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Research indicates that interpersonal discrimination contributes to mental problems among sexual minorities. However, little attention has been given to subtle discrimination and witnessing discrimination. This study examines the relationship among sexual orientation, experiencing and witnessing hostility (e.g., verbal threats), incivility (e.g., dirty looks), heterosexist harassment (e.g., homophobic names), and moderate/high anxiety and depression symptoms among college students. Results indicated that experiencing hostility, incivility, and heterosexist harassment each partially mediated the relationship between sexual minority status and anxiety. Similar relationships were found for experiencing incivility and heterosexist harassment and depression. Witnessing hostility and heterosexist harassment partially mediated anxiety among sexual minority students. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Objective: The investigators examined the health and well-being correlates of hearing the popular phrase “that's so gay” among gay, lesbian, and bisexual (GLB) emerging adults. Participants: Participants were 114 self-identified GLB students aged 18 to 25 years. Methods: An online survey was distributed to students at a large public university in the Midwest during winter 2009. Results: Participants’ social and physical well-being was negatively associated with hearing this phrase, specifically feeling isolated and experiencing physical health symptoms (ie, headaches, poor appetite, or eating problems). Conclusions: College professionals and student leaders must acknowledge that the phrase is a form of heterosexist harassment. As such, policies addressing diversity and harassment should address students’ use of this phrase, aiming to reduce its use. Additionally, colleges and universities should develop practices that counteract poorer well-being associated with hearing the phrase. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]