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Physical activity (PA) has a variety of well-established benefits for physical and mental health. However, there are PA disparities based on numerous sociodemographic characteristics, including sexual orientation. Mapping of PA interventions tailored to sexual minorities (ie, nonheterosexual) is currently absent from the literature. Purpose: The purpose of this scoping review was to summarize the existing interventions focused on promoting PA among sexual minority (SM) adults. Methods: A search strategy was developed in consultation with a research librarian for PubMed, Web of Science, SportDiscus, and CINAHL. The scoping review was conducted using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews guidelines. Randomized and nonrandomized interventions that focused on increasing PA among SM adults were included. Data on study design, sample demographics, purpose of research, methodology, intervention components, theory-based constructs used, PA measures, and outcomes of the intervention were extracted. Results: Our search yielded 7289 articles, with 26 articles requiring full-text review. Four interventions were identified that focused on increasing PA among SM adults, with 2 focusing on lesbian/bisexual women, 1 focusing on lesbian/gay cancer survivors, and 1 focusing on men who have sex with men. Two of the 4 studies were successful at increasing PA, with varying psychosocial theories (ie, social cognitive theory and theory of reasoned action) and intervention strategies (ie, PA counseling, group meetings, and pedometers). Conclusion: Findings of this review demonstrate a clear lack of PA interventions targeting SM adults, limiting the available knowledge required for preventionists, practitioners, and health care professionals to effectively promote PA through behavioral modification among this group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

IntroductionSexual minority (e.g., bisexual, gay, lesbian, queer) and gender minority (e.g., transgender, non-binary, gender expansive) individuals (SGMI) experience higher rates of alcohol and other substance use disorders than their heterosexual and cisgender (i.e., non-transgender) counterparts. 12-Step programs are currently the most common source of support for alcohol and other substance use-related problems in the United States. Little is known about rates and levels of participation and outcomes of SGMI in 12-Step programs. Examining SGMI with a lifetime alcohol or other substance use disorder, this study aims to: 1) describe lifetime attendance rates (any vs. none) and levels of participation (number of program activities) in 12-Step groups among SGMI overall and compare rates of attendance and levels of participation across sexual and gender minority identities and 2) determine how lifetime level of participation in 12-Step programs relates to past-year alcohol and other substance use outcomes.MethodsWe used data collected through The PRIDE Study, a national, large-scale, longitudinal health study of adult SGMI, administering supplemental questions to assess alcohol and other substance use disorders and 12-step participation. Zero-Inflated Negative Binomial models (N = 1353) run with sexual and gender identities as predictors of lifetime 12-step attendance (yes/no) and level of 12-Step participation determine if greater levels of 12-Step participation were associated with lower levels of past-year Alcohol and Substance Use Disorder (AUD & SUD) symptoms. The study ran models for those with lifetime AUD (n = 1074) and SUD (n = 659) separately.ResultsParticipants who engaged in greater levels of 12-Step participation had lower levels of past-year AUD and SUD symptoms. Gay and queer respondents with AUD were more likely and lesbian respondents with SUD were less likely than other participants to have ever participated in 12-Step programs. All other associations between sexual/gender identities and 12-Step participation disappeared when age was added to the model.ConclusionsThis study provides preliminary evidence that 12-Step participation may be an effective resource for reducing AUD and SUD symptoms among SGMI. Younger SGMI and SGMI holding sexual/gender identities other than gay and queer may require additional support to initiate participation in 12-Step programs.

ObjectivesTo evaluate the prevalence of weight discrimination (the perception of being treated unfairly based on weight) and its sociodemographic associations among early adolescents aged 10 to 13 in the United States.MethodsWe analyzed cross-sectional data from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) Study in Year Two (2018-2020). Multivariable logistic regression analyses were conducted, with perceived weight discrimination as the dependent variable and age, sex, sexual orientation, race and ethnicity, body mass index (BMI) category, household income, and highest parental education level as adjusted independent variables. Interaction with BMI category and weight discrimination by sex, sexual orientation, race and ethnicity, and household income was tested for.ResultsIn our analytical sample (N = 7129), we found that 5.46 % of early adolescents reported experiencing weight discrimination. Adolescents with BMI percentile ≥95th (adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 6.41; 95 % confidence interval [CI], 4.71-8.70),

Background: LGBTQ+ youth engage in organized physical activity to a lesser degree than their cisgender and heterosexual counterparts. Existing literature on this organized physical activity disparity is limited, particularly with LGBTQ+ youth samples. The current analysis examined individual and systemic barriers to organized physical activity for LGBTQ+ youth across sexual, gender, and racial identities. Methods: A subsample of LGBTQ+ students (N = 4566) from the 2021 Dane County Youth Assessment completed items that measured barriers to organized physical activity and systemic factors (ie, family money problems and bias-based bullying) associated with access to organized physical activity. Latent class analysis discerned patterns of individual and systemic barriers to organized physical activity. Latent class regression modeling tested gender, sexual, and racial identities as correlates of latent class membership. Results: More than half of the sample did not participate in organized physical activity. Four profiles of LGBTQ+ youth were discerned based on self-reported barriers: high barrier (8%), bullied (16%), low interest or perceived skills (28%), and low barrier (48%). The low-barrier class included a greater proportion of LGBTQ+ youth who identified as White, or cisgender, or heterosexual as well as youth self-reporting higher organized physical activity. The high-barrier and bullied classes comprised more marginalized gender and sexual identities. Conclusions: LGBTQ+ youth experience individual and systemic barriers to organized physical activity, including inequitable access and bullying, and barriers are uniquely experienced across sexual, gender, and racial identities. Physical activity promotion among LGBTQ+ youth would be strengthened by policies that address inequitable access to opportunities and bias-based bullying. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BackgroundRising overdose deaths globally and increased social isolation during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic may have disproportionately impacted people with human immunodeficiency virus (PWH) with substance use disorders (SUD). We examined trends in SUD risk among PWH before and after the COVID-19 shelter-in-place (SIP) mandate.MethodsData were collected between 2018 and 2022 among PWH enrolled across 8 US sites in the Centers for AIDS Research Network of Integrated Clinical Systems cohort. We evaluated changes in moderate/high SUD risk after SIP using interrupted time series analyses.ResultsThere were 7126 participants, including 21 741 SUD assessments. The median age was 51 (interquartile range, 39-58) years; 12% identified as Hispanic or Latino/Latina, 46% Black/African American, and 46% White. Moderate/high SUD risk increased continuously after the pandemic's onset, with 43% (95% confidence interval [CI], 40%-46%) endorsing moderate/high SUD risk post-SIP, compared to 24% (95% CI, 22%-26%) pre-SIP (P < .001). There were increases in the use of heroin, methamphetamine, and fentanyl, and decreases in prescription opioids and sedatives post-SIP. Further, there was a decrease in reported substance use treatment post-SIP compared to pre-SIP (P = .025).ConclusionsThe rising prevalence of SUD through late 2022 could be related to an increase in isolation and reduced access to substance use and HIV treatment caused by disruptions due to COVID-19. A renewed investment in integrated substance use treatment is vital to address the combined epidemics of substance use and HIV following the COVID-19 pandemic and to support resilience in the face of future disruptions.

Purpose: Sexual and gender minority (SGM) individuals may receive social support through active use of social media (i.e., posting and interacting). This study examined associations between active social media use, social support, and health indicators in a large sample of SGM adults in the United States. Methods: Data were derived from the 2017 wave of The PRIDE Study, a national cohort study of SGM health. SGM-identified adults reporting social media use (N = 5995) completed measures of active social media use, social support, depressive symptoms, cigarette smoking, hazardous drinking, sleep, and physical activity. Regression models examined main and interactive effects of active social media use and social support on health indicators. Results: The sample reported a moderate level of active social media use (mean [M] = 3.2 [1.0], scale = 1-5) and relatively high social support (M = 16.7 [3.3], scale = 4-20); 31.8% reported moderate-to-severe depressive symptoms. Participants with greater active social media use were more likely to experience depressive symptoms (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 1.18, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.10-1.26), cigarette smoking (AOR = 1.11, 95% CI = 1.01-1.22), insufficient sleep (AOR = 1.13, 95% CI = 1.06-1.21), and physical inactivity (AOR = 1.09, 95% CI = 1.02-1.15) than those with less active social media use. Active social media use did not significantly interact with social support to predict any health indicators (p values >0.159). Conclusions: Among SGM adults, active social media use was associated with several negative health indicators. Active social media use may increase health risks, or SGM adults with poor health may actively use social media to maintain social connections. Moderate active social media use may be compatible with health.

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, or similarly identified (LGBTQ+) people experience substantial mental health disparities compared to heterosexuals. The Lets Connect intervention was designed to improve mental health outcomes for LGBTQ+ people. This impact evaluation aimed to assess effectiveness of this intervention during its pilot phase, using a single arm pilot trial. Respondents completed baseline surveys at intervention start, a post survey on the last day of the intervention (at 6 weeks), then a follow-up survey 6 weeks after the intervention ended (at 12 weeks). Pre-post differences in outcomes were analyzed using paired t-tests, chi-square tests, and generalized estimating equations to evaluate impact on mental health outcomes at 6 and 12 weeks, and identify characteristics associated with loss to follow-up. The average value of all three outcome measures decreased substantially between the baseline and post surveys; all of these differences were highly statistically significant, and further decreased between the end of the intervention at 6 weeks and the 12 week follow-up survey. Lets Connect participants did experience substantial improvements in mental health outcomes, on average, between the start and end of this intervention. Further study of this intervention using a randomized design and control group is warranted.

BACKGROUND: Suicidal thoughts and behaviors (STBs) are prevalent within the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queers (LGBTQ) community, often exacerbated by challenges in accessing care and the perceived stigma and discrimination tied to disclosing ones identity. Digital health interventions that offer psychosocial self-help present a promising platform to reach individuals at risk of STBs, especially those who may not engage with conventional health services. This review aimed to assess the role of digital-based intervention in reducing STBs among LGBTQ individuals. METHODS: We conducted a systematic literature search from three databases, PsycINFO, PubMed, and CINHAL, from 1st Jan 1990 to 31st December 2023. The review encompassed studies investigating the feasibility, acceptability, and impact of digital interventions on STBs, employing randomized control trials (RCTs), pseudo-RCTs, observational pre-posttest designs, and qualitative studies. Potential bias was evaluated using the McGill Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT). RESULTS: Five non-overlapping studies were included, reporting data from 777 participants. The studies featured diverse types of digital interventions, including videos, online writing, and mobile applications. The studies included three RCTs, and two qualitative studies. Across most of these studies, notable enhancements or reductions in the proportion of participants reporting STBs were observed post-intervention, alongside improvements in help-seeking intentions. The findings underscored that the applications used in the studies were engaging, acceptable, and deemed feasible in effectively addressing suicide prevention among the LGBTQ community. CONCLUSION: Overall, digital interventions were found to be feasible and acceptable in suicide prevention among LGBTQ communities, demonstrating preliminary efficacy in increasing help-seeking behavior when experiencing suicidal thoughts and in reducing STBs. Therefore, advocating for widespread promotion and dissemination of digital health interventions is crucial, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) with limited access to health services and heightened barriers to obtaining such services. Further research using fully powered RCT is imperative to assess the efficacy of these interventions.

Prejudice against LGBTQ people during their schooling years can be detrimental due to its long-term consequences. This includes the development of beliefs that the world is unsafe, which can perpetuate mental health struggles later in life. Fostering a school environment where LGBTQ people can express their identity can contribute to greater well-being. This qualitative study drew on interviews with 13 school graduates to examine the environmental factors within Australian schools that influenced LGBTQ students' expression of their identity. Drawing on Altman's conceptualization of oppression and liberation, this study found students typically experienced liberation in the form of acceptance and validation within their micro-environment at school. This micro-environment was composed of those close to the student, such as friends, allies, teachers, and other LGBTQ students who provided acceptance and validation, which enabled the student to express their identity regardless of oppression within the broader school environment. Oppression on the other hand originated from the invisibility of LGBTQ identities; the limited representation in curriculum and access to LGBTQ-specific resources and supports; concerns around gendered, gender-neutral, and safe spaces; and limited support from teachers. Based on the findings, implications are drawn to enhance both the micro and macro environment for LGBTQ school students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aims of this study were to identify Australian mental health practitioners' knowledge of what LGBTQA+ conversion practices are and their perceptions of impacts on survivors. We interviewed 18 mental health workers from a range of clinical modalities who were practicing in Australia. We used reflexive thematic analytic techniques to identify themes that characterized Australian mental health practitioners' knowledge of LGBTQA+ conversion practices and perceptions of the impacts of such practices on survivors. Practitioners' understandings of what constitutes LGBTQA+ conversion practices were varied and derived from a range of sources, and practitioners' perceptions of the impacts that conversion practices had on survivors ranged from undeveloped to nuanced. Generalist and specialist practitioners provided vastly different responses. We identified the following four themes: (1) inexperienced practitioners' understandings were limited and reliant on stereotypes about conversion practices; (2) specialist practitioners' understandings were refined and match experiences reported by survivors; (3) generalist practitioners emphasized specific and undeveloped negative impacts; (4) specialist practitioners were aware of deeper harms and the need for sustained support. These themes may be translated into strategies to facilitate improved services offered by practitioners, which may assist survivors in managing and coping with the trauma associated with exposure to these practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our present and evolved understanding has challenged the previously synonymous use of the terms ‘sex’ and ‘gender’. We have moved beyond the binary categorization towards proliferation of gender identities. Thus, raising questions whether certain identities are traits or gender identities. This complexity of the issue is exacerbated by the cultural relativity of gender identity and by lack of a standardized list. Adopting a balanced approach, the article touches upon the prejudices against the gender minorities. Additionally, it touches upon the controversies surrounding gender identities and their development to ensure that the individuals can make more informed choices and engage in more meaningful discourse. It addresses issues of politicised debates, linguistic diversity, and the role of pharma industry in the sex-change procedures. The paradigm of gender has transcended the binary constructs in the contemporary discourse. However, it has ventured into unchartered territories revealing several unexplored facets that await scholarly investigation. The present paper critiques the concept of gender identities and the sociopolitical landscape surrounding it through the lens of Critical Theory. In conclusion, our understanding of gender is still limited and evolving. There is a need for adopting a more nuanced and informed approach to challenge the issues posed by this era of evolving gender expression and identities. The article concludes with policy recommendations based on insights gained from the article and suggestions for future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Companies seek to demonstrate their commitment to social issues, such as supporting the LGBTQ community, through their advertising. When a company engages in advertising that suggests a corporate commitment to the LGBTQ community but does not actually implement it, this is known as rainbowwashing. In two studies, we investigate when individuals perceive this type of woke washing in a social media influencer (SMI) context and the role played by influencer-message congruence and the identity of the recipients. Study 1, an online experiment (N = 113), shows that influencer-message congruence influences the perception of rainbowwashing, which leads to further consequences for the SMIs themselves. In Study 2, a second online experiment (N = 178), we were able to replicate these results and found that members of the LGBTQ community are generally more critical in evaluating advertising that relates to their community, while nonmembers perceive strong rainbowwashing especially when there is a mismatch between influencer and message. Based on our sample, our study provides important insights into the group of people affected by rainbowwashing. Public trust in advertising promises is low due to recent corporate scandals, especially among those directly affected. Companies should provide concrete evidence of their social commitment to restore this trust. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

LGBTQ communities around the world entered the COVID-19 pandemic with generally high rates of poor mental health and faced additional challenges including stigma, discrimination, and barriers to care. This study sample was drawn from a survey of 3135 LGBTQ adults residing in Australia during the pandemic. Regression analysis was used to explore individual differences in psychological distress and perceived change in mental wellbeing since the onset of the pandemic as well as the impact of lockdowns, by taking advantage of a natural experiment comparing the states that experienced more extensive lockdowns (Victoria and New South Wales) to the rest of Australia. The burden of mental health was found to vary across gender, sexual orientation, age, and area of residence. While no impact of lockdowns on psychological distress was observed, participants living in the states of Victoria (β = −0.15; 95% CI = −0.23, −0.07) and New South Wales (β = −0.13; 95% CI = −0.21, −0.05) self-reported a more negative impact of the pandemic on their mental wellbeing compared to the rest of the country. The findings suggest that the COVID-19 pandemic had a negative impact on the mental wellbeing of LGBTQ populations, particularly among those who experienced extensive lockdowns and highlight the need for increased efforts to enable access to mental health supports during times of crisis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In today's global media landscape, the integration of LGBTQ characters and storylines in children's television has transformed media representations for young audiences. However, little is known about the way parents evaluate this on-screen presence. By means of interview with 53 Flemish parents, this study uncovered a complex interplay of considerations related to children, media, gender, and sexuality. In terms of possible opportunities associated with LGBTQ characters, parents referred to possibilities of information, socialization, promoting prosocial behavior, and aiding identification. However, parents also harbored some concerns regarding characteristics of the viewers (children's young age and gender differences) as well as characteristics of these media representations (as to quantity, quality, and physicality between characters). Parents mentioned they were worried about the perceived maturity needed to comprehend what these LGBTQ characters represent, and they showed more discomfort with gender diversity (trans and non-binary characters) than sexual diversity (non-heterosexual characters). They also feared that an overabundance of LGBTQ references might prioritize "political correctness" over authentic representation, which moreover could confuse children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose Two-spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (2SLGBTQ+) people disproportionally experience health disparities, and hospital pharmacists, given their accessibility and expertise in medication management, are ideally positioned to provide care to this vulnerable population. This study investigated the barriers and facilitators faced by hospital pharmacists when providing care to 2SLGBTQ+ patients, with the goal of informing enhancement of quality care provided to these patients. Methods A mixed-methods triangulation design was utilized, comprising an online survey and qualitative interviews with Canadian hospital pharmacists. The survey used the lens of systemic oppression as a framework and assessed pharmacists' perceptions and knowledge. Survey data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and interviews were analyzed using thematic analysis. Results A total of 129 individuals participated in the survey, and 15 participants were interviewed. Eleven themes were identified, and findings revealed a complex web of individual, interpersonal, and systemic barriers and facilitators. Pharmacists expressed a lack of proficiency and confidence in discussing 2SLGBTQ+ health topics, further compounded by an apprehension to engage and a fear of causing harm. Pharmacists desired support from their leadership teams and organizations in the form of access to resources, time to engage in training, and workplace environments that encourage discussions about 2SLGBTQ+ health. Conclusion Hospital pharmacists in Canada are willing to provide inclusive care to 2SLGBTQ+ patients but face significant barriers. These findings highlight the need for comprehensive education, supportive workplace cultures, and accessible resources to address health disparities and improve care for 2SLGBTQ+ individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To evaluate the effectiveness of an e-learning training module for improving children's social workers' knowledge of, and attitudes toward, LGBTQ+ young people. Methods: A pragmatic randomized, CONSORT-compliant controlled trial to compare an intervention group (N = 304) with a business-as-usual comparison group (N = 310). After attrition, the analysis included 188 (intervention) and 278 (comparison) participants. The main outcome measures were the Heteronormative Attitudes and Beliefs Scale and a perceived LGBTQ+ knowledge measure, controlling for several covariates. Results: A significant effect of intervention on both outcome measures, using several rigorous analysis approaches and missing data imputation methods. Participants who undertook the training decreased their heteronormative attitudes and beliefs and increased their perceived LGBTQ+ knowledge compared to business as usual. Conclusion: This study demonstrates the effectiveness of an e-learning training intervention in improving knowledge of, and attitudes toward, LGBTQ+ young people. Implications for research, practice, and policy are outlined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article looks at the appropriation of cancel-culture activism by anti-queer parental rights activists online. By examining their digitally mediated anti-queer rhetoric, this paper studies how these activists drive public outrage to promote cultural censorship. Surveying digital campaigns by Libs of TikTok and Moms for Liberty, this paper analyzes how their media amplifies "grooming" and "pedophilia" discourses to dynamize older anti-queer stereotypes. Drawing upon the language of child protectionism from 1970s educational debates, this mediated rhetoric demonstrates how anti-queer activists have appropriated the social justice origins of cancel-culture online. By using social media to frame conservative activists as marginalized, these campaigns invert the history of anti-LGBTQ+ media and educational environments to rationalize anti-LGBTQ+ censorship. By looking at how this rhetoric flows from social media into conservative TV journalism, this paper uncovers how this digital activism shapes a broader reactionary media ecology with corrosive democratic effects in the United States. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Guided by lifestyles/routine activities and target congruence theories and using data from a campus climate survey from a large northeastern university, this study explored the influence of target (e.g., mental health, age, race), guardianship (e.g., relationship status, residency), and lifestyle characteristics (e.g., collegiate activities) on the risk of stalking victimization among 7,621 undergraduates. In addition to running models for the full sample, separate logistic regressions were completed for men (n = 3,544) and women (n = 4,077), and for those who identify as either lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, or queer (LGBTQ, n = 612) and those who do not (non-LGBTQ, n = 6,923). Results show target vulnerabilities including having lower scores on mental health and being younger increased victimization risk, guardianship factors including being married or living with parents or on campus reduced the risk of victimization, and lifestyle characteristics including participation in collegiate activities increased victimization risk. Consistent with prior research, those who identify as LGBTQ and women had higher odds of victimization than their respective counterparts. However, coefficient tests revealed only three risk factors varied significantly across sex (i.e., age and media activity) and LGBTQ status (i.e., mental health). Implications for research and campus policy are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study is to understand the intersection of race, gender, and sexual orientation through exploring the experiences of Asian American female sexual minority (AAFSM) college students in the U.S. Midwestern universities. We employed one of McCall's three intersectionality methodological approaches— intra-categorical complexity —to guide the study. The findings indicated that the AAFSM student participants had experienced intersectional objectifications, including racial, gendered, and sexual objectification. The finding answered our research question regarding what it is like to be AAFSM students attending predominantly White campuses in Midwestern universities. Our findings also showed that the participants intersectionally internalized racism, sexism, and heterosexism as strategies to avoid being ostracized, which in turn allowed society/institution to internalize these -isms as norms. The manifestations of intersectional internalizations reported by participants included racial stereotypes, Whitenization, stereotypical gender roles, gender norms, parental influence, and institutional influence. The findings also indicated that the participants experienced intersectional blindness, which affected their understanding of Asianness, womenness, and LGBTQness. Another meaningful finding was that the racism, sexism, and heterosexism experiences of the AAFSM students were compounded and complex. The theme was best categorized as intersectional post-racism-(hetero)sexism. We discussed intersectional internalization; de-intersectional-internalization; re-intersectional-internalization; intersectional visibilities, connections, and representations; the implementation of intersectionality; and intersectionalism. The discussions, as a milestone, provided meaningful suggestions for educators, administrators, and universities to effectively create an intersectional inclusive educational environment for AAFSMs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Training gaps regarding the diagnosis and management of eating disorders in diverse populations, including racial, ethnic, sexual, and gender minoritized groups, have not been thoroughly examined. Objective: This study aimed to examine resident physicians' knowledge and attitudes regarding eating disorders in diverse populations, with a focus on areas for improved training and intervention. Methods: Ninety-two resident physicians in internal medicine, emergency medicine, obstetrics/gynecology, psychiatry, and surgery at an academic center completed an online survey from 12/1/2020–3/1/2021, which comprised multiple choice and vignette-style open-ended questions to assess knowledge and attitudes toward the management and clinical presentations of eating disorders. Overall, the survey response rate was 25.7%. Descriptive statistics were reported. Vignette-style questions were analyzed using inductive coding and the frequency of responses was reported. Results: A minority of resident physicians self-reported confidence in their knowledge of the medical complications (n = 42, 45%), risk factors (n = 38, 41%), and clinical presentations (n = 32, 35%) associated with eating disorders. Responses to vignette-style questions correctly identified relevant management methods (such as electrolyte monitoring and referral to specialty care), but demonstrated limited knowledge of the clinical presentation of eating disorders. Furthermore, most respondents reported a lack of knowledge regarding eating disorders in sexual and gender minoritized patients (n = 68, 73.9%) as well as racial and ethnic minoritized patients (n = 64, 69.6%). Conclusions: Our findings suggest concerning gaps in knowledge and confidence among resident physicians with regard to the diagnosis and treatment of eating disorders, particularly in racial, ethnic, sexual, and gender minoritized patients. Moreover, responses to vignette-like questions indicate significant homogeneity in respondents' perceptions of the clinical presentation of eating disorders, reflecting cultural biases which associate eating disorders with underweight, young, female patients. The majority did not feel competent in treating eating disorders in diverse populations and expressed desire for additional training in this area. More research is needed to better understand and address these gaps in eating disorder training, with the goal of increasing equity in patient outcomes. Plain English Summary: We investigated the knowledge and attitudes of physicians in training regarding eating disorders in diverse populations, including racial, ethnic, sexual, and gender minoritized groups. Our study surveyed 92 physicians in training from various specialties and found concerning gaps in their self-reported understanding and confidence in the diagnosis and treatment of eating disorders, particularly in minoritized populations. The findings of the survey revealed several concerning trends. A significant portion of the resident physicians reported low confidence in their knowledge of the medical complications, risk factors, and clinical presentations of eating disorders. Although they recognized some management methods, they reported limited knowledge about how eating disorders affect racial, ethnic, sexual and gender minoritized patients. Overall, the findings indicate significant gaps in the training of these resident physicians regarding eating disorders, particularly for diverse populations, and many expressed a need for more training to improve their competence in this area. Further research is necessary to better understand and address these gaps to promote equity in outcomes for patients with eating disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractThis article provides a case study of The Lesbians and Policing Project [LesPop], a police monitoring organisation that existed in London between 1984 and 1990. Drawing on archives held at Glasgow Women’s Library, the article reviews the activities of LesPop and outlines its aims and objectives. We consider both its origins and its demise in the political context of Britain in the 1980s. In doing so, we argue that LesPop offers an important, and hitherto unexamined, contribution to lesbian history in Britain. Centralising the experiences of lesbians in London in an era of state-sanctioned homophobia, LesPop provides a case study in lesbian political and community organising and engagement with, or resistance to, the carceral state. Understanding how LesPop sought to monitor and research the police and in turn, educate and organise lesbians, reveals much about the regulation of sexuality in the pursuit of social order and illustrates the importance then, and now, of grassroots efforts to challenge homophobia and hold the police to account. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The quality of life of queer individuals in India is a result of a complex sociopolitical climate which is what this study aims to explore through qualitative methodology. Previous research has explored the social factors that impact the wellbeing of LGBT individuals in western countries, while the impact of politics on the wellbeing of marginalized groups is still largely unexplored. Through thematic analysis, this study found that family support and peer networks are the two most important social structures that determine the quality of life of LGBT emerging adults in India, whereas the impact of politics on wellbeing depends on the level of political awareness of the participants and their socio-political privilege in terms of caste, class and gender. However, there were significant differences in the relevant factors that affect the quality of life for cisgender and transgender participants which leaves room for further research. The findings indicate intra-community conflicts and changing dynamics within the community, and there needs to be extensive research on understanding the intersectionality of different identities within the community and their impact on the lives of queer individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Deliberate self-harm (DSH) is a high prevalence experience for lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, non-binary and queer (LGBTQ) youth. These behaviours are associated with significant morbidity and suicidality and constitute a risk factor for future impairment. Presently, there is little understanding about how DSH burden is distributed among LGBTQ youth in Australia, and how engagement is shaped by biographic factors. A national cross-sectional online survey was conducted involving 5,660 LGBTQ participants in Australia aged 14–21. Univariable logistic regression analyses were used to explore the factors associated with recent DSH. Independent variables included demographic traits as well as experiences of verbal, physical and sexual harassment and attachment to one’s school. DSH is strongly associated with suicidality and clinically significant psychological distress. Likelihood of recent (<12 months) engagement did not differ by sexual orientation but was more likely among trans and non-binary youth, with the highest odds of engagement noted among trans men. DSH engagement was significantly associated with most domains of harassment experiences (physical and sexual), but attachment to one’s school or educational appeared to exert a protective effect. DSH engagement is unevenly distributed among LGBTQ youths; interventions should focus on fostering a positive and inclusive educational environment for those most impacted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sexuality is a taboo discussion to bring to the surface, especially the topic of sexuality among early adolescents. The film Monster wraps how sexuality among teenagers becomes an engaging story to enjoy while exploring the perspectives of LGBTQ youth in their sexual exploration. This research uses C.S. Peirce's Semiotic Analysis, which introduces the triangle of meaning, with the aim of examining the forms of signs and meanings that represent homosexuality in early adolescence. Additionally, this study also examines the acceptance and rejection of homosexuality through the characters and observers in the film Monster. The research findings depict the experiences of LGBTQ youth as largely tragic due to an environment that does not support the existence of homosexuality. The film showcases subtle gestures from teenagers to express themselves as part of the LGBTQ community, such as coming out and closet identification. The purpose of this research is to provide a deeper understanding of the complexities of LGBTQ youth experiences and to identify the social signs that shape their representation in media. The implications of this research highlight the importance of more positive and inclusive representations in films and other media, as well as the need for greater societal support to create a safe environment for adolescents to express their sexual identities. Thus, this research is expected to serve as a reference in efforts to raise awareness and understanding of sexual issues among adolescents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Some Christians believe that God's creational norm for humanity is binary sex and gender, and that intersex or transgender variations resulted from humanity's fall into sin. Likewise, some Christians believe that conditions like hereditary deafness or Down syndrome would not exist were it not for the Fall. However, scientific study shows that some of these conditions are caused by physical and chemical processes that are inevitable consequences of how natural laws operate. This adds weight to theological arguments that they are intended parts of God's creation, included for human diversity. How we theologically classify congenital disabilities or gender nonconforming identities can profoundly affect how we treat individuals. Psychological studies demonstrate significant positive or negative consequences for physical and mental health of gender nonconforming individuals correlated with the theological views of their religious community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dating abuse research on lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) populations tends to aggregate LGB participants for comparisons with heterosexuals and often excludes nonassaultive dating abuse and abuse that takes place on online dating applications. In the present study, we used the Pew Research Center's 2019 American Trends Panel Wave 56 data set (n  = 4712) to compare ever experiencing several types of nonassaultive on- and offline dating abuse between bisexual women (n  = 402), lesbian women (n  = 207), heterosexual women (n  = 1802), bisexual men (n  = 225), gay men (n  = 575), and heterosexual men (n  = 1501). We found that gay men and bisexual women generally had the greatest odds of experiencing online dating abuse. Bisexual and heterosexual women had the greatest odds of experiencing some offline abuse (eg, being touched in an uncomfortable way), but gay men, bisexual women, and bisexual men had the greatest odds of experiencing other offline abuse (eg, having their contact information or a sexual image of them shared nonconsensually). Findings highlight how assessments of nonassaultive dating abuse in on- and offline contexts via analyses of more specified gender/sex and sexual identity groups can broaden understandings of dating abuse victimization, especially among sexual minority populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This qualitative study examines the experiences and functions of gender among people who do not identify their genders as exclusively either man or woman (e.g., genderfluid, nonconforming, agender, genderqueer, multigender, nonbinary people). In this paper, we use the term "not-binary" as an inclusive term that refers to these gender identities categorically. Semi-structured interviews with 17 participants living in the U.S. focused on meanings and functions of gender; processes of navigating intrapersonal, interpersonal, and sociopolitical experiences; and intersectional identities. Responses were analyzed using critical-constructivist grounded theory method (Levitt in Essentials of critical-constructivist grounded theory research, American Psychological Association, 2021). Findings revealed that participants intentionally engaged in processes of gender exploration, contestation, and transformation to deliberately challenge and reshape their own conceptualization of gender and that of others. Participants shared the meanings of their identities and pronouns for expressing their sense of self, and how they wished others to interact with them, as well as the complications of language for expressing genders that can be fluid and changing. In addition, participants conveyed the experience of having their gender identities politicized and their rights contested on the national stage. Expanding the transnormative narrative that focuses on gender dysphoria, participants highlighted affirming community and positive and euphoric gender experiences that supported them to engage in resistance to oppressive forces. These findings underscore the importance of education on not-binary experiences, the provision of gender affirming care, and the correction of public misinformation for the well-being of non-binary individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article argues that the 1990s was a distinctive period in the British queer experience. A perceived rise in violent homophobic attacks marks the decade out, as does the activist culture which emerged to counter it. The article argues that ideas of citizenship became an important vehicle for queer activists, especially when challenging legal inequalities such as the age of sexual consent for gay men. Queer citizenship campaigns highlighted the state of legislated inequality for queer Britons which was seen to be worsening during the 1990s. This article examines two main examples of such campaigns, grassroots direct-action movements and legal test cases, arguing that queer citizenship was an increasingly useful concept for queer activists and campaigners. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Sexual minority (SM) individuals experience a disproportionate health burden relative to their heterosexual peers; however, less is known about their experience of insomnia. Participants: The sample consisted of a subset of students, N = 1543, Mage = 21.25 years, SD = 3.95, in the 2019–2020 Healthy Minds Study. Adjusting for non-response weights, approximately 16.95% of the sample identified as a sexual minority. Methods: Participants completed measures of insomnia (Insomnia Severity Index) and psychopathology symptoms (PHQ-9 for depression and GAD-7 for generalized anxiety). Results: Sexual orientation was significantly positively associated with insomnia severity, such that SM students exhibited higher insomnia symptom severity, B = 1.71, SE = 0.35, p <.001, 95% CI [1.01, 2.40]. Including depression and anxiety symptom severity in the model completely attenuated this effect. Conclusions: Insomnia symptoms in SM students may be understood in the context of internalizing symptoms; however, study design precluded examining causal pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the context of the legacy of deficit‐focused research and application of theoretical models in research on minoritized groups that are underrepresented in the literature, we explored the strengths‐based literature among lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) people of color to develop a more inclusive and relevant understanding of how posttraumatic growth (PTG) occurs in this population. Our intersectional PTG model is tailored to the experiences of LGBTQ+ people of color that builds upon previous models of PTG, intersectionality theory, and empirical findings of trauma and PTG among LGBTQ+ people of color. Our intersectional PTG model incorporates the unique intrapersonal, interpersonal, institutional, and cultural factors that are unique to this population and contribute to PTG. We challenge the limited scope of Criterion A traumatic events and emphasize empirical findings that support that LGBTQ+ people of color often experience posttraumatic stress after oppression and discrimination. Our model also recognizes the impact of intersecting risk factors, such as gendered racism, that may occur on various levels. Our model acknowledges that LGBTQ+ people of color have often demonstrated PTG in the face of adversity. Intrapersonal factors such as cognitive flexibility, interpersonal factors such as social support, and institutional and cultural factors such as identity‐related activism are identified as key contributors to resilience. We discuss practice implications, highlighting that clinicians should recognize limitations of traditional trauma frameworks and adopt culturally sensitive approaches when working with LGBTQ+ people of color. Overall, our model provides a foundation for strengths‐based interventions and research, emphasizing resiliency and potential for PTG in this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Existing measures and theories of intimate partner coercive control largely evaluate men's coercion of women. The extent of knowledge pertaining to intimate relationships among other genders and sexual identities is unclear. Guided by a theoretical framework of intersectionality, we examined and synthesized original studies on coercive control by (perpetration) or against (victimization) Two Spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer, questioning, intersex, and asexual individuals within intimate partner relationships. We searched eight academic databases for records from 2014 through 2022 and hand-searched review articles' reference lists, supplemented with gray literature and website searches. Using duplicate screening, we identified 1,774 unique documents; 526 met preliminary eligibility criteria and 277 were retained for data extraction in duplicate. Coercive control was more common among minority individuals and was related to mental health challenges. Few studies reported on gender- or sexual-identity specific forms of coercive control, and an intersectional focus was uncommon. This review revealed a lack of agreed definition of coercive control or accepted standard of measurement, and a gap in research with individuals who identify as gender diverse, gender fluid or intersex, or those identifying their sexuality as asexual, pansexual, or sexually diverse. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Scholars often highlight the roles that group threat and intergroup solidarity play in shaping attitudes toward outgroups. Competition among social groups, including over values and culture, can underlie negative attitudes toward outgroups. Meanwhile, perceptions of discrimination against outgroups can drive feelings of solidarity, sympathy, or empathy, which may foster more positive attitudes. These social identity concepts are often studied in the context of racial, ethnic, and religious prejudice, with less attention to how they apply to attitudes toward transgender and gender diverse people. Using a 2022 national survey, we assess how respondents' perceptions of cultural threat from the LGBTQ community and perceptions of discrimination among a range of outgroups are related to attitudes about transgender rights policies, including access to public restrooms, participation in school sports, and medical transition care. We find that cultural threat is consistently associated with support for policies that restrict the rights of transgender people, but perceived outgroup discrimination tends not to show a significant relationship with these attitudes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increase in the online presence of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and Queer (LGBTQ) persons is astounding, despite the threat to their security, especially in the Nigerian context. Extending debates on linguistic and non-linguistic research on queer-sexuality, this paper examines the discursive patterns in the jokes of Nigerian standup comedians (NSCs), who occasionally project idiosyncratic ideologies about Nigerian LGBTQ persons. The argument advanced in this paper is that though LGBTQ contents are applied to challenge Nigerian laws against gender and sexual minorities, Nigerian humour producers continue to criminalise homosexuality and transgenderism comically. Using insights from Jacob Mey's Pragmatic Acts Theory (PAT) and Meyer's Superiority Theory of Humour (STH), this paper probes how pragmatic variables interact with humour strategies to tease out specific discursive tropes in the linguistic acts of NSCs. The selection of joke routines is purposive and based on Nigerian humour productions of "Pencil Unbroken Show" AY Live and African Kings of Comedy between 2013 and 2023 on YouTube media. Seven texts are selected and subjected to pragmatic and humour analysis. Ten discursive patterns alongside shared linguistic and situational knowledge, inferences, voice, reference and metaphor are deployed to demystify the motivations for queerness in Nigerian standup comedy. The study reflects aggression against queer-sexuality from the point of view of the Nigerian religious, political, socio-cultural and legal contexts. It also indicates that NSCs strive to enforce conservative standards and deploy humour as a corrective measure to identify LGBTQ persons as threats, offenders, victims, unfit, mentally unstable and illusive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a common mental health disorder with a lifetime prevalence of 20.6% among United States (US) adults. Multiple US surveys have shown a consistently higher burden of mental health struggles among lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, and questioning (LGBTQ+) adults compared to non-LGBTQ+ adults. However, it is not known whether diagnosis and treatment for those adults who do report symptoms of MDD differ based on sexual orientation. We test for differences in prevalence, diagnosis, and treatment of MDD in sexual minorities using appropriate multivariable logistic regression using the New York City Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NYC HANES). About 10% of NYC adults (≥ 20 years old) self-identify as a sexual minority and 8.5% of adults in NYC have MDD based on the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) score. Significantly higher proportion of sexual minorities in NYC have depression compared to non-sexual minorities (17.7% vs. 7.6%, p = 0.01). In the multivariable model, sexual minorities were 2.33 (CI = [1.24–4.39], p = 0.009) times more likely to have depression compared to non-sexual minorities. Additionally, people with multimorbidity were more likely to be diagnosed for depression (OR = 3.78, CI = [1.33, 10.75], p = 0.013). Disparities exist in the prevalence, diagnosis, and treatment of MDD in NYC adults. Targeted outreach toward the LGBTQ + community should be considered by public health officials when designing primary and secondary prevention programs for depression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The LGBTQ hotel selection criteria are considered one of the most important determinants to improve and maintain global hotel room occupancy. However, the existing literature has failed to offer a holistic taxonomy of such phenomenon because the current researchers have concentrated primarily on Western locations and overlooked Asian contexts. Gaining insights from the Asian context, Cambodia in particular, may provide a better picture of such a phenomenon. LGBTQ online comments on the TripAdvisor website were analyzed, and the findings suggest that six dimensions of customer value (condition, function, emotion, reputation, epistemic, and social value) are accountable for LGBTQ hotel selection criteria. The findings are important because they guide hoteliers in building their marketing strategies to attract this target market. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores how The Emerald City (1977–1979), an LGBTQ public access cable television show, represented the evolving sociopolitical and geographic contexts of New York City in the 1970s and mediated the concept "gay pride." Tracing its emplacement in New York alongside the development of cable television, this article discusses how the series played a role in producing dominant queer cultural imaginations of the city. Combining analysis of the show's episodes with archival research and interviews with The Emerald City co-producer Steven Bie, this article argues both for the potential of public access to produce liberatory affective experiences of pride, as well as its role in idealizing a gay imaginary of New York limited by racialized and classed hierarchies. This article demonstrates how public access in the US provided opportunities for marginalized producers to experiment with creating gay television, as well as the structural constraints that limited its political promise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Sexual orientation discrimination increases the risks of negative health outcomes for sexual minorities. Previous studies have found increased rates of eating disorder symptoms in sexual minority individuals, which is attributable to minority stress and discrimination that they experience. Emerging research suggests relationships between sexual orientation discrimination and eating disorder symptoms. However, there is a lack of studies focusing on early adolescents. The objective of this study was to determine prospective associations between discrimination based on sexual orientation and eating disorder symptoms in a national sample of 10–13-year-old early adolescents in the U.S. Methods: We examined prospective data from Year 2 (2018–2020) and Year 3 (2019–2021) of the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) Study (N = 8976). Multiple logistic regression analyses were used to estimate associations between self-reported experiences of sexual orientation discrimination in Year 2 and eating disorder symptoms in Year 3, adjusting for potential confounders, including eating disorder symptoms in Year 2. Sexual orientation discrimination was assessed based on the Perceived Discrimination Scale, which measures adolescents' perception of being treated unfairly based on various sociodemographic characteristics. Eating disorder symptoms were based on the parent-reported Kiddie Schedule for Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia (KSADS-5). Results: In this demographically diverse sample of early adolescents (N = 8976, age range 10–13 years at Year 2), 5.5% of adolescents reported sexual orientation discrimination in Year 2. The prevalence of parent-reported eating disorder symptoms in Year 3 varied from 1.0 to 8.3%. In the adjusted models, sexual orientation discrimination was prospectively associated with worry about weight gain (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 2.33, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.15–4.69) and self-worth tied to weight (aOR 1.60, 95% CI 1.01–2.53) one year later. Conclusions: Early adolescents who have experienced sexual orientation discrimination have higher odds of experiencing eating disorder symptoms, particularly worrying about weight gain and tying self-worth to weight. Clinicians may consider screening for sexual orientation discrimination and providing affirmative, trauma-informed care when evaluating and treating even younger sexual minority adolescents for eating disorder symptoms. Plain language summary: Sexual orientation discrimination increases the likelihood of adverse health effects for sexual minorities. Prior research has identified increased rates of eating disorder symptoms among sexual minority individuals, linked to minority stress and discrimination they endure. Although recent studies suggest associations between sexual orientation discrimination and eating disorder symptoms, there is a gap in research concerning early adolescents. In this large, demographically diverse, national study of 8,976 adolescents aged 10–13 years, we found that early adolescents who have experienced sexual orientation discrimination are more likely to worry about weight gain and tie their self-worth to weight one year later. These findings support the Minority Stress Theory, which describes how discrimination, stigmatization, and internalized negative beliefs may contribute to worse mental health outcomes and maladaptive health behaviors, including eating disorder symptoms. Clinicians can screen for sexual orientation discrimination and provide affirmative, equity-focused care when evaluating even younger sexual minority patients for eating disorder symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a serious public health issue and violation of human rights. During 2021–2022, many countries relaxed COVID-19 restrictions. This provided a unique opportunity to understand the prevalence and correlates of IPV during a period of relaxing COVID-19 restrictions. This cross-sectional study examined IPV during this period from the International Sexual HeAlth and REproductive Health (I-SHARE) study conducted from March to July 2022. Mixed-effects modeling was used to determine correlations of physical, sexual, and psychological violence as compared to before the COVID-19 restrictions. The population comprised individuals in 10 countries (Armenia, Brazil, Egypt, Denmark, Germany, Moldova, Nigeria, Portugal, Singapore and Spain). Our sample included 4,464 participants from these countries. In the previous 3 months, a total of 150 (6.1%) and 114 (4.6%) participants experienced physical violence once or multiple times, respectively. A total of 129 (5.1%) and 174 (6.9%) of participants experienced any form of sexual violence once or multiple times, respectively; and 377 (13.7%) and 574 (20.9%) of participants experienced any form of psychological violence once or multiple times, respectively. In general, identifying as a sexual minority and having children at home were associated with higher odds of experiencing IPV. Age, economic situation, cohabitation status, and a country’s GDP per capita were associated with recent IPV or a worsening of IPV compared to before the COVID-19 restrictions, although results varied depending on the types of violence. Further work is needed to strengthen IPV support for several groups, especially in emergency situations or future pandemics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Background Methods Results Conclusion Human papillomavirus (HPV) transmission routes place all individuals at equal risk; however, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) individuals are disproportionately affected due to barriers in accessing health services and the impact of stigma, making it crucial to understand their health beliefs and knowledge levels.This descriptive study aimed to assess the knowledge levels and health beliefs of LGBTQ individuals regarding HPV and its vaccine. The study, conducted between November 2020 and March 2021, was reported according to the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology guideline. Three hundred and twenty‐three individuals who agreed to participate in the study during this date range were included in the study using the snowball sampling method. Personal information form, HPV Infection Knowledge Scale, and Health Belief Model Scale were used as data collection tools.The mean scores of participants on the HPV Knowledge Scale were 3.42 ± 2.24. Of the participants, 39.6% reported no prior knowledge of the HPV vaccine, and among those who had heard of the vaccine, 88.2% had not received it. The mean scores of participants who had received the vaccine were higher on perceived severity, perceived benefits, and perceived susceptibility sub‐dimensions than those who had not, while the mean scores on perceived barriers were lower (p < 0.05).The study finds that LGBTQ individuals have insufficient knowledge about HPV and are less likely to have received the HPV vaccine. However, low perceived barriers and high perceptions of the benefits, severity, and susceptibility of HPV vaccination can enhance preventive behaviors. Nurses should offer counseling and information to improve LGBTQ individuals' perceptions of the HPV vaccine, thereby increasing preventive actions against HPV infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]