Effects of an LGBTQ identity and support systems on mental health: a study of 4 theories

Author

Aubryn Samaroo, Brown University

Periodical Title

Modern Psychological Studies

Volume

22

Number

2

Page Numbers

pages 20-27

Department

Dept. of Psychology

Publisher

University of Tennessee at Chattanooga

Place of Publication

Chattanooga (Tenn.)

Date

2017

Abstract

Sexual minority adolescents (LGBTQ) are at a higher risk of depression, suicidal ideation, and suicidal execution than are their heterosexual counterparts. This study aims to explain four theories – minority stress theory, social ties theory, interpersonal theory of suicide, and structuration theory – and their impact on identity and support systems for LGBTQ youth. Four members of the LGBTQ community at an elite university in the Northeastern United States were interviewed one-on-one for this study (25% lesbian, 50% queer females, and 25% bisexual female; mean age 20 years) and shared their experiences. Without support, LGBTQ youth are victims of harassment, bullying, microaggressions, and other types of victimization that can result in deteriorating mental health.

Subject

Psychology

Keyword

LGBTQ; depression; suicide

Discipline

Psychology

Document Type

article

DCMI Type

Text

Extent

8 leaves

Language

English

Call Number

BF1 .M63 v. 22 no. 2 2017

Rights

http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/

Recommended Citation

Samaroo, Aubryn (2017) "Effects of an LGBTQ identity and support systems on mental health: a study of 4 theories," Modern Psychological Studies: Vol. 22: No. 2, Article 4.
Available at: https://scholar.utc.edu/mps/vol22/iss2/4