Abstract

GOMES, Gonçalo; COSTA, Pedro Alexandre  and  LEAL, Isabel. Impact of sexual stigma and coming out on sexual minorities’ health. Psic., Saúde & Doenças [online]. 2020, vol.21, n.1, pp.97-103. ISSN 1645-0086.  https://doi.org/10.15309/20psd210115.

This study’s purpose was to assess the impact of internalized stigma, felt stigma, and coming out levels on mental and physical health of LGBT+ people. Method: A quantitative methodology with non-probability convenience online sampling was used. The sample consisted of 313 LGBT+ participants aged 25 to 59 years (M = 35.94; SD = 8,366). The Homosexual Identity Scale, the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale, the Suicidal Ideation subscale from the QIAIS-A and the Safe Sex Behaviour Questionnaire were used. Results: Higher levels of self-stigma and lower levels of coming out were associated with greater psychological distress. Higher levels of self-stigma and coming out were associated with higher suicidal ideation. Lower levels of coming out and higher levels of self-stigma were associated with greater involvement in sexual risk behaviours. Discussion: The results from the present study reinforced the importance of reducing sexual stigma and the key role that psychological intervention can play in improving the health of sexual minorities, namely how impactful psychological intervention can be on internalized stigma and in the coming out process.

Keywords : LGBT; Health; Homophobia; Heterosexism; Adults.

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