Category: LGBQT+
Adam Mann, M.S.
University of Toledo
Toledo, Ohio
John Pachankis, Ph.D.
Susan Dwight Bliss Professor of Public Health (Social and Behavioral Sciences)
Yale School of Public Health
New Haven, Connecticut
Adam Mann, M.S.
University of Toledo
Toledo, Ohio
Julie Prud'homme, B.A., M.S.
University of Victoria
Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
Cindy Chang, Psy.M.
Graduate Student
Rutgers University
Piscataway, New Jersey
Benjamin Shepherd, M.Ed.
Nova Southeastern University
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Riley McDanal, BA
PhD Student
Stony Brook University
Ridgewood, New York
Sexual and gender minoritized (SGM) individuals report greater rates of self-injurious thoughts and behaviors (SITBs) compared to their heterosexual and cisgender peers. Recent research has explained this disproportionate risk through the framework of prominent theories (e.g., minority stress theory). However, with the expansion of SGM studies beyond binary distinctions, the effective application of this research may depend on how individuals self-relate to these well researched SGM identities. To further support efforts aimed at decreasing mental health disparities within the SGM community, this symposium aims to examine how identity nuances among SGM individuals influence the presence and treatment of SITBs. Specifically, in the context of research on SITBs, this symposium seeks to: 1) understand measurement conceptualizations of sexual orientation, particularly among those who may fall on the border or outside of established groups; 2) consider the intersectionality of other identities; 3) examine the impact of identity disclosure; and, 4) determine how identity distinctions relate to treatment outcomes.
In order to produce more inclusive research and provide more equitable care, we must examine individuals who fall on the border of or between established groups. To this end, Presenter 1 will present the results of a study examining SITBs and their underlying mechanisms among individuals who report sexual minoritized status on one measure (e.g., sexual attraction) and sexual majority status on another (e.g., sexual identity). Adding to our understanding of the complexity of sexual minoritized identity endorsement, Presenter 2 will discuss data surrounding SITBs among university students with stable versus unstable sexual minoritized identities. Additionally, it is paramount to understand how holding multiple minority identities may affect one’s overall ability to cope with minority stress and, thus, engagement in SITBs. To this end, Presenter 3 will present data examining the intersectionality of SGM identities with other minoritized identities and their corresponding associations to SITBs. Critically, however, not all SGM individuals disclose their stigmatized identities, which may have important clinical implications. Thus, Presenter 4 will report on a study examining the relation between identity disclosure and engagement in SITBs. Finally, given that identity nuances also may influence treatment outcomes, Presenter 5 will use data collected across two single session interventions to highlight the importance of disaggregating across SGM identities when examining SITB treatment outcomes.
By critically investigating the associations between SITBs and aspects of SGM identity, this symposium aims to facilitate more nuanced consideration, identification, and treatment of SITBs among SGM individuals. As a discussant, Discussant 1 will use his experience in the study and treatment of minority stress to critically examine these data and their potential implications for treatment and future research.
Presenter: Adam J. Mann, M.S. – University of Toledo
Co-author: Matthew Tull, PhD – University of Toledo
Co-author: Kim L. Gratz, Ph.D. – University of Toledo
Presenter: Julie Prud'homme, B.A., M.S. – University of Victoria
Co-author: Brianna J. Turner, Ph.D. – University of Victoria
Presenter: Cindy J. Chang, PsyM – Rutgers University
Co-author: Kate Dorrell, B.S. – Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science
Co-author: Brian Feinstein, Ph.D. – Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science
Co-author: Blaire Ehret, PhD – University of California San Diego
Co-author: Edward Selby, Ph.D. – Rutgers University
Presenter: Benjamin F. Shepherd, M.Ed. – Nova Southeastern University
Co-author: Cindy J. Chang, PsyM – Rutgers University
Co-author: Christina Dyar, Ph.D. – The Ohio State University
Co-author: Paula M. Brochu, Ph.D. – Nova Southeastern University
Co-author: Edward Selby, Ph.D. – Rutgers University
Co-author: Brian Feinstein, Ph.D. – Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science
Presenter: Riley McDanal, BA – Stony Brook University
Co-Author: Alex Rubin, B.S. – University of Denver
Co-author: Jenny Shen, M.A. – Stony Brook University
Co-author: Jessica L. Schleider, Ph.D. – Stony Brook University
Co-author: Kathryn R. Fox, Ph.D. – University of Denver