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Rosik CH, Lefevor GT, McGraw JS, Beckstead AL. Is Conservative Religiousness Inherently Associated with Poorer Health for Sexual Minorities? J Relig Health 2022; 61:3055-3075. [PMID: 34075507 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-021-01289-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Results of path analysis involving sexual minority participants (N = 1317) from diverse sociopolitical contexts revealed health outcomes to be associated with internalized homonegativity and the resolution of conflict between religious and sexual minority identities. Contrary to expectations, several markers of religiousness were not directly associated with either improved or worsened health outcomes for depression or anxiety. However, religious activity moderated the influence of internalized homonegativity (IH) on depression such that IH was less strongly related to depression among individuals who frequently attended religious services than among individuals who infrequently attended religious services. These findings have special salience for advancing a more accurate understanding of conservatively religious sexual minorities and directing culturally sensitive research, clinical services, and public policy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher H Rosik
- Link Care Foundation, 1734 W. Shaw Ave, Fresno, CA, 93711, USA.
- Department of Psychology, Fresno Pacific University, Fresno, USA.
| | - G Tyler Lefevor
- Department of Psychology, Utah State University, Logan, UT, USA
| | - James S McGraw
- Department of Psychology, Bowling Green State University, Bowling Green, OH, USA
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Rosik CH, Lefevor GT, Beckstead AL. Sexual minorities responding to sexual orientation distress: Examining 33 methods and the effects of sexual identity labeling and theological viewpoint. Spirituality in Clinical Practice 2022. [DOI: 10.1037/scp0000295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Lefevor GT, Schow RL, Beckstead AL, Raynes M, Young NT, Rosik CH. Domains related to four single/relationship options among sexual minorities raised conservatively religious. Spirituality in Clinical Practice 2021. [DOI: 10.1037/scp0000237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Rosik CH, Lefevor GT, Beckstead AL. Sexual Minorities who Reject an LGB Identity: Who Are They and Why Does It Matter? Issues Law Med 2021; 36:27-43. [PMID: 33939341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Although some persons with minority sexual orientations do not identify as lesbian, gay, or bisexual (LGB), Minority Stress Theory (Meyer, 2003) has largely been developed utilizing LGB-identified samples. We examined a sample (n = 274) of sexual minorities with diverse religious and sexual identity labels to determine if those rejecting versus adopting an LGB identity were different in terms of religious, sexual, relational, and health characteristics. Results suggested those who reject an LGB identity are more likely to be religiously active, full members of their church, and highly intrinsic and theologically conservative in their religious viewpoint. They further reported having slightly more lifetime heterosexual attractions, fantasies, and behaviors; greater internalized homonegativity; and being more interested in having children and a child-centered family life. They were also more likely to be single and celibate or in a heterosexual relationship. Contrary to expectations, these differences were not associated with health differences in depression, anxiety, and social flourishing. LGB-identified participants did report higher life satisfaction than those rejecting an LGB identity, but this difference was not interpretively meaningful when considered in reference to population norms. We conclude with a discussion of the potential implications of our findings for research, legal and professional advocacy, and clinical care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher H Rosik
- Link Care Center, Fresno, California, United States; Department of Psychology, Fresno Pacific University. We have no known conflict of interest to disclose. We gratefully acknowledge the work of Ron Schow, Marybeth Raynes, and Ty Mansfield in survey design, recruitment, and feedback on earlier versions of this article. Correspondence concerning this article should be addressed to Christopher H. Rosik, Link Care Center, 1734 W. Shaw Ave, Fresno, CA 93711. Phone: (559) 439-2647 (x142). Fax: (559) 439-4712.
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Lefevor GT, Sorrell SA, Kappers G, Plunk A, Schow RL, Rosik CH, Beckstead AL. Same-Sex Attracted, Not LGBQ: The Associations of Sexual Identity Labeling on Religiousness, Sexuality, and Health Among Mormons. J Homosex 2020; 67:940-964. [PMID: 30848999 DOI: 10.1080/00918369.2018.1564006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
In the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (LDS church), beliefs about same-sex sexual attraction are carefully differentiated from beliefs about same-sex sexual behavior and identity, leading some to reject a lesbian, gay, bisexual, or queer (LGBQ) identity label in favor of declining a sexual identity or describing themselves as experiencing same-sex attraction (SSA). Using data from 1,128 sexual minority Mormons recruited from both politically conservative and liberal circles, we examined the relationship between rejecting an LGBQ identity and religiousness, attitudes toward sexuality, and health outcomes. We found that Mormons who reject an LGBQ identity were significantly more religious and less content with their sexuality but had similar health outcomes relative to LGBQ Mormons. We posit that these differences are best understood by differences in group affiliation and support, intersectional experiences with minority stressors, and the lack of generalizability of LGBQ constructs to those who reject an LGBQ identity.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Tyler Lefevor
- Department of Psychology, Rhodes College, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Sydney A Sorrell
- Department of Psychology, Rhodes College, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Grace Kappers
- Department of Psychology, Rhodes College, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Ashley Plunk
- Department of Psychology, Rhodes College, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Ron L Schow
- Kasiska Division of Health Sciences, Idaho State University, Pocatello, Idaho, USA
| | - Christopher H Rosik
- Department of Psychology, Link Care Center, Fresno, California, USA
- Department of Psychology, Fresno Pacific University, Fresno, California, USA
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Lefevor GT, Beckstead AL, Schow RL, Raynes M, Mansfield TR, Rosik CH. Satisfaction and Health Within Four Sexual Identity Relationship Options. J Sex Marital Ther 2019; 45:355-369. [PMID: 30651052 DOI: 10.1080/0092623x.2018.1531333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Using a sample of 1,782 same-sex attracted (SSA) and lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) identified participants, this study examined similarities and differences among those who are (a) single and celibate (SC); (b) single and not celibate (SNC); (c) in a heterosexual, mixed-orientation relationship (MOR); and (d) in a same-sex relationship (SSR). To reduce bias and increase generalizability, an ideologically diverse research team was formed. Participants in SSRs reported higher levels of some amount of satisfaction with their status (95%) compared to those in MORs (80%), those who are SC (42%) and those who are SNC (40%). The SSR group had the least depression and anxiety and the most life satisfaction and physical health, followed by the MOR group, followed by the two single groups. Results from a stepwise regression predicting satisfaction from important aspects of life and relationships identified that meeting needs for connection, intimacy, and mutual understanding was the strongest predictor of satisfaction across all options. Other significant variables included participant-defined authentic sexual expression, resolving conflicts with religion, and reducing depression and anxiety. Results may inform SSA/LGB individuals who are questioning which option fits best for them and help guide therapists who work with these individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Tyler Lefevor
- a a Department of Psychology , Rhodes College , Memphis , TN, USA
| | | | - Ronald L Schow
- c c Kasiska Division of Health Sciences , Idaho State University , Pocatello , ID, USA
| | | | | | - Christopher H Rosik
- e e Marriage and Family Therapy Program, Fresno Pacific University , Fresno , CA, USA
- f f Link Care Center , Fresno , CA, USA
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Abstract
Despite a long history of viewing homosexuality as pathological and in need of change, the majority of mental health professions have, during the past 30 years, adopted statements that have depathologized lesbian, gay, and bisexual individuals. However, concurrent with these advances has been a rise in religious and therapeutic approaches to sexual reorientation (conversion or “reparative”) therapies. Recent scholarship highlights these controversies and the benefits and harms experienced by clients who have sought such interventions. This major contribution extends extant scholarship to include predisposing environmental and personality variables that lead same-sex attracted individuals in religious conflict to conversion therapies, an understanding of the journey to and through such therapies, and clinical implications and recommendations for working with these clients in a manner that does not contribute to further conflict.
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Morrow SL, Beckstead AL, Hayes JA, Haldeman DC. Impossible Dreams, Impossible Choices, and Thoughts about Depolarizing the Debate. The Counseling Psychologist 2016. [DOI: 10.1177/0011000004267564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Abstract
Perspectives were gathered of 50 Mormon individuals who had undergone counseling to change their sexual orientation. The data were analyzed using the constant comparative method and participant verification, thereby developing a grounded theory. A model emerged that depicted participants’ intrapersonal and interpersonal motivations for seeking conversion or “reparative” therapy, their perceived benefits and harms of such interventions, and the factors that facilitated self-acceptance and consolidation of a positive self-identity. Based on these descriptions, this study provides the foundation for a broader-based treatment approach (besides one focused solely on changing sexual orientation or adopting a lesbian, gay, or bisexual identity), which is designed to produce individualized congruent solutions for religiously conflicted, same-sex-attracted clients.
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Abstract
The self-reports of individuals who claim that they have changed their sexual orientation are either dismissed as false or relied upon to promote sexual orientation change efforts. However, these reactions do not capture the complexity of the sexual reorientation phenomenon. This article provides an overview regarding the promise and effort of sexual reorientation and how this knowledge may inform our current understanding of human sexuality. Specifically, a brief history is given of the interventions used to change attractions to same-sex adults and the assumptions underlying these efforts. Information will be given regarding which conclusions can be derived from sexual reorientation studies. The limitations of these studies will be explained to strengthen future research. Hypotheses will be presented regarding the motivations and needs of those distressed by a same-sex erotic orientation and the impact that the hope of sexual reorientation may have for family members, religious leaders, and policy makers. A multivariate model of sexuality and sexual orientation, including scales of attraction and aversion, will be proposed based upon current understanding of sexuality and the distinctions found in sexual reorientation research. In the end, a therapeutic framework will be highlighted that may be used (and researched) to help those distressed by their sexual orientation.
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Cantor JM, Blanchard R, Christensen BK, Dickey R, Klassen PE, Beckstead AL, Blak T, Kuban ME. Intelligence, Memory, and Handedness in Pedophilia. Neuropsychology 2004; 18:3-14. [PMID: 14744183 DOI: 10.1037/0894-4105.18.1.3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 141] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
A sample of 473 male patients with pedophilia (assessed by the patients' sexual history and penile response in the laboratory to standardized, erotic stimuli) or other problematic sexual interests or behaviors received brief neuropsychological assessments. Neuropsychological measures included a short form of the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale--Revised (D. Wechsler, 1981), the Hopkins Verbal Learning Test--Revised (R. H. B. Benedict, D. Schretlen. L. Groninger. & J. Brandt, 1998), the Brief Visuospatial Memory Test--Revised (R. H. B. Benedict, 1997), and the Edinburgh Handedness Inventory (S. M. Williams, 1986). Pedophilia showed significant negative correlations with IQ and immediate and delayed recall memory. Pedophilia was also related to non-right-handedness even after covarying age and IQ. These results suggest that pedophilia is linked to early neurodevelopmental perturbations.
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Affiliation(s)
- James M Cantor
- Law and Mental Health Program, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), Toronto, ON, Canada.
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