Internalized homonegativity and mental health among sexual minority couples and parents

Bibliographic Data

ID21621454
AuthorsGeva Shenkman (0000-0002-5263-8888, Reichman University, corresponding author), Kfir Ifrah (0000-0002-4982-2406, Ruppin Academic Center), Yuval Shaia (Reichman University), Maya Lusky (Reichman University), Or Samahov (Hadassah Academic College), Matan Wiener
Year2024
Volume43
Issue32
Pages26178-26192
Publication date2024-08-01
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueCurrent Psychology (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 1046-1310 • E-ISSN: 1936-4733
PublisherSpringer Science and Business Media LLC (PUBLISHER)
DOI10.1007/s12144-024-06281-1
OpenAlexW4400469238
LanguageEN
Citations received3
References cited67

This study examined the indirect effect of relationship and parental status on mental health through internalized homonegativity among lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) individuals. Prior research suggested that being in a relationship and becoming a parent may improve the mental health of LGB individuals, acting as protective factors against stigma and discrimination. However, the role of internalized homonegativity in mental health disparities between LGB individuals in relationships/parents and those who are not remains unclear. Therefore, we surveyed 491 LGB cisgender Israelis aged 18–64 years ( M = 33.51, SD = 9.09) assessing relationship status, parental status, internalized homonegativity, depressive symptomatology, and life satisfaction. Indirect effects were explored using the PROCESS macro. Results showed that LGB individuals in romantic relationships reported lower depressive symptomatology and higher life satisfaction compared to those not in relationships. Similarly, LGB individuals who were parents reported lower depressive symptomatology and higher life satisfaction compared to non-parents. Significant indirect effect was found for couplehood/parenthood on depressive symptomatology/life satisfaction through internalized homonegativity. This study deepens the understanding of the interplay between couplehood, parenthood, and internalized homonegativity and their contribution to mental health of LGB individuals. It provides valuable insights for researchers and practitioners, highlighting the potential role of couplehood and parenthood in the mental health of sexual minority groups facing legal restrictions on marriage and parenting

Anxiety · Depressive symptoms · Developmental psychology · Lesbian · Life satisfaction · Mental health · Psychiatry · Clinical Psychology · Family Dynamics and Relationships · LGBTQ Health, Identity, and Policy · Psychology · Reproductive Health and Technologies · Social Psychology

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