relationship, who felt part of LGBTIQ communities, or felt accepted in family, work, and health services. The likelihood of suicide attempts was greater for those aged younger or had recently experienced verbal abuse or social exclusion, and lower for those in a committed relationship or who felt part of LGBTIQ communities. LIMITATIONS Participants were recruited largely through paid Facebook advertising and the sample may therefore not be representative of all LGBQ adults in Australia. However, a representative population-level study would require the collection of population demographic data to provide the necessary and sexual identity is not included in the Australian Census. CONCLUSION These findings highlight an urgent need for supporting LGBQ people and may help inform tailored support services, including culturally-safe suicide prevention programs. These could involve peer support, trauma-informed counselling, supporting committed relationships, and addressing marginalization in the wider community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony Lyons
- Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Adam O Hill
- Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia.
| | - Ruth McNair
- Department of General Practice, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Marina Carman
- Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Sally Morris
- Australian Institute for Suicide Research and Prevention, Griffith University, Mount Gravatt, Australia
| | - Adam Bourne
- Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia; Kirby Institute, UNSW, Sydney, Australia
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6
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Cronin TJ, Pepping CA, Halford WK, Lyons A. Minority Stress and Psychological Outcomes in Sexual Minorities: The Role of Barriers to Accessing Services. JOURNAL OF HOMOSEXUALITY 2021; 68:2417-2429. [PMID: 32815799 DOI: 10.1080/00918369.2020.1804264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) individuals are at higher risk for poor mental health than their heterosexual counterparts, and these disparities are largely accounted for by minority stressors. Less is known about the mechanisms underlying associations between minority stress and mental health. In a sample of 592 LGB adults (Mage = 29.39), we tested a model in which minority stress (internalized stigma, stigma consciousness, and lived discrimination) was associated with poor mental health when mediated by stigma-related barriers to accessing psychological services. Structural equation modeling revealed that minority stressors predicted more barriers to service use which, in turn, predicted poorer mental health outcomes. Internalized stigma was also directly associated with poor mental health. Results suggest that links between minority stress and poorer mental health in LGB individuals are at least partly explained by stigma-related barriers to accessing services. Future research is needed to investigate methods which may ameliorate these barriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy J Cronin
- School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | | | - W Kim Halford
- School of Psychology, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Anthony Lyons
- Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health, and Society, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
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Henderson ER, Egan JE, Haberlen SA, Detels R, Teplin LA, Friedman MR, Plankey MW, Coulter RWS. Does Social Support Predict Depressive Symptoms? A Longitudinal Study of Midlife and Older Men Who Have Sex with Men from the Multicenter AIDS Cohort Study. ANNALS OF LGBTQ PUBLIC AND POPULATION HEALTH 2021; 2:142-160. [PMID: 34778872 DOI: 10.1891/lgbtq-2020-0042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The present study was designed to identify social support classes across time among midlife (40-64 years) and older (65+ years) gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (MSM), and whether social support protects against depressive symptoms in this population. This study applied longitudinal latent class analysis across five visits on 1,329 individuals age 40 or older at baseline using data from the Multicenter AIDS Cohort Study (MACS) Healthy Aging substudy collected from April 2016 to October 2018. We identified four classes of social support across time: Partner-centered, that is, high levels of support from one's primary partner(s) and moderate support from friends and family; Friend-centered, that is, high levels of support from friends and chosen family; Low, that is, low levels of support from all sources; and Robust, that is, high levels of support from all sources. We found differences in class membership by age, race/ethnicity, employment status, sexual identity, education, relationship status, and HIV status. Finally, compared to MSM in the low support class, men in the other classes had lower odds of depressive symptoms at the final visit. The most common type of social support was partner-centered, while the least common type was robust. These findings suggest that the presence of any social support, regardless of the source, protects against depressive symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmett R Henderson
- University of Pittsburgh, Department of Behavioral and Community Health Sciences, Graduate School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.,University of Pittsburgh, Center for LGBT Health Research, Graduate School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - James E Egan
- University of Pittsburgh, Department of Behavioral and Community Health Sciences, Graduate School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.,University of Pittsburgh, Center for LGBT Health Research, Graduate School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Sabina A Haberlen
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Roger Detels
- UCLA Fielding School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Linda A Teplin
- Feinberg School of Medicine, Departments of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences and Medicine, Infectious Diseases, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - M Reuel Friedman
- University of Pittsburgh, Center for LGBT Health Research, Graduate School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.,University of Pittsburgh, Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, Graduate School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Michael W Plankey
- Georgetown University Medical Center, Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Robert W S Coulter
- University of Pittsburgh, Department of Behavioral and Community Health Sciences, Graduate School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.,University of Pittsburgh, Center for LGBT Health Research, Graduate School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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Pereira H, Silva P. The Importance of Social Support, Positive Identity, and Resilience in the Successful Aging of Older Sexual Minority Men. Geriatrics (Basel) 2021; 6:geriatrics6040098. [PMID: 34698189 PMCID: PMC8544553 DOI: 10.3390/geriatrics6040098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Revised: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between social support, positive identity, and resilience and the successful aging of older sexual minority men. The study involved having 210 self-identified gay and bisexual men aged between 50 and 80 years complete a cross-sectional online survey comprised of sociodemographic information; the Portuguese version of the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support; the Lesbian, Gay, and multifactor Bisexual Positive Identity Measure; the Connor–Davidson Resilience Scale 10; and the Successful Aging Perceptions Scale. The results showed that self-identified gay participants showed higher levels of positive identity, while bisexual participants scored higher for resilience, mental health, and successful aging. Higher levels of social support, resilience, and positive identity were significant predictors of mental health (28%), physical health (18%), and successful aging (10%) in our sample. These results offer similarities with the growing body of literature on the positive factors of successful aging in the gay and bisexual men communities, which is an important step in the development of aging and health preventive initiatives among this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henrique Pereira
- Department of Psychology and Education, Faculty of Social and Human Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Pólo IV, 6200-209 Covilhã, Portugal;
- Research Centre in Sports Sciences, Health Sciences and Human Development (CIDESD), 5001-801 Vila Real, Portugal
- Correspondence:
| | - Patrícia Silva
- Department of Psychology and Education, Faculty of Social and Human Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Pólo IV, 6200-209 Covilhã, Portugal;
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Temple JB, Brijnath B, Enticott J, Utomo A, Williams R, Kelaher M. Discrimination reported by older adults living with mental health conditions: types, contexts and association with healthcare barriers. Soc Psychiatry Psychiatr Epidemiol 2021; 56:1003-1014. [PMID: 32696302 DOI: 10.1007/s00127-020-01914-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2019] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Australian policy-making needs better information on the prevalence, context and types of discrimination reported by people living with mental health conditions and the association of exposure to discrimination with experiencing a barrier to accessing healthcare. METHODS Secondary data analysis using the national representative General Social Survey 2014 to examine discrimination and healthcare barriers. Multivariable logistic regression was used to examine the association between discrimination and barriers to healthcare. RESULTS Around 10% of older adults without mental health conditions reported an instance of discrimination in the last 12 months, compared to 22-25% of those with mental health conditions. Approximately 20% with mental health conditions attributed discrimination to their health conditions, along with other characteristics including age. Discrimination was reported in settings important to human capital (e.g., healthcare, workplace), but also in general social and public contexts. Everyday discrimination (OR = 2.11 p < 0.001), discrimination in healthcare (OR = 2.92 p < 0.001), and discrimination attributed to the person's health condition (OR = 1.99 p < 0.05) increased the odds of experiencing a barrier to care two-to-three-fold. For each type of discrimination reported (e.g., racism, ageism etc.), the odds of experiencing a barrier to care increased 1.3 times (OR = 1.29 p < 0.01). CONCLUSION This new population-level evidence shows older adults with mental health conditions are experiencing discrimination at more than twofold compared to those without mental health conditions. Discrimination was associated with preventing or delaying healthcare access. These findings indicate that future strategies to promote mental healthcare in underserved groups of older people will need to be multidimensional and consideration given to address discrimination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeromey B Temple
- Demography and Ageing Unit, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Bianca Brijnath
- Social Gerontology, National Ageing Research Institute (NARI), Parkville, Australia.
| | - Joanne Enticott
- Monash Centre for Health Research and Implementation, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
- Southern Synergy, Department of Psychiatry, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Ariane Utomo
- School of Geography, Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Ruth Williams
- Centre for Health Policy, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Margaret Kelaher
- Centre for Health Policy, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
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Lagana` L, Balian OA, Nakhla MZ, Zizumbo J, Greenberg S. A preliminary model of health regarding sexual and ethnic minority older adults. CULTURE, HEALTH & SEXUALITY 2021; 23:333-348. [PMID: 32133922 PMCID: PMC7773154 DOI: 10.1080/13691058.2019.1710566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2018] [Accepted: 12/27/2019] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Older individuals with sexual/gender minority and minority racial/ethnic identities typically face unique challenges, along with opportunities to overcome these obstacles. Published studies on the difficulties faced by sexual and gender minorities are available; however, research on older adults with both racial/ethnic minority and sexual and gender minority identities is rarer. These individuals must confront various forms of discrimination related to ageism, homophobia and racism. Resilience likely plays a role in the ability to manage and survive multiple challenges and discriminatory experiences, yet targeted research on these populations is lacking. This paper offers a preliminary model that incorporates prevalent threats to these populations' well-being and their deleterious psychosocial correlates, especially, whenever available, the unique challenges that older individuals must face when age, sexual orientation and race/ethnicity intersect. Recommendations are made to optimise the expansion and empirical testing of this preliminary model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luciana Lagana`
- Department of Psychology, California State University Northridge, CA, USA
| | - Ovsanna A. Balian
- Doctoral Program in Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, USA
| | - Marina Z. Nakhla
- Joint Doctoral Program in Clinical Psychology, San Diego State University/University of California, San Diego (SDSU/UCSD), San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Juan Zizumbo
- Department of Psychology, California State University Northridge, CA, USA
| | - Shayna Greenberg
- Department of Psychology, California State University Northridge, CA, USA
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11
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Lyons A, Alba B, Waling A, Minichiello V, Hughes M, Fredriksen-Goldsen KI, Edmonds S, Blanchard M, Irlam C. Volunteering among Older Lesbian and Gay Adults: Associations with Mental, Physical and Social Well-Being. J Aging Health 2020; 33:3-13. [PMID: 32857633 DOI: 10.1177/0898264320952910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Objectives: Volunteering is associated with positive well-being among older people, providing opportunities to stay active and socially connected. This may be especially relevant for older lesbian and gay people, who are less likely than heterosexual people to have a partner, children or support from their family of origin. Methods: Patterns of volunteering and mental, physical and social well-being were examined in a sample of 754 lesbian and gay adults in Australia aged 60 years and older who completed a nationwide survey. Results: Volunteers reported greater positive mental health than non-volunteers. Among the gay men, volunteers additionally reported higher self-rated health and social support and lower psychological distress. Both the lesbian women and gay men who volunteered for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or intersex (LGBTI) organisations also reported greater LGBTI community connectedness than volunteers for non-LGBTI organisations. Discussion: These findings provide further insight into potential factors associated with the well-being of older lesbian and gay adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony Lyons
- Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society; School of Psychology and Public Health, 2080La Trobe University, Australia
| | - Beatrice Alba
- Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society; School of Psychology and Public Health, 2080La Trobe University, Australia.,School of Psychology, 2104Deakin University, Australia
| | - Andrea Waling
- Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society; School of Psychology and Public Health, 2080La Trobe University, Australia
| | - Victor Minichiello
- Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society; School of Psychology and Public Health, 2080La Trobe University, Australia.,School of Justice, Faculty of Law, 1969Queensland University of Technology, Australia
| | - Mark Hughes
- School of Arts and Social Sciences, 4571Southern Cross University, Australia
| | | | | | - Michelle Blanchard
- 104504SANE Australia, Australia.,Anne Deveson Research Centre, Australia.,Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences, University of Melbourne, Australia
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12
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Stinchcombe A, Hammond NG, Wilson K. Differential Effects of Social Support by Sexual Orientation: A Study of Depression Symptoms Among Older Canadians in the CLSA. Res Aging 2020; 42:251-261. [DOI: 10.1177/0164027520923111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
This study examined differences in symptoms of mental illness, specifically depression, by sexual orientation and examined the protective role of social support among lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) older Canadians. Data were drawn from the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging, a national study of adults aged 45–85 years at baseline ( n = 46,157). We examined whether the effect of sexual orientation on depression symptoms was moderated by four types of social support: emotional/informational support, affectionate support, tangible support, and positive social interaction. LGB identification was associated with increased depression symptoms relative to heterosexual participants. After adjustment for covariates, bisexual identity remained a significant predictor of depression symptoms. Low emotional/informational social support was associated with increased depression symptoms, an effect that was most pronounced for lesbian and gay participants. The findings contribute to the growing body of research on the mental health of older LGB people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arne Stinchcombe
- Department of Recreation and Leisure Studies, Brock University, St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada
| | - Nicole G. Hammond
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kimberley Wilson
- Department of Family Relations and Applied Nutrition, University of Guelph, Ontario, Canada
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13
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Carter MM, Sbrocco T, Alexander T, Tang D, Carter CG. Implicit Association Task and Perception of Homosexuality: Differences between African American and Non-Hispanic Caucasian Homosexual Males. JOURNAL OF HOMOSEXUALITY 2020; 67:1238-1260. [PMID: 30907300 DOI: 10.1080/00918369.2019.1585728] [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: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
This study investigated the relationship between sexual orientation and minority group membership in a sample of African American and non-Hispanic Caucasian (NHC) homosexual men. Participants competed measures of pathology, sexual orientation, and ethnic identity. They completed two IATs, one using homosexual symbols and the other ethnically diverse homosexual images. Results indicated that African American participants reported more ethnic and sexual orientation discriminatory experiences than NHC. It was also found that both groups exhibited a positive association toward gay symbols. Both groups also demonstrated a bias toward NHC homosexual images, although the bias was stronger for NHC participants. Moderation analyses indicated that as internalized homophobia increased, preference for gay NHC images decreased, and that high ethnically discriminatory experiences resulted in stronger associations between NHC images and "good" attributes. Overall, the results partially support the minority stress theory and highlight some important differences between African American and NHC homosexual men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele M Carter
- Department of Psychology, American University , Washington, DC, USA
| | - Tracy Sbrocco
- Department of Psychology, Uniformed University of the Health Sciences , Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | | | - Dickson Tang
- Department of Psychology, American University , Washington, DC, USA
| | - Cherie G Carter
- School of Dramatic Arts, University of Southern California , Los Angeles, California, USA
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14
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Gato J, Leal D, Coimbra S, Tasker F. Anticipating Parenthood Among Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Heterosexual Young Adults Without Children in Portugal: Predictors and Profiles. Front Psychol 2020; 11:1058. [PMID: 32587545 PMCID: PMC7298073 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.01058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2020] [Accepted: 04/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Parenthood is a highly valued life goal, independent of one’s sexual orientation. However, the majority of studies exploring young adults’ parenthood plans have relied exclusively on samples of heterosexual individuals. This study aimed (i) to explore differences in parenthood intentions as a function of sexual orientation, (ii) to investigate to what extent sociodemographic and psychological characteristics predict parenthood intentions of lesbian, gay, bisexual (LGB), and heterosexual individuals, (iii) to test the mediating effect of stigma between sexual orientation and parenthood intentions, and (iv) to identify and characterize profiles of prospective parenthood (through cluster analysis). Data were gathered using an online survey from 375 self-identified LGB and heterosexual young adults without children in Portugal, with a mean age of 25.83 years old (SD = 4.49). Findings indicated that LGB individuals were less likely to intend to have children than heterosexual individuals; furthermore, among LGB individuals, lesbian women expressed stronger intentions to have children than did gay men. Similarities between heterosexual and LGB young adults were observed concerning the psychological determinants of parenthood intentions. Four distinctive profiles of prospective parenthood were identified: aspiring parents not anticipating stigma, aspiring parents anticipating stigma, childfree intent, and childfree ambivalent. Lesbian and bisexual women mostly populated the childfree ambivalent cluster; in contrast, the aspiring parents anticipating stigma cluster contained an overrepresentation of men, including sexual minority men. Professionals may want to attend to communalities and specificities of prospective parenthood as a function of sexual orientation, in order to provide unbiased and culturally competent support to sexual minority individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Gato
- Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Daniela Leal
- Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Susana Coimbra
- Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Fiona Tasker
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Birkbeck, University of London, London, United Kingdom
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15
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Gato J, Leal D, Coimbra S, Tasker F. Anticipating Parenthood Among Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Heterosexual Young Adults Without Children in Portugal: Predictors and Profiles. Front Psychol 2020. [PMID: 32587545 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.01058/bibtex] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Parenthood is a highly valued life goal, independent of one's sexual orientation. However, the majority of studies exploring young adults' parenthood plans have relied exclusively on samples of heterosexual individuals. This study aimed (i) to explore differences in parenthood intentions as a function of sexual orientation, (ii) to investigate to what extent sociodemographic and psychological characteristics predict parenthood intentions of lesbian, gay, bisexual (LGB), and heterosexual individuals, (iii) to test the mediating effect of stigma between sexual orientation and parenthood intentions, and (iv) to identify and characterize profiles of prospective parenthood (through cluster analysis). Data were gathered using an online survey from 375 self-identified LGB and heterosexual young adults without children in Portugal, with a mean age of 25.83 years old (SD = 4.49). Findings indicated that LGB individuals were less likely to intend to have children than heterosexual individuals; furthermore, among LGB individuals, lesbian women expressed stronger intentions to have children than did gay men. Similarities between heterosexual and LGB young adults were observed concerning the psychological determinants of parenthood intentions. Four distinctive profiles of prospective parenthood were identified: aspiring parents not anticipating stigma, aspiring parents anticipating stigma, childfree intent, and childfree ambivalent. Lesbian and bisexual women mostly populated the childfree ambivalent cluster; in contrast, the aspiring parents anticipating stigma cluster contained an overrepresentation of men, including sexual minority men. Professionals may want to attend to communalities and specificities of prospective parenthood as a function of sexual orientation, in order to provide unbiased and culturally competent support to sexual minority individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Gato
- Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Daniela Leal
- Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Susana Coimbra
- Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Fiona Tasker
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Birkbeck, University of London, London, United Kingdom
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Metheny N, Stephenson R. Political Environment and Perceptions of Social Inclusion After Nationwide Marriage Equality Among Partnered Men Who Have Sex with Men in the USA. SEXUALITY RESEARCH & SOCIAL POLICY : JOURNAL OF NSRC : SR & SP 2019; 16:521-528. [PMID: 31798756 PMCID: PMC6889050 DOI: 10.1007/s13178-018-0357-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this paper is to examine how nationwide marriage equality and minority stressors are associated with perceptions of social inclusion using a national sample of partnered men who have sex with men (MSM)(n=498). A four-item scale measuring changes in perceived social inclusion due to the nationwide legalization of same-sex marriage was created. Respondents were categorized into four distinct political environments using results from the 2016 US Presidential election. Multilevel modeling was used to examine associations between political environment, minority stressors, and perceived social inclusion. Changes in perceived social inclusion due to marriage equality did not significantly differ between political environments. Higher levels of internalized, anticipated, and enacted stigma were all associated with fewer gains in perceived social inclusion. An interaction between political environment and external stigma was significant in the most politically conservative areas. The legalization of marriage equality has improved perceived social inclusion overall, but less so among men who experience more discrimination and live in conservative environments. Multilevel interventions to change social norms are needed to help decrease minority stressors and improve perceived social inclusion in politically conservative areas with elevated levels of discrimination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas Metheny
- University of Michigan School of Nursing, Ann Arbor, MI,
USA
- University of Michigan Center for Sexuality and Health
Disparities, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Rob Stephenson
- University of Michigan School of Nursing, Ann Arbor, MI,
USA
- University of Michigan Center for Sexuality and Health
Disparities, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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17
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Salfas B, Rendina HJ, Parsons JT. What is the Role of the Community? Examining Minority Stress Processes among Gay and Bisexual Men. STIGMA AND HEALTH 2019; 4:300-309. [PMID: 31485482 PMCID: PMC6724721 DOI: 10.1037/sah0000143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Gay and bisexual men suffer from higher rates of mental health disorders than their heterosexual counterparts. Minority stress theory provides the framework for much research that seeks to explain this discrepancy. Recently, several studies have also examined the role of connection with the gay community with mixed results. Operationalizing gay community connectedness in terms of two separate constructs-community involvement and community identification-this study sought to examine and compare the role that each of these factors plays in affecting gay and bisexual men's mental health. We analyzed data from 371 gay and bisexual men in New York City, focusing on measures of minority stress factors, gay community connectedness, and mental health outcomes. As hypothesized, factor analysis showed that the community connectedness scale loaded onto two sub-factors corresponding to the theorized constructs of identification and involvement. Linear regression models adjusting for potential confounding factors showed that community involvement was significantly associated with better mental health outcomes. Community involvement also significantly moderated the impact of internalized homonegativity on mental health. This factor was not a significant moderator of the impact of sexual orientation discrimination on mental health, and community identification was not significantly associated with mental health outcomes. It also did not significantly moderate the effect of either minority stress factor. Future research would benefit from developing an updated and highly reliable measure of community involvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian Salfas
- The Center for HIV/AIDS Educational Studies & Training (CHEST), Hunter College of the City University of New York (CUNY), New York, NY
| | - H Jonathon Rendina
- The Center for HIV/AIDS Educational Studies & Training (CHEST), Hunter College of the City University of New York (CUNY), New York, NY
- Department of Psychology, Hunter College of the City University of New York (CUNY), New York, NY
- Health Psychology and Clinical Science Doctoral Program, The Graduate Center of the City University of New York (CUNY), New York, NY
| | - Jeffrey T Parsons
- The Center for HIV/AIDS Educational Studies & Training (CHEST), Hunter College of the City University of New York (CUNY), New York, NY
- Department of Psychology, Hunter College of the City University of New York (CUNY), New York, NY
- Health Psychology and Clinical Science Doctoral Program, The Graduate Center of the City University of New York (CUNY), New York, NY
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18
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Leal D, Gato J, Coimbra S. How does sexual orientation influence intergenerational family solidarity? An exploratory study. J Prev Interv Community 2019; 48:382-393. [DOI: 10.1080/10852352.2019.1627081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Leal
- Faculdade de Psicologia e de Ciências da Educação, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Jorge Gato
- Faculdade de Psicologia e de Ciências da Educação, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Susana Coimbra
- Faculdade de Psicologia e de Ciências da Educação, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
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Li C, Jiang S, Zhang X. Intergenerational relationship, family social support, and depression among Chinese elderly: A structural equation modeling analysis. J Affect Disord 2019; 248:73-80. [PMID: 30716614 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2019.01.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2018] [Revised: 08/13/2018] [Accepted: 01/26/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to investigate the association among intergenerational relationship, family social support, and elderly's depression symptoms. METHOD Data were obtained from China Longitudinal Aging Social Survey (CLASS) 2014, which is a continuous large-scale national social survey project conducted by the National Survey Research Center at Renmin University of China. Stratified multi-stage probability sampling method was used to collect the sample (N = 11,511). Structural equation modeling was adopted to analyze the association among intergenerational relationship, family social support, and elderly's depression. RESULTS Intergenerational relationship and family social support were negatively correlated with an elderly's depression level. Elderly who enjoyed positive intergenerational relationships with their children would experience adequate family social support and likely have few depression symptoms. CONCLUSION Intergenerational relationship directly affected the elderly's depression level. Family social support played a mediating role between intergenerational relationship and depression. Our findings could contribute to current theories and knowledge and provide implications in social policy, pension service, and social work intervention for the elderly in China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunkai Li
- School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.
| | - Shan Jiang
- School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xinwen Zhang
- School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
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Shenkman G, Ifrah K, Shmotkin D. The association between negative attitudes toward aging and mental health among middle-aged and older gay and heterosexual men in Israel. Aging Ment Health 2018; 22:503-511. [PMID: 28067548 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2016.1274374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The association between negative attitudes toward aging and mental health (indicated by depressive symptoms, neuroticism, and happiness) was explored among Israeli middle-aged and older gay and heterosexual men. METHOD In a community-dwelling sample, 152 middle-aged and older gay men and 120 middle-aged and older heterosexual men at the age range of 50-87 (M = 59.3, SD = 7.5) completed measures of negative attitudes toward aging, depressive symptoms, neuroticism, and happiness. RESULTS After controlling for socio-demographic characteristics, the association between negative attitudes toward aging and mental health was moderated by sexual orientation, demonstrating that negative attitudes toward aging were more strongly associated with adverse mental health concomitants among middle-aged and older gay men compared to middle-aged and older heterosexual men. CONCLUSIONS The findings suggest vulnerability of middle-aged and older gay men to risks of aging, as their mental health is markedly linked with their negative attitudes toward aging. This vulnerability should be addressed by clinicians and counselors who work with middle-aged and older gay men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geva Shenkman
- a School of Psychology , Interdisciplinary Center (IDC) , Herzliya.,b Sheba Medical Center , Tel Hashomer , Israel
| | - Kfir Ifrah
- c School of Psychological Sciences and Herczeg Institute on Aging, Tel Aviv University , Tel Aviv , Israel
| | - Dov Shmotkin
- c School of Psychological Sciences and Herczeg Institute on Aging, Tel Aviv University , Tel Aviv , Israel
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21
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Guo C, Tomson G, Keller C, Söderqvist F. Prevalence and correlates of positive mental health in Chinese adolescents. BMC Public Health 2018; 18:263. [PMID: 29454315 PMCID: PMC5816379 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-018-5133-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2017] [Accepted: 01/31/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies investigating the prevalence of positive mental health and its correlates are still scarce compared to the studies on mental disorders, although there is growing interest of assessing positive mental health in adolescents. So far, no other study examining the prevalence and determinants of positive mental health in Chinese adolescents has been found. The purpose of this study was to assess the prevalence and correlates of positive mental health in Chinese adolescents. METHODS This cross-sectional study used a questionnaire including Mental Health Continuum-Short Form (MHC-SF) and items regarding multiple aspects of adolescent life. The sample involved a total of 5399 students from grade 8 and 10 in Weifang, China. Multivariate Logistic regression analyses were performed to evaluate the associations between potential indicators regarding socio-economic situations, life style, social support and school life and positive mental health and calculate odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals. RESULTS More than half (57.4%) of the participants were diagnosed as flourishing. The correlated factors of positive mental health in regression models included gender, perceived family economy, the occurrence of sibling(s), satisfaction of self-appearance, physical activity, sleep quality, stress, social trust, desire to learn, support from teachers and parents as well as whether being bullied at school (OR ranging from 1.23 to 2.75). The Hosmer-Lemeshow p-value for the final regression model (0.45) indicated adequate model fit. CONCLUSION This study gives the first overview on prevalence and correlates of positive mental health in Chinese adolescents. The prevalence of positive mental health in Chinese adolescents is higher than reported in most of the previous studies also using MHC-SF. Our findings suggest that adolescents with advantageous socio-economic situations, life style, social support and school life are experiencing better positive mental health than others.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng Guo
- Medical Management Centre, Department of Learning, Informatics, Management and Ethics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Göran Tomson
- Medical Management Centre, Department of Learning, Informatics, Management and Ethics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Christina Keller
- International Business School, Jönköping University, Jönköping, Sweden
| | - Fredrik Söderqvist
- Center for Clinical Research, Uppsala University, Västerås Hospital, Västerås, Sweden
- Competence Center for Health, Region of Västmanland, Västerås Hospital, Västerås, Sweden
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Peter T. More Than a Feeling? An Empirical Analysis of the Dual-Continua Model on a National Sample of Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Identified Canadians. JOURNAL OF HOMOSEXUALITY 2017; 65:814-831. [PMID: 28800279 DOI: 10.1080/00918369.2017.1364557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The goal of the study is to investigate whether positive mental health complements mental illness within a theoretically informed (the dual-continua model) and psychometrically tested (the Mental Health Continuum-Short Form) framework. National-level, population-based data from the 2012 Canadian Community Health Survey on Mental Health (CCHS-MH) was used, with comparisons between sexual minority and heterosexual adults. Results show that gay, lesbian, and bisexual Canadians have substantially lower rates of positive mental health and are more likely to have been diagnosed with a mental illness, with the disparities between health and illness being the most pronounced among lesbians and bisexual females. Results show considerable support for the dual-continua model, which posits that the absence of health does not automatically translate into the presence of illness, and vice versa. Suggestions are made for practitioners and researchers toward the use of the dual-continua model as a surveillance tool, especially among sexual minority individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tracey Peter
- Department of Sociology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
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23
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Vaingankar JA, Abdin E, Chong SA, Sambasivam R, Seow E, Jeyagurunathan A, Picco L, Stewart-Brown S, Subramaniam M. Psychometric properties of the short Warwick Edinburgh mental well-being scale (SWEMWBS) in service users with schizophrenia, depression and anxiety spectrum disorders. Health Qual Life Outcomes 2017; 15:153. [PMID: 28764770 PMCID: PMC5539899 DOI: 10.1186/s12955-017-0728-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2017] [Accepted: 07/21/2017] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background To establish the validity and reliability of the Short Warwick Edinburgh Mental Well-being Scale (SWEMWBS) in service users with schizophrenia, depression and anxiety spectrum disorders in Singapore and estimate SWEMWBS scores across socio-demographic and the three psychiatric diagnostic groups in the sample. Methods This secondary analysis was conducted using data from a study among outpatients of a tertiary psychiatric hospital. In addition to the SWEMWBS, socio-demographic data and current psychiatric diagnosis were collected. Service users were also administered the Global Assessment of Functioning (GAF), Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ)-8, Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD)-7, Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS) and the Positive Mental Health (PMH) instrument. The SWEMWBS was tested for factorial validity, reliability and convergent and divergent validity. Results In total, 350 service users with a mean (SD) age of 39.1 (11.1) years were included in this study of which 39.4%, 38.9% and 21.7% had schizophrenia, depression and anxiety spectrum disorders, respectively. The single factor structure of the SWEMWBS was confirmed by confirmatory factor analysis (CFI = 0.969, TLI = 0.954, RMSEA = 0.029). The internal consistency reliability was high (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.89). The convergent and divergent validity testing revealed that the SWEMWBS scores had significant moderate to high positive correlations with GAF, SWLS and PMH scores and moderate negative correlations with (PHQ)-8 and (GAD)-7 scores. SWEMWBS scores were higher in married participants (22.2 (5.4) versus never married: 20.7 (5.3) and divorced/separated/widowed: 20.4 (5.1), p = 0.049) and among those with schizophrenia (22.8 (5.5) versus depression:19.6 (4.7) and anxiety spectrum disorders 20.9 (5.2), p < 0.001). Conclusion These results demonstrate adequate validity and reliability of the SWEMWBS in people with schizophrenia, depression and anxiety spectrum disorders in Singapore.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janhavi Ajit Vaingankar
- Research Division, Institute of Mental Health, 10 Buangkok View, Singapore, 539747, Singapore.
| | - Edimansyah Abdin
- Research Division, Institute of Mental Health, 10 Buangkok View, Singapore, 539747, Singapore
| | - Siow Ann Chong
- Research Division, Institute of Mental Health, 10 Buangkok View, Singapore, 539747, Singapore
| | - Rajeswari Sambasivam
- Research Division, Institute of Mental Health, 10 Buangkok View, Singapore, 539747, Singapore
| | - Esmond Seow
- Research Division, Institute of Mental Health, 10 Buangkok View, Singapore, 539747, Singapore
| | - Anitha Jeyagurunathan
- Research Division, Institute of Mental Health, 10 Buangkok View, Singapore, 539747, Singapore
| | - Louisa Picco
- Research Division, Institute of Mental Health, 10 Buangkok View, Singapore, 539747, Singapore
| | | | - Mythily Subramaniam
- Research Division, Institute of Mental Health, 10 Buangkok View, Singapore, 539747, Singapore
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24
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Sattler FA, Franke GH, Christiansen H. Mental health differences between German gay and bisexual men and population-based controls. BMC Psychiatry 2017; 17:267. [PMID: 28732497 PMCID: PMC5521135 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-017-1435-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2017] [Accepted: 07/16/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND International studies have revealed that gay and bisexual men present more mental health problems than the general male population. Furthermore, there is evidence that minority stress predicts mental health problems in gay and bisexual men. The aim of the present study is to provide initial data on mental health differences in Germany and to analyze the effect of minority stress. METHODS Mental health data on n = 1903 German gay and bisexual men and n = 958 men from a population-based sample were assessed using a shortened version of the SCL-90-S. The mental health of the two samples was compared. Furthermore, a linear regression was conducted for the gay and bisexual sample: mental health was used as the criterion and minority stressors as predictors. RESULTS As compared to our population sample, gay and bisexual men demonstrated more mental health problems with a moderate effect size. In the regression, minority stress predicted mental health problems in the gay and bisexual sample. CONCLUSIONS We observed pronounced mental health differences between gay and bisexual men versus the population sample. These differences could be at least partly due to the minority stress gay and bisexual men face. Research should focus on how to reduce and cope with minority stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank A. Sattler
- 0000 0004 1936 9756grid.10253.35Department of Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychology, Philipps University Marburg, Gutenbergstraße 18, 35032 Marburg, Germany
| | - Gabriele H. Franke
- Psychology of Rehabilitation, University of Applied Sciences, Stendal, Germany
| | - Hanna Christiansen
- 0000 0004 1936 9756grid.10253.35Department of Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychology, Philipps University Marburg, Gutenbergstraße 18, 35032 Marburg, Germany
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Hosking W, Lyons A, van der Rest B. The Mental Health Impact of Physical Appearance Concerns in the Context of Other Life Domains Among Australian Gay Men. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2017; 46:1453-1464. [PMID: 27480751 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-016-0791-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2015] [Revised: 05/27/2016] [Accepted: 06/08/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Previous studies have identified gay men as a high-risk population for body image disturbances. However, little research has examined the mental health impact of gay men's physical appearance concerns in the context of other major life domains. The present study addressed this gap by investigating how mental health outcomes (satisfaction with life, self-esteem, positive well-being, and psychological distress) were associated with satisfaction with and importance of physical appearance, work, family relationships, friendships, health and fitness, and sex life among Australian gay men aged 18-39. The possible moderating role of intimate relationship status was also examined. Results from an online survey revealed that greater satisfaction with physical appearance, work, family, and friendships all had similar positive associations with mental health. However, more importance placed on physical appearance was more consistently associated with poorer mental health compared with the subjective importance of other domains. Findings also indicated the associations between physical appearance satisfaction and life satisfaction, and between physical appearance importance and positive well-being, were weaker for those in relationships. Thus, physical appearance matters in gay men's lives, but was only one factor when considered in the broader context of other life areas that contributed to overall well-being. These findings suggest the need for a nuanced and contextualized understanding of how physical appearance concerns fit into gay men's lives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Warwick Hosking
- Psychology Discipline, College of Arts, Victoria University, P.O. Box 14428, Melbourne, VIC, 8001, Australia.
- Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia.
| | - Anthony Lyons
- Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Brittany van der Rest
- Psychology Discipline, College of Arts, Victoria University, P.O. Box 14428, Melbourne, VIC, 8001, Australia
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Lyons A, Pepping CA. Prospective effects of social support on internalized homonegativity and sexual identity concealment among middle-aged and older gay men: a longitudinal cohort study. ANXIETY STRESS AND COPING 2017; 30:585-597. [DOI: 10.1080/10615806.2017.1330465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Anthony Lyons
- Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
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Fredriksen-Goldsen KI, Shiu C, Bryan AEB, Goldsen J, Kim HJ. Health Equity and Aging of Bisexual Older Adults: Pathways of Risk and Resilience. J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci 2017; 72:468-478. [PMID: 27815302 PMCID: PMC5927101 DOI: 10.1093/geronb/gbw120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2016] [Accepted: 08/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Bisexual older adults are a growing yet largely invisible, underserved, and understudied population. Utilizing the Health Equity Promotion Model, we examined hypothesized mechanisms accounting for health disparities between bisexual older adults and lesbian and gay older adults. METHOD Based on data from Caring and Aging with Pride, the largest national survey of LGBT older adults, this study (N = 2,463) utilized structural equation modeling to investigate direct and indirect associations between sexual identity (bisexual vs. lesbian and gay) and health via sexual identity factors (identity disclosure and internalized stigma), social resources, and socioeconomic status (SES). RESULTS Bisexual older adults reported significantly poorer health compared with lesbian and gay older adults. Indirect effects involving sexual identity factors, social resources, and SES explained the association between bisexual identity and poorer health. A potentially protective pathway was also identified wherein bisexuals had larger social networks after adjusting for other factors. DISCUSSION Bisexual older adults face distinct challenges and health risks relative to other older adults, likely because of the accumulation of socioeconomic and psychosocial disadvantages across the life course. Interventions taking into account older bisexuals' unique risk and protective factors may be helpful in reducing health inequities.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Chengshi Shiu
- School of Social Work, University of Washington, Seattle
| | | | - Jayn Goldsen
- School of Social Work, University of Washington, Seattle
| | - Hyun-Jun Kim
- School of Social Work, University of Washington, Seattle
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Abstract
The past few decades have seen increased scholarly attention to gay and lesbian individuals' aging experiences; however, few studies examine differences in subjective aging by sexual minority status. We identify four perspectives on the association between sexual minority status and subjective aging-double jeopardy, crisis competence, gender interactive, and limited salience perspectives. We examine each perspective's predictions using data from the first wave of Midlife in the United States (1995-1996; MIDUS). Ordinary least square regression models reveal strongest support for the limited salience perspective, suggesting that sexual minority status has weaker effects on subjective aging than do other social factors, such as age, health, and gender. However, some results provide support for the gender interactive perspective, positing that the effect of sexual minority status on subjective aging varies by gender. Our study provides an organizational framework of theoretical perspectives that can guide further examinations of variation in aging experiences by sexual minority status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Barrett
- 1 Pepper Institute on Aging and Public Policy and Department of Sociology, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, USA
| | - Harry Barbee
- 2 Department of Sociology, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, USA
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The relationship between living alone and depressive symptoms among older gay men: the moderating role of sense of belonging with gay friends. Int Psychogeriatr 2016; 28:1895-1901. [PMID: 27503166 DOI: 10.1017/s1041610216001241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Living alone is a risk factor for depressive symptoms among older adults, although it is unclear if it is a risk factor for older gay men. A sense of belonging to the gay community is protective and might compensate for living alone. This research investigated whether a sense of belonging with gay friends weakened the relationship between living alone and depressive symptoms among older gay men. METHODS A community sample of 160 Australian gay men aged 65-92 years completed the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale and two visual analogue scales assessing a sense of belonging with gay friends. RESULTS Results supported the moderation model, with increasing levels of belonging with gay friends weakening the relationship between living alone and depressive symptoms. CONCLUSION Results imply that enhancing a sense of belonging with gay friends among older gay men who live alone is likely to be a protective factor in relation to depressive symptoms.
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Abstract
Rates of depression and anxiety are disproportionately high among lesbians and gay men, and stigma-related stress is thought to be a major factor. While reducing stigma remains a priority, developing ways to assist lesbians and gay men to build resilience to stigma-related stress is also a growing priority among policymakers and health professionals. This article summarizes major conceptual work and research on resilience among lesbians and gay men, including key findings from a nationwide online survey involving 2,793 Australian lesbians and gay men aged 16 years and older that examined demographic and psychosocial factors related to resilience. Research on resilience in gay and lesbian populations is currently a small field but appears to be growing. As recommended in this article, further work is needed to identify circumstances in which lesbians and gay men display resilience to stigma-related stress and to systematically test resilience training programmes that help to prevent depression and anxiety in these at-risk populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony Lyons
- a Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society, La Trobe University , Melbourne, Victoria , Australia
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31
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Crameri P, Barrett C, Latham JR, Whyte C. It is more than sex and clothes: Culturally safe services for older lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex people. Australas J Ageing 2016; 34 Suppl 2:21-5. [PMID: 26525442 DOI: 10.1111/ajag.12270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
This paper outlines the development of culturally safe services for older lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex people. It draws on a framework for cultural safety, developed in New Zealand which incorporates an understanding of how history, culture and power imbalances influence the relationship between service providers and Maori people. This has been adapted to the needs of older lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex Australians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pauline Crameri
- Sexual Health and Ageing Program, Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Catherine Barrett
- Sexual Health and Ageing Program, Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - J R Latham
- Sexual Health and Ageing Program, Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Carolyn Whyte
- Sexual Health and Ageing Program, Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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McNair RP, Bush R. Mental health help seeking patterns and associations among Australian same sex attracted women, trans and gender diverse people: a survey-based study. BMC Psychiatry 2016; 16:209. [PMID: 27377408 PMCID: PMC4932693 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-016-0916-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2015] [Accepted: 06/08/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Same sex attracted women (SSAW) are disproportionately affected by depression and anxiety, due to experiences of sexuality and gender based discrimination. They access mental health services at higher rates than heterosexual women, however with lower levels of satisfaction. This study examined the range of professional and social help seeking by same-sex attracted women, and patterns according to sexual orientation and gender identity subgroup. METHODS Eight key stakeholders were interviewed, and a convenience sample of 1628 Australian SSAW completed an online survey in 2015. This included several scales to measure mental health, community connectedness and resilience; and measured past 12 month help seeking behaviour, enablers, barriers and preferences for mental health care. Chi-square analyses and binary logistic regression analyses examined demographic associations with mental health. Correlations between help seeking, mental and physical health, and connectedness were run. RESULTS A high proportion (80 %) of the total sample had perceived mental health problems over the past 12 months. Over half had depression, and over 96 % had anxiety. Trans and gender diverse participants were twice as likely as female participants to have mental health problems, and lesbians were least likely. High levels of past 12 month help seeking included 74.4 % seeing a GP, 44.3 % seeing a psychologist/counsellor, 74.7 % seeking family/friends support and 55.2 % using internet based support. Professional help was prioritised by those with higher mental health need. Trans participants were most likely to have sought professional help and participated in support groups, but least likely to have sought help from friends or family. The most common barriers to help seeking were discrimination and lack of LGBTI sensitivity of services, particularly for gender diverse, queer and pansexual participants. Enablers included mainstream community connectedness, having a trustworthy GP, and encouragement by friends. CONCLUSIONS Mental health services need to be LGBTI inclusive and to understand the emerging diverse sexual and gender identities. Peer support is an important adjunct to professional support, however may not be fully meeting the needs of some identity sub-groups. Mental health promotion should be tailored for diverse sub-groups to build mental health literacy and resilience in the face of ongoing discrimination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth P. McNair
- Department of General Practice, University of Melbourne, 200 Berkeley St, Carlton, 3053 Victoria Australia
| | - Rachel Bush
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Deakin University, 221 Burwood Highway, Burwood, 3125 Australia
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Gahagan J, Colpitts E. Understanding and Measuring LGBTQ Pathways to Health: A Scoping Review of Strengths-Based Health Promotion Approaches in LGBTQ Health Research. JOURNAL OF HOMOSEXUALITY 2016; 64:95-121. [PMID: 27043161 DOI: 10.1080/00918369.2016.1172893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Health research traditionally has focused on the health risks and deficits of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) populations, obscuring the determinants that can promote health across the life course. Recognizing, appropriately measuring, and rendering visible these determinants of health is paramount to informing appropriate and engaging health policies, services, and systems for LGBTQ populations. The overarching purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the findings of a scoping review aimed at exploring strengths-based health promotion approaches to understanding and measuring LGBTQ health. Specifically, this scoping review examined peer-reviewed, published academic literature to determine (a) existing methodological frameworks for studying LGBTQ health from a strengths-based health promotion approach, and (b) suggestions for future methodological approaches for studying LGBTQ health from a strengths-based health promotion approach. The findings of this scoping review will be used to inform the development of a study aimed at assessing the health of and improving pathways to health services among LGBTQ populations in Nova Scotia, Canada.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline Gahagan
- a Health Promotion Division, Gender and Health Promotion Studies Unit, School of Health and Human Performance , Dalhousie University , Halifax , Nova Scotia , Canada
| | - Emily Colpitts
- a Health Promotion Division, Gender and Health Promotion Studies Unit, School of Health and Human Performance , Dalhousie University , Halifax , Nova Scotia , Canada
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Neville S, Kushner B, Adams J. Coming out narratives of older gay men living in New Zealand. Australas J Ageing 2015; 34 Suppl 2:29-33. [DOI: 10.1111/ajag.12277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Stephen Neville
- Department of Nursing; Auckland University of Technology; Auckland New Zealand
| | - Bernie Kushner
- School of Nursing; Massey University; Albany Campus Auckland New Zealand
| | - Jeffery Adams
- SHORE & Whariki Research Centre; Massey University; Albany Campus Auckland New Zealand
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Lyons A. Social Support and the Mental Health of Older Gay Men: Findings From a National Community-Based Survey. Res Aging 2015; 38:234-53. [PMID: 26092208 DOI: 10.1177/0164027515588996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
This study examines different types and sources of social support in relation to psychological distress levels among older Australian gay men. A national community-based survey was conducted involving 242 gay-identified men aged 50 years and older. In univariable regressions, psychological distress was less likely if men were receiving emotional support, practical support, or had a sense of belonging, and also if they had a greater number of close friends and received some or a lot of support from family and gay friends but not from straight friends. Of all these factors, a multivariable regression showed that receiving emotional support was the only significant independent factor. Emotional support appears to play a greater role in the mental health of older gay men than many other types and sources of support. Ensuring access to emotional support may need to be considered when promoting healthier aging among gay men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony Lyons
- Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health, and Society, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Lyons A, Hosking W. Health disparities among common subcultural identities of young gay men: physical, mental, and sexual health. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2014; 43:1621-1635. [PMID: 25060121 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-014-0315-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2013] [Revised: 02/17/2014] [Accepted: 04/15/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Researchers, policymakers, and health agencies have tended to treat gay men as a relatively homogeneous population, with little attention given to its many subcultural identities. In this study, we focused on young gay men and investigated a range of health-related differences according to common subcultural identities, such as Bear, Cub, and Twink. In a nationwide cross-sectional online survey of 1,034 Australian gay men aged 18-39 years, 44% reported a subcultural identity, the two most common being Cub (9%) and Twink (20%). Logistic and linear regression analyses compared Cub- and Twink-identified men and those without a subcultural identity (Non-identified) on a range of health-related outcomes. After adjusting for differences in age and body mass index (BMI), Twink-identified men had the highest risk profile overall, including significantly higher rates of smoking tobacco and alcohol consumption. They were also significantly more likely to report engaging in receptive anal sex. In addition, Cub-identified men were significantly more likely to report being in an ongoing relationship while Non-identified men were significantly less likely to report experiences of discrimination in the past 12 months. Differences on measures of mental health between the three groups were no longer significant after adjusting for age and BMI. In summary, we found numerous health-related differences according to subcultural identity that warrant further investigation by researchers, health agencies, and others concerned with further understanding and addressing health-related challenges of gay men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony Lyons
- Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society, La Trobe University, 215 Franklin Street, Melbourne, VIC, 3000, Australia,
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Barrett C, Whyte C, Comfort J, Lyons A, Crameri P. Social connection, relationships and older lesbian and gay people 1.. SEXUAL AND RELATIONSHIP THERAPY 2014; 30:131-142. [PMID: 25544830 PMCID: PMC4270424 DOI: 10.1080/14681994.2014.963983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2014] [Accepted: 09/06/2014] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
This paper presents data from a small study exploring the impacts of homophobia on the lives of older lesbian and gay Australians. Eleven in-depth interviews were conducted with older lesbians (6) and gay men (5) ranging in age from 65 to 79 years. The study found that participants’ sense of self was shaped by the dominant medical, legal and religious institutions of their youth that defined them as sick, immoral or criminal. Participants described enforced “cure” therapies, being imprisoned, having employment terminated and being disowned and disinherited by family. In this context, intimate relationships and social networks provided refuge where trust was rebuilt and sexuality affirmed. Many created safe spaces for themselves. This equilibrium was threatened with increasing age, disability and the reliance on health and social services. Participants feared a return to institutional control and a need to “straighten up” or hide their sexuality. In response, partners stepped into the role of caregiver, at times beyond their capacity and at a cost to their relationship. The study describes the importance of understanding social connections in the lives of older lesbians and gay men. It highlights the need for inclusive services to ensure that social networks are supported and that health and well-being are promoted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Barrett
- Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society, La Trobe University , Melbourne , Australia
| | - Carolyn Whyte
- Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society, La Trobe University , Melbourne , Australia
| | - Jude Comfort
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, West Australian Centre for Health Promotion Research, Curtin University , Perth , Australia
| | - Anthony Lyons
- Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society, La Trobe University , Melbourne , Australia
| | - Pauline Crameri
- Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society, La Trobe University , Melbourne , Australia
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Gonzales G, Henning-Smith C. Disparities in health and disability among older adults in same-sex cohabiting relationships. J Aging Health 2014; 27:432-53. [PMID: 25253727 DOI: 10.1177/0898264314551332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The present study compared indicators of impaired health and disability between older adults in same-sex cohabiting relationships and their peers in opposite-sex cohabiting relationships. METHOD Data were obtained on men (n = 698) and women (n = 630) aged 50 years and older and in self-reported same-sex relationships from the National Health Interview Survey. Multiple regression analyses were conducted to estimate differences in physical health, mental health, and disability status. RESULTS Compared with their peers in married opposite-sex relationships, older men in same-sex relationships exhibited greater odds of psychological distress, and older women in same-sex relationships experienced elevated odds of poor/fair health, needing help with activities of daily living and instrumental activities of daily living, functional limitations, and psychological distress. DISCUSSION This study adds to the limited information on health and disability among older lesbian, gay, and bisexual adults. As this population grows, gerontologists must develop a better understanding of the unique issues and challenges facing them and their families.
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Lyons A, Hosking W, Rozbroj T. Rural-Urban Differences in Mental Health, Resilience, Stigma, and Social Support Among Young Australian Gay Men. J Rural Health 2014; 31:89-97. [DOI: 10.1111/jrh.12089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Anthony Lyons
- Australian Research Centre in Sex; Health and Society; La Trobe University; Melbourne Australia
| | - Warwick Hosking
- Australian Research Centre in Sex; Health and Society; La Trobe University; Melbourne Australia
- Discipline of Psychology; College of Arts; Victoria University; Melbourne Australia
| | - Tomas Rozbroj
- Australian Research Centre in Sex; Health and Society; La Trobe University; Melbourne Australia
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Abstract
ABSTRACTMen in the gay liberation generation are approaching or entering older age. Being at the forefront of gay rights movements since the 1970s and 1980s, this generation has experienced dramatic changes in gay life. The present study aimed to provide a greater understanding of this generation by examining some of the ways these men perceive their changing lives. Participants included 439 Australian gay-identified men aged 50 years and older who completed an online survey of their health and wellbeing. These men gave unrestricted open-ended responses to a question on how life had changed for them as a gay man since being aged in their twenties. Responses were analysed qualitatively using a thematic analysis approach to identify main themes. Participants expressed many positive changes to their lives, including greater public- and self-acceptance of their sexuality, greater confidence and self-esteem, and more freedom for same-sex relationships. However, some men expressed a loss of gay community compared to their younger years and a perception that the younger generation under-appreciated the struggles they had endured. Age- and HIV-related stigma from within the gay community, as well as a loss of sexual attractiveness, also emerged as concerns for some participants. These findings may assist researchers, health professionals and aged care services to further understand the needs and experiences of this older generation of gay men.
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Rozbroj T, Lyons A, Pitts M, Mitchell A, Christensen H. Assessing the applicability of e-therapies for depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders among lesbians and gay men: analysis of 24 web- and mobile phone-based self-help interventions. J Med Internet Res 2014; 16:e166. [PMID: 24996000 PMCID: PMC4115263 DOI: 10.2196/jmir.3529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2014] [Revised: 06/12/2014] [Accepted: 06/12/2014] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Lesbians and gay men have disproportionately high rates of depression and anxiety, and report lower satisfaction with treatments. In part, this may be because many health care options marginalize them by assuming heterosexuality, or misunderstand and fail to respond to the challenges specifically faced by these groups. E-therapies have particular potential to respond to the mental health needs of lesbians and gay men, but there is little research to determine whether they do so, or how they might be improved. Objective We sought to examine the applicability of existing mental health e-therapies for lesbians and gay men. Methods We reviewed 24 Web- and mobile phone-based e-therapies and assessed their performance in eight key areas, including the use of inclusive language and content and whether they addressed mental health stressors for lesbians and gay men, such as experiences of stigma related to their sexual orientation, coming out, and relationship issues that are specific to lesbians and gay men. Results We found that e-therapies seldom addressed these stressors. Furthermore, 58% (14/24) of therapies contained instances that assumed or suggested the user was heterosexual, with instances especially prevalent among better-evidenced programs. Conclusions Our findings, and a detailed review protocol presented in this article, may be used as guides for the future development of mental health e-therapies to better accommodate the needs of lesbians and gay men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomas Rozbroj
- Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society, Faculty of Health Sciences, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia.
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Reczek C. The intergenerational relationships of gay men and lesbian women. J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci 2014; 69:909-19. [PMID: 24809853 DOI: 10.1093/geronb/gbu042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Despite the demonstrated importance of intergenerational ties across the life course, few studies examine relationships between gay men and lesbians and their later life parents and parents-in-law. The present study examines how midlife to later life gay men and lesbians in intimate partnerships conceptualize these intergenerational ties. METHOD Qualitative analysis of 50 in-depth interviews collected with midlife to later life gay men and lesbians (ages 40-72) in long-term intimate partnerships. RESULTS Findings reveal 4 central ways respondents describe supportive parent-child and parent-child in-law relationships: integration, inclusion through language, social support, and affirmations. Findings reveal 3 central ways individuals distinguish strained parent-child and parent-child in-law relationships: rejection in everyday life, traumatic events, and the threat of being usurped. Findings further articulate how intergenerational ambivalence is distinguished through descriptions of a parent as simultaneously supportive (via subthemes of solidarity) and rejecting (via subthemes of strain). DISCUSSION Findings from this study provide empirical evidence of how support, strain, and ambivalence in intergenerational ties are identified and experienced by gay men and lesbian women. This study reveals a new lens to view relationships between midlife to later life adults and their aging parents and parents-in-law and further identifies linkages between solidarity-conflict and ambivalence paradigms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corinne Reczek
- Department of Sociology, The Ohio State University, Columbus.
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Lyons A, Pitts M, Grierson J. Sense of coherence as a protective factor for psychological distress among gay men: a prospective cohort study. ANXIETY STRESS AND COPING 2014; 27:662-77. [DOI: 10.1080/10615806.2014.887071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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