Effects of Social Support From Family and Partners on Internalized Stigma in Young Sexual Minorities

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Austin Simon
Sarah Whitton

Abstract

By Austin Simon, Psychology


Advisor: Sarah Whitton


Award: Excellence in Research Communication


Presentation ID: 311


Abstract: Internalized stigma may lead to many negative outcomes in sexual and gender minorities (SGM) such as lower self-esteem and higher rates of depression. Social support, particularly family support, is associated with decreased rates of internalized stigma. It is possible that partner support may help reduce the negative effects of low family support on SGM well-being, including internalized stigma. This study aims to assess whether family and partner support are negatively associated with internalized stigma in sexual and gender minority (SGM) individuals, and if partner support reduces the effect of low family support. The sample included 347 SGM assigned female at birth currently in a relationship (average age = 20.4; 37.2% black, 26.5% Hispanic/Latinx, 23.6% white, 8.6% multiracial). Participants completed measures of family support, romantic partner support, and internalized stigma. Pearson's correlation analysis revealed that family support and partner support were negatively associated with internalized stigma (r = -0.240, p = <.001; r = -0.130, p = 0.015). Within a multiple regression analysis, relationship support was tested as a buffer for lack of family support against internalized stigma. Contrary to hypothesis 2, partner support did not moderate the negative association between family support and internalized stigma (r = 0.264, p = <.001). As predicted in the hypotheses, both family support and partner support negatively correlated with internalized stigma, but partner support was not able to buffer for lack of family support against internalized stigma.

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Category: Systemic Challenges