Youth

Research

23 pages, 780 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Exploratory Evaluation Case Study on Latinx-Maternal Acceptance Promotion of LGBTQ+ Youth Using Participatory Culture-Specific Intervention Modeling (PCSIM) Methods

by Sarah Kiperman, Nina Brown, Olivia Kelly and Rebecca Treisman

Youth 2023, 3(3), 777-799; https://doi.org/10.3390/youth3030050 - 27 Jun 2023

Viewed by 1993

Abstract

Family acceptance is one of the strongest predictors of mental health in youth with diverse sexual orientations and genders (LGBTQ+) In Latinx communities, where the values of familismo, machismo, and religion may present as both strengths and barriers to facilitating family acceptance, culture-responsive [...] Read more.

Family acceptance is one of the strongest predictors of mental health in youth with diverse sexual orientations and genders (LGBTQ+) In Latinx communities, where the values of familismo, machismo, and religion may present as both strengths and barriers to facilitating family acceptance, culture-responsive programming can encourage LGBTQ+ youth acceptance. This study uses an exploratory evaluation case study design to learn how using participatory culture-specific intervention modeling (PCSIM) methods can facilitate Latinx maternal acceptance of LGBTQ+ youth and to identify the successes and challenges researchers encountered throughout the process to inform future intervention implementation efforts. A total of n = 16 Latinx community members participated in the brief psychoeducational programming. The participants were Latinx women—predominately mothers—and ranged in age from 14 to 55 years old. All the participants spoke Spanish and n = 4 also spoke English. The study presents the PCISM process and mothers’ evaluation of their experience and perceptions using mixed methods. The maternal reports indicated favorable qualitative acceptability and efficacy findings but demonstrated minimal statistical significance. This study conveys how researchers implemented the PCSIM approach to yield brief, culture-responsive programming with Latinx mothers to facilitate their openness towards accepting LGBTQ+ children in their homes and communities. The researchers reviewed how the practices from this current study can be used or amended in future culture-responsive programming that partners with Latinx mothers and community centers collaborating with this community to facilitate acceptance of LGBTQ+ youth to yield more generalizable and sustainable program development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue LGBTIQ+ Youth: Experiences, Needs, and Aspirations)

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12 pages, 274 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Experiencing “the Wrong Kind of Puberty”: Navigating Teenage Years with a Variation in Sex Characteristics

by Eileen Joy, Tove Lundberg and Katrina Roen

Youth 2023, 3(1), 465-476; https://doi.org/10.3390/youth3010032 - 22 Mar 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3000

Abstract

There are many different variations in sex characteristics, some of which have implications for how the body goes through puberty. This paper draws from critical disability studies and childhood and youth studies to understand the teenage experiences and aspirations of young people with [...] Read more.

There are many different variations in sex characteristics, some of which have implications for how the body goes through puberty. This paper draws from critical disability studies and childhood and youth studies to understand the teenage experiences and aspirations of young people with variations in sex characteristics, focusing particularly on navigating puberty. We undertook a reflexive thematic analysis with interview data from 12 young people in England, all assigned female at birth. Our analysis produced a central theme: aspiring to certainty through “fixing” the wrong kind of puberty. Participants experience puberty as a time where things exist on a continuum of rightness and wrongness in comparison with their peers and in relation to their specific variation. We suggest that the neoliberal aspiration to and illusion of bodily control and certainty provides the context within which the medical management of variations in sex characteristics makes sense. Going through medical intervention in relation to a variation in sex characteristics provides a very particular aspirational context for young people. The experience of puberty is intersectionally differentiated for young people with variations in sex characteristics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue LGBTIQ+ Youth: Experiences, Needs, and Aspirations)

16 pages, 279 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Developing Marsha and Marian’s Neighbors: A Shared Housing Intervention to Address Homelessness among LGBTQ+ and Pregnant/Parenting Youth

by Maurice N. Gattis, M. Alex Wagaman and Aaron Kemmerer

Youth 2023, 3(1), 335-350; https://doi.org/10.3390/youth3010022 - 24 Feb 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3380

Abstract

Background: The aim of this paper is to describe the development of a shared housing model intervention that was designed to serve youth experiencing homelessness who are LGBTQ+ and/or pregnant/parenting. The intervention is built around two guiding philosophies: housing first and restorative justice. [...] Read more.

Background: The aim of this paper is to describe the development of a shared housing model intervention that was designed to serve youth experiencing homelessness who are LGBTQ+ and/or pregnant/parenting. The intervention is built around two guiding philosophies: housing first and restorative justice. Methods: We engaged in a year-long planning process with an advisory group from 1 July 2021 through 30 June 2022. The advisory group is a partnership between Virginia Commonwealth University School of Social Work, seven young people with lived experience expertise, and members from four partner organizations, including local organizations serving LGBTQ+ youth. Results: Marsha and Marian’s Neighbors is designed to provide safe, comfortable housing for 12 months for 20 young people and their children if they have any. Participants will live in apartments where rent and utilities are paid for by the program for all participants. The program also provides money for arrears that may prevent the participants from being able to secure a lease, mental health appointments, legal consultations, and doula services provided by partners recruited by the planning team. Services are provided by staff and partners that are LGBTQ+ affirming and pregnant and parenting affirming. Conclusion: One of the most important lessons that we learned is the power of developing shared values in a novel intervention for LGBTQ+ youth. One focused intervention that supports both pregnant and parenting youth who identify as LGBTQ+ remains necessary. Paradoxically, LGBTQ+ people, particularly bisexual, lesbian, and queer cisgender women, are at an equal or greater risk of unplanned pregnancy. Both groups are vulnerable to housing instability independently, and those who live at the intersection of being LGBTQ+ and pregnant/parenting face an elevated risk for housing instability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue LGBTIQ+ Youth: Experiences, Needs, and Aspirations)

24 pages, 1629 KiB

Open AccessArticle

LGBT+ Youth Perspectives on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Questions in the Growing Up in Ireland Survey: A Qualitative Study

by Nerilee Ceatha, Aaron C. C. Koay, Ayrton Kelly, Tara Killeen, Katie McCabe, James Murray, Jayson Pope, Niamh Scully, Conor Buggy and Des Crowley

Youth 2023, 3(1), 261-284; https://doi.org/10.3390/youth3010018 - 15 Feb 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 5874

Abstract

The increasing importance of identifying lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT+) populations is a key driver in changes to demographic data collection in representative surveys of youth. While such population-based data are rare, Growing Up in Ireland (GUI), an Irish, government-funded, longitudinal survey, [...] Read more.

The increasing importance of identifying lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT+) populations is a key driver in changes to demographic data collection in representative surveys of youth. While such population-based data are rare, Growing Up in Ireland (GUI), an Irish, government-funded, longitudinal survey, includes sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) measurements. This qualitative study responds to a query from the GUI study team and aims to identify how best to collect SOGI data in future waves of GUI. A university Human Research Ethics Committee granted approval for online consultations with LGBT+ youth (n = 6) with experiential expertise in policy making. The research is underpinned by rights-based public patient involvement (PPI) with recorded discussions, which were transcribed and imported into NVivo 12, generating the theme “recognition in research, policy and society”. This co-created article, with the LGBT+ young PPI Panel members, commends the inclusion of SOGI data in GUI and recommends changes in question placement and phrasing. Aligning with best practice, the PPI members provide a template for wording on consecutive sex and gender questions, expanded sexual orientation identity categories and maintaining the existing well-phrased transgender question from GUI. This offers potential to improve the quality of the SOGI data collected and the experience of those completing the questionnaire. These findings extend beyond GUI, with relevance for surveys with youth populations. This paper underscores the potential and benefits of participatory approaches to research with youth and views their role beyond simply as sources of data. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue LGBTIQ+ Youth: Experiences, Needs, and Aspirations)

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16 pages, 296 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring the Educational Life Histories of Australian Transgender Faith-Based Secondary School Graduates

by Mark Vicars and Jarrod Wolfe

Youth 2023, 3(1), 217-232; https://doi.org/10.3390/youth3010015 - 13 Feb 2023

Viewed by 2581

Abstract

In this paper we draw on stories of schooling as told by three transgender secondary school graduates. The study does not aim to be generalizable or ‘speak’ for the educational experiences of all Australian transgender-identifying students. The study is framed by first person [...] Read more.

In this paper we draw on stories of schooling as told by three transgender secondary school graduates. The study does not aim to be generalizable or ‘speak’ for the educational experiences of all Australian transgender-identifying students. The study is framed by first person articulations of what a trans-positive educational experience might involve. The paper leverages a life-history approach in which the participants rearticulate the influence that cisnormative school environments and media practices had on their transition timeframes. Throughout the life-history interviews conducted in a focus group, the participants considered the concept of how a trans-positive educational approach could be deployed in schools to develop services and resources that align with the findings of the National LGBTIQ Health Alliance, 2020. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue LGBTIQ+ Youth: Experiences, Needs, and Aspirations)

18 pages, 1218 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Queer Young People and Couchsurfing: Entry Pathways, Service Provision, and Maintenance Strategies

by Katie Hail-Jares

Youth 2023, 3(1), 199-216; https://doi.org/10.3390/youth3010014 - 10 Feb 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3920

Abstract

Previous research into queer or LGBTQ+ youth homelessness has relied upon samples recruited from shelters or the streets; such strategies might miss the experiences of young people who are couchsurfing. Couchsurfing is a growing form of homelessness in many countries, including Australia. Here, [...] Read more.

Previous research into queer or LGBTQ+ youth homelessness has relied upon samples recruited from shelters or the streets; such strategies might miss the experiences of young people who are couchsurfing. Couchsurfing is a growing form of homelessness in many countries, including Australia. Here, drawing upon interviews with 31 young queer people, aged 16–27, who are or have recently couchsurfed, we map out their entry into homelessness, their previous use of social services, and their strategies for maintaining accommodation while couchsurfing. Respondents typically entered homelessness following a complex array of factors including deteriorating mental health, escalating family alienation, and stigmatisation following coming out. Once couchsurfing, most young people did not access services as they did not view themselves as homeless. Those who did were often told they were less of a priority given their roofed status. Finally, interviewees reported trading chores, rent, or sex to maintain housing. The difference between sex work and sexual exchange, as explained by young people, is also discussed. We conclude by suggesting a harm-reduction approach to understanding and serving young people. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue LGBTIQ+ Youth: Experiences, Needs, and Aspirations)

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14 pages, 2150 KiB

Open AccessArticle

LGBTQ2S+ Youth Perspectives on Mental Healthcare Provider Bias, Standards of Care, and Accountability

by Michael Chaiton, Rachel Thorburn, Megan Sutton and Patrick Feng

Youth 2023, 3(1), 93-106; https://doi.org/10.3390/youth3010006 - 12 Jan 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3783

Abstract

This study explores the experiences of LGBTQ2S+ youth while accessing mental health and substance use care services during the COVID-19 pandemic. Through a series of facilitated virtual meetings, 33 LGBTQ2S+ youth from across Ontario participated in collaborative activities to identify barriers they have [...] Read more.

This study explores the experiences of LGBTQ2S+ youth while accessing mental health and substance use care services during the COVID-19 pandemic. Through a series of facilitated virtual meetings, 33 LGBTQ2S+ youth from across Ontario participated in collaborative activities to identify barriers they have experienced when accessing mental health services, as well as potential solutions to these barriers. Discussions were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using thematic analysis. The study revealed that LGBTQ2S+ youth disproportionately experience bias, discrimination, and heteronormative assumptions when accessing mental health services, resulting in negative care experiences. Youth also reported insufficient availability of quality care, little continuity in care, and a lack of educated providers capable of effectively addressing the needs of the community. Potential solutions proposed by youth include training resources for providers, LGBTQ2S+ specific care centers, better continuity of care, and assessments to ensure care providers are culturally competent. These results show the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the disparities LGBTQ2S+ youth experience when accessing mental health services and highlight the urgent need to implement policies and programs that will advance the standards of care for LGBTQ2S+ youth. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue LGBTIQ+ Youth: Experiences, Needs, and Aspirations)

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23 pages, 302 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Conceptualising Wellbeing for Australian Aboriginal LGBTQA+ Young People

by Shakara Liddelow-Hunt, Ashleigh Lin, James Hector Laurent Hill, Kate Daglas, Braden Hill, Yael Perry, Mirella Wilson and Bep Uink

Youth 2023, 3(1), 70-92; https://doi.org/10.3390/youth3010005 - 12 Jan 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 4727

Abstract

It is likely that young people who are both Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and LGBTQA+ would be at increased risk for poor mental health outcomes due to the layered impacts of discrimination they experience; however, there is very little empirical evidence focused [...] Read more.

It is likely that young people who are both Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and LGBTQA+ would be at increased risk for poor mental health outcomes due to the layered impacts of discrimination they experience; however, there is very little empirical evidence focused on the mental health and wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander LGBTQA+ young people. The current study represents a qualitative exploration of wellbeing among Aboriginal LGBTQA+ young people. This study consisted of semi-structured interviews and focus groups with Aboriginal LGBTQA+ young people aged 14–25 years old in the Perth metropolitan area of Western Australia. Thematic analysis identified seven major themes that were significant to participants’ wellbeing: identity, family, community, visibility, services, stigma and navigating. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue LGBTIQ+ Youth: Experiences, Needs, and Aspirations)

20 pages, 469 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Radical Healing in Precarity: LGBTQ+ Young People’s Approaches to Life Challenges and Aspirations through Pet Caregiving in the Context of Homelessness

by Rachel M. Schmitz, Sarvi Amjadi, Jennifer Tabler and Jonathan Ishoy

Youth 2023, 3(1), 50-69; https://doi.org/10.3390/youth3010004 - 11 Jan 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 4543

Abstract

Homelessness remains an enduring challenge for people from all backgrounds, and lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and/or queer (LGBTQ+) young people disproportionately experience housing instability. Navigating structural oppressions tied to both their identities as well as economic inequalities can shape multiple mental health stressors [...] Read more.

Homelessness remains an enduring challenge for people from all backgrounds, and lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and/or queer (LGBTQ+) young people disproportionately experience housing instability. Navigating structural oppressions tied to both their identities as well as economic inequalities can shape multiple mental health stressors for LGBTQ+ young adults. Despite these struggles, LGBTQ+ young people continue to persevere and hope, and their aspirations often prioritize processes of recovery. Healing pathways may involve forging bonds with pets or companion animals, which can be precarious in the context of homelessness. Through a radical healing framework, we qualitatively uplift the perspectives of 17 LGBTQ+ young adults (18–24) to illustrate how they may develop their wellbeing through pet caregiving and aspiration building while homeless. Participants highlighted the structural constraints of homelessness creating barriers to aspirations such as pet caregiving, but also how pets promoted their emotional wellbeing and motivation to hold onto their dreams. Findings point to avenues of service and intervention development that center LGBTQ+ young people’s hopes and dreams in homelessness beyond a sole focus on basic needs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue LGBTIQ+ Youth: Experiences, Needs, and Aspirations)

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17 pages, 287 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring TGE Young Adults’ Experiences Seeking Health Information and Healthcare

by Melinda McCormick, Elissa Allen, Pamela J. Wadsworth and Berry Gulliver

Youth 2023, 3(1), 33-49; https://doi.org/10.3390/youth3010003 - 11 Jan 2023

Viewed by 2888

Abstract

The number of young adults who identify as transgender or gender expansive is rapidly growing in the U.S. Due to this rapid growth, healthcare providers are not properly informed on how to provide culturally competent healthcare and mental healthcare for this population. The [...] Read more.

The number of young adults who identify as transgender or gender expansive is rapidly growing in the U.S. Due to this rapid growth, healthcare providers are not properly informed on how to provide culturally competent healthcare and mental healthcare for this population. The sexual and gender-minority population has already been identified as a health-disparity population by the National Institutes of Health, so this lack of provider knowledge may add to the current health disparities of individuals who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer (LGBTQ+). In this research, we asked how young people who identify as transgender or gender expansive (TGE) seek information related to their health, mental health, and well-being and to understand how they connect to necessary resources to meet their healthcare needs. Participants responded to an online survey which included open-ended questions, and shared how they seek healthcare information and determine if that information is trustworthy. They also shared their own healthcare experiences and recommendations for their peers as they seek health and mental healthcare. Results indicate that many barriers to care still exist and that providers, agencies, and systems still have much work to do to meet the needs of this population. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue LGBTIQ+ Youth: Experiences, Needs, and Aspirations)

13 pages, 393 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Intricate Realities: Mental Health among Trans, Nonbinary, and Gender Diverse College Students

by E. B. Gross, Shanna K. Kattari, Rachelle Wilcox, Susan Ernst, Monique Steel and Diana Parrish

Youth 2022, 2(4), 733-745; https://doi.org/10.3390/youth2040052 - 13 Dec 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3805

Abstract

The rates of depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation have all increased among U.S. college students. The utilization of mental health services has also risen. Transgender/gender diverse (TGD) young people experience high rates of mental health concerns. Little is known regarding TGD students needing [...] Read more.

The rates of depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation have all increased among U.S. college students. The utilization of mental health services has also risen. Transgender/gender diverse (TGD) young people experience high rates of mental health concerns. Little is known regarding TGD students needing mental health services, if they are accessing them, and the differences in who accesses these services. This pilot study (N = 121), conducted online from 2021 to 2022, explores the mental health of the TGD students and the mental health services at a Midwest public university. Of the total sample, 68.1% described their mental health as being fair or poor. Disabled students were significantly more likely to self-report a negative mental health status (76.7%) than their non-disabled peers (58.9%). Nonbinary individuals were also significantly more likely to indicate negative mental health (79.5%) than their binary counterparts (47.6%). Notably, 6.6% of students with current depression diagnoses, 7.1% with current anxiety diagnoses, 11.8% with recent thoughts of NSSI, and 3.3% with recent suicide attempts had not accessed mental health services. This study indicates the need for more accessible TGD affirming mental health care for TGD students, and opportunities for innovation with interventions to better support TGD college and university students. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue LGBTIQ+ Youth: Experiences, Needs, and Aspirations)

14 pages, 265 KiB

Open AccessArticle

“We Just Want to Be Treated Normally and to Have That Healthcare That Comes along with It”: Rainbow Young People’s Experiences of Primary Care in Aotearoa New Zealand

by Alex Ker, Tracey Gardiner, Rona Carroll, Sally B. Rose, Sonya J. Morgan, Susan M. Garrett and Eileen M. McKinlay

Youth 2022, 2(4), 691-704; https://doi.org/10.3390/youth2040049 - 2 Dec 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 4347

Abstract

There is growing recognition that primary care provision plays a pivotal role in improving health outcomes for LGBTQIA+ (rainbow) youth, but few studies have centered on youth experiences of primary care in Aotearoa New Zealand. This study aimed to explore the experiences and [...] Read more.

There is growing recognition that primary care provision plays a pivotal role in improving health outcomes for LGBTQIA+ (rainbow) youth, but few studies have centered on youth experiences of primary care in Aotearoa New Zealand. This study aimed to explore the experiences and perspectives of rainbow youth when engaging with primary care. Two focus groups were held in 2021 with eleven rainbow young people aged 13–23 years recruited with assistance from local rainbow support organizations in Aotearoa NZ. Groups were audio-recorded, transcribed and analyzed using thematic analysis. Four main themes were identified: (i) anticipated and enacted discrimination, (ii) building trust, (iii) confidentiality and (iv) healthcare provider knowledge and competence. Participants spoke of some positive experiences but perceived these to be lucky or surprising, with most also having encountered less supportive interactions and heteronormative views. Visual indicators of rainbow-friendliness in clinic settings were appreciated only if affirmed by inclusive and accepting practice. Frustrations were expressed about gaps in provider knowledge and the sense of having to educate clinicians about rainbow-specific health issues. Primary care providers can facilitate positive consultations with rainbow young people by using clear communication to build trusting relationships, and by being accepting, non-judgmental and transparent about confidentiality. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue LGBTIQ+ Youth: Experiences, Needs, and Aspirations)

26 pages, 1647 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Beyond ‘Voice’ to ‘Learning with’: A Multiple Streams Policy Analysis and Qualitative Exploration Problematizing Representations of Young LGBT+ Identities

by Nerilee Ceatha, Ayrton Kelly, Tara Killeen, Katie McCabe, James Murray, Jayson Pope, Niamh Scully and Conor Buggy

Youth 2022, 2(4), 479-504; https://doi.org/10.3390/youth2040035 - 10 Oct 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 4183

Abstract

Hearing young voices is of paramount importance, particularly as some voices are seldom-heard, including those of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT+) youth. Recent research highlighting mental health disparities for these populations led to the formation of the Irish LGBTI+ National Youth Strategy, [...] Read more.

Hearing young voices is of paramount importance, particularly as some voices are seldom-heard, including those of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT+) youth. Recent research highlighting mental health disparities for these populations led to the formation of the Irish LGBTI+ National Youth Strategy, which prioritized youth participation through a Youth Advisory Group (YAG). A policy analysis of the initiation of the Strategy outlines the convergence of problems, policies and politics using a Multiple Streams Approach (MSA), with quantitative literature suggesting substantial vulnerabilities. This is enhanced through qualitative exploration of the views of six youth co-authors, with experiential expertise, and as YAG members. A university ethics committee granted approval for online recorded consultations via group, pair and individual interviews. The theme of ‘seen and heard’ highlighted unprompted discussions on discursive assumptions representing young LGBT+ identities almost solely in relation to mental health risk. These rich narratives problematize the (in)visibility and silence in representations of the diversity of LGBT+ youth identities, which may inadvertently reinforce stigma. This underscores the need for comprehensive and inclusive school curricula. While MSA may explain prioritization for policy initiation, participation potentially disrupts unintended negative consequences. This article concludes by emphasizing how ‘learning with’ LGBT+ young people can ensure research, policy and practice speaks directly to youth interests and concerns. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue LGBTIQ+ Youth: Experiences, Needs, and Aspirations)

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14 pages, 273 KiB

Open AccessArticle

“Shame, Doubt and Sadness”: A Qualitative Investigation of the Experience of Self-Stigma in Adolescents with Diverse Sexual Orientations

by Dylan Gilbey, Yael Perry, Ashleigh Lin and Jeneva Ohan

Youth 2022, 2(3), 352-365; https://doi.org/10.3390/youth2030026 - 23 Aug 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3421

Abstract

Many adolescents with diverse sexual orientations lead happy and fulfilled lives. However, evidence consistently suggests elevated rates of mental health difficulties in this population relative to heterosexual peers, and internalization of stigma (i.e., self-stigma) is implicated in these elevated rates. This study aimed [...] Read more.

Many adolescents with diverse sexual orientations lead happy and fulfilled lives. However, evidence consistently suggests elevated rates of mental health difficulties in this population relative to heterosexual peers, and internalization of stigma (i.e., self-stigma) is implicated in these elevated rates. This study aimed to understand and describe the lived experience of self-stigma with respect to participants’ sexual orientations. To do this, N = 21 semi-structured interviews were conducted with adolescents aged 14–18 who are attracted to the same gender, asking about how their stigma experiences affected their views of their sexual orientation, and themselves. A community reference group of young people with diverse sexual orientations was also consulted in the development of the study, and interpretation of the themes. Through thematic analysis of the self-stigma data and the consultation process, four themes were developed: (1) stigma is a precursor to self-stigma; (2) acceptance is a precursor to self-acceptance; (3) contents of self-stigma, characterized by two subthemes: (i) self-shame (comprised of feelings of abnormality, self-disgust and/or being a ‘bad’ person) and (ii) self-invalidation; and (4) self-stigma is painful and can be damaging. There is a contrast between the way that internalized homophobia is operationalized, and the way self-stigma was characterized in this study with young people, and conceptualizing and measuring self-stigma may need to be updated. Based on the analysis, we suggest four ways to address self-stigma and its impacts: (1) individual intervention; (2) increasing acceptance in families and communities; (3) providing respectful and normalizing sexuality education and information; and (4) overcoming community stigma. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue LGBTIQ+ Youth: Experiences, Needs, and Aspirations)

13 pages, 285 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Housing, Instability, and Discrimination amongst Takatāpui/LGBTIQ+ Youth in Aotearoa New Zealand

by Brodie Fraser, Terence Jiang, Hugo Cordue and Nevil Pierse

Youth 2022, 2(3), 339-351; https://doi.org/10.3390/youth2030025 - 22 Aug 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 4065

Abstract

Takatāpui/LGBTIQ+ people’s housing experiences are poorly understood in Aotearoa, New Zealand, including those of young people. We use data from an online survey to investigate experiences of homelessness, involuntary mobility, and housing-related discrimination amongst Takatāpui/LGBTIQ+ youth (n = 334). Multiple linear regression [...] Read more.

Takatāpui/LGBTIQ+ people’s housing experiences are poorly understood in Aotearoa, New Zealand, including those of young people. We use data from an online survey to investigate experiences of homelessness, involuntary mobility, and housing-related discrimination amongst Takatāpui/LGBTIQ+ youth (n = 334). Multiple linear regression analysis shows a significant relationship between homelessness scores and experience of state care, involuntary mobility, and housing discrimination. Furthermore, these young people had high rates of poverty (57% reporting an annual income below NZD 20,000), involuntary mobility (56%), housing-related discrimination (55%), and lifetime experiences of homelessness (31%). These findings highlight the difficulties that Takatāpui/LGBTIQ+ young people face in the housing market, emphasising the need for targeted programs and policies to meet their needs and prevent homelessness from occurring. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue LGBTIQ+ Youth: Experiences, Needs, and Aspirations)

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