Discrimination has psychologically distressing effects in sexual minority individuals (SMI). Based on literature regarding minority stress, minority strengths and relational cultural theory (RCT),...Show moreDiscrimination has psychologically distressing effects in sexual minority individuals (SMI). Based on literature regarding minority stress, minority strengths and relational cultural theory (RCT), we suggest community identification processes and the ability to claim equal rights as protective factors against minority stressors. In this relationship, we suggest beliefs in deserving equal rights to play a central role. In this study, we investigated whether exploring the meaning of one’s identity as SMI, so-called sexual minority identity achievement (SMIA), predicts assertiveness, the readiness to claim equal rights. We further investigated whether self-respect, the belief in having equal rights, mediates this relationship. This secondary data analysis of a cross-sectional survey (N = 344) focused on a sample of SMI. Assertiveness was measured with the Negative Assertion subscale of the revised Interpersonal Competence Questionnaire, SMIA was measured with the Identity Achievement subscale of the Multi-Ethnic Identity Measure adapted for sexual minority individuals, and self-respect was measured with a self-respect measure. Contrary to the hypothesis, multiple regression analysis found no significant relationship between SMIA and assertiveness. However, when including self-respect as a mediator, we found SMIA to positively predict assertiveness. Mediation analysis further found that self-respect partially mediates the effect of SMIA on assertiveness. Specifically, SMIA was found to negatively predict self-respect, contrary to the hypothesis, while self-respect positively predicted assertiveness, as hypothesized. From these findings, it follows that both SMIA and self-respect independently predict assertiveness. Furthermore, potential pathways of SMIA affecting self-respect are considered in the context of RCT and implications for future research are discussed.Show less
There is no question that there is great disparity in mental health and overall well-being between heterosexual people and people of sexual minority. Sexual minority individuals experience...Show moreThere is no question that there is great disparity in mental health and overall well-being between heterosexual people and people of sexual minority. Sexual minority individuals experience significantly more stressors in their daily life, which can lead to psychopathology. However, well-being is not just about surviving, it is also about thriving. Indeed, many people who face difficulties due to their minority status, manage to thrive. The goal of the current study was to look into the elements that foster psychological well-being and resilience in the face of adversity. The first hypothesis examined if early sexual identity disclosure predicts psychological well-being. The second hypothesis examined if that effect is positively mediated by identity affirmation. The 314 participants of sexual minority provided measures on psychological well-being, identity affirmation and sexual identity disclosure. The results of our analyses were not in line with the theoretical background, therefore, our hypotheses were not supported. However, a significant association between age of sexual identity disclosure and identity affirmation was found. Future research could investigate further this finding since there is lack of research on the age of sexual identity disclosure and the impact it has on other psychological processes.Show less
Research shows that sexual minorities (SMI) are at higher risks of developing mental health problems. However, there is little knowledge about what helps SMI to thrive, which is why it crucial to...Show moreResearch shows that sexual minorities (SMI) are at higher risks of developing mental health problems. However, there is little knowledge about what helps SMI to thrive, which is why it crucial to find new factors that could protect their mental wellbeing. Previous studies showed that parental acceptance is one protective factor while religiosity represents a risk factor for the psychological wellbeing of SMI. This study investigates whether parental acceptance mediates the relationship between religiosity and psychological wellbeing of SMI. 186 participants who identify as sexual minorities filled out an online survey which was analyzed. A mediation analysis showed that contrarily to the hypothesis, parental acceptance was not found to act as a mediator (however, it was found that higher parental acceptance does predict higher psychological wellbeing of sexual minorities). Religiosity was found neither to be corelated to Parental acceptance (r(184) = -0.1, p= .18), nor to Psychological Wellbeing (r(184) =-0,06, p=.42). The effect of religiosity on wellbeing correcting for parental acceptance (indirect effect number) was found to be insignificant, (t = -0.66, p = 0.5). Moreover, the effect of religiosity on wellbeing (direct effect number) was also found to be insignificant (t = -1.04 p = .297). Limitations of the study included the fact that only few of the participants identified as religious and hence further studies should focus on religious communities.Show less
Sexual minorities (SM) are at higher risk for various adverse health outcomes. The minority stress model identified possible variables that lead to mental distress in the sexual minority population...Show moreSexual minorities (SM) are at higher risk for various adverse health outcomes. The minority stress model identified possible variables that lead to mental distress in the sexual minority population. Various positive aspects on the contrary like resilience and mental flexibility might support SM’s psychological wellbeing. Within the framework of relational cultural theory, which states that striving for beneficial interpersonal connection is essential for growth and wellbeing, these variables might have a potential influence in reshaping SM’s relationships to others and thus, amending overall wellbeing. The aim of this study was to observe the effects and its interaction of resilience and psychological flexibility on wellbeing in order to potentially substantiate the consequences it might have on social aspects of SMI. It was hypothesized that resilience would exert a significant positive effect on wellbeing and further, a positive partial or full mediation through mental flexibility would be observed in this study. A secondary data analysis from 345 participants and three questionnaires was conducted: the Brief Resilience Scale, the Multidimensional Psychological Flexibility Inventory and the Oxford Happiness Questionnaire Short- Form . A regression- and mediation analysis was conducted. The results demonstrated a significant total effect of resilience on wellbeing. Resilience significantly predicted wellbeing (β= .31, p< .001). An indirect effect and a partial mediation effect of psychological flexibility between resilience and wellbeing was furthermore observed. All results were in line with the hypotheses. The combined effects of resilience and mental flexibility on wellbeing in SMI were evident in this study which is in line with previous literature. Thus, they might be important mental components in dealing with adversity in SM as (consciously) ameliorating views into a constructive direction on relational situations and thus strengthening resilience through incremental social support might finally yield the desired benefits that SMI often still lack despite growing awareness of the general state of wellbeing.Show less
