Resilience Among Sexual Minority Youth

Abstract

A growing body of evidence shows that sexual minority youth disproportionately suffer from poor mental health and substance abuse outcomes in comparison to their heterosexual peers. Parental support has been found to be a strong protective factor for these youth. There is a lack of research, however, that examines the role of non-parental adult support, such as natural mentors (e.g., teachers, grandparents, and coaches). Guided by minority stress and resiliency theories, the current study aims to deepen our understanding of whether natural mentors act as a resilience resource for sexual minority youth. The current study uses the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health (Add Health) restricted-use dataset. This is a large, nationally representative sample of both heterosexual (n=12,667) and sexual minority youth (n=1,413), ages 18 to 26. Variable-centered (i.e., multiple regression analysis with moderation) and person-centered (latent class analysis) statistical techniques were utilized to explore the effect of the presence and characteristics of natural mentoring relationships on a range of mental health and substance abuse outcomes. Results show that natural mentors have a similar relationship with health outcomes, regardless of sexual orientation. Perceived closeness is a critical characteristic of the mentoring relationship, exhibiting significant associations with depression, suicide ideation, self-esteem, life satisfaction, and binge drinking. Furthermore, those who have lifelong, close relationships with non-parental adult family members receive the most benefit. It is noteworthy that sexual minority youth are significantly less likely to have a permanent family mentor. Rather, they are more likely to have mentors from high school with whom they lack closeness as they transition into adulthood. Several suggestions for individual and school-based interventions to assist sexual minority youth in developing and maintaining long-term relationships with non-parental adult family members are discussed. The current study emphasizes the importance of supporting and advocating for greater policy change that will directly address minority stressors that sexual minority youth face. Findings from the current study make a significant contribution to the social work field by extending our knowledge regarding resiliency among sexual minority youth and offering concrete avenues for intervention.