MINORITY STRESSORS AND SUICIDAL IDEATION AMONG GENDER AND SEXUAL MINORITIES IN CROSS RIVER STATE, NIGERIA: THE MEDIATING ROLE OF PERCEIVED
Sr No:
Page No:
6-13
Language:
English
Authors:
Usen Essien Inyang
Received:
2024-10-21
Accepted:
2024-11-04
Published Date:
2024-11-08
Abstract:
Gender and sexual minorities (GSM) face significant discrimination, stigma, and
marginalization, which can lead to negative mental health outcomes, including suicidal ideation.
This study examined the relationship between minority stressors (microaggressions, perceived
stigma, and internalized homophobia) and suicidal ideation among gender and sexual minorities
in Cross River State. Additionally, the moderating role of perceived family support on this
relationship was investigated. A cross-sectional survey design was used to collect data from a
sample of 129 gender and sexual minority individuals. Data were collected using the following
instruments: the LGBTQ+ Microaggressions Scale (LMS), the Gender and Sexual Minority
Stigma Scale (GSMSS), the Internalized Homophobia Scale (IHS), and the Beck Scale for
Suicidal Ideation (BSS). Perceived family support was measured using a modified version of the
Family Support Scale. Data were analyzed using hierarchical multiple regression analysis, with
perceived family support entered as a moderator variable. The results showed that
microaggressions did not significantly predict suicidal ideation (β = -.070; t = -.91; P >.05).
However, perceived stigma (β =.17; t = 2.010, P <.05) and internalized homophobia (β =.17; t =
2.07, P <.05) were significant predictors of suicidal ideation. Furthermore, perceived family
support was found to moderate the relationship between minority stressors and suicidal ideation,
such that individuals with higher levels of perceived family support experienced lower levels of
suicidal ideation in response to minority stressors. The findings indicate that tackling minority
stressors and enhancing perceived family support could be crucial strategies for lowering
suicidal ideation among gender and sexual minorities. The study's outcomes have significant
implications for creating interventions and programs focused on improving the mental health and
well-being of gender and sexual minorities.
Keywords:
Minority stressors, Suicidal ideation, Gender and Sexual Minorities, Perceived family support.