Mental Health in Partnered Sexual Minority Youth
Mental Health in Partnered Sexual Minority Youth. Adolescent sexual minority males (ASMM) are three to four times more likely to experience depression or anxiety than their heterosexual peers. ASMM in romantic relationships may be at higher risk of developing anxiety and depression symptoms, yet studies examining relationship quality as a predictor of mental health ASMM is limited.
Methods:
Partnered ASMM (n = 50) were recruited using online advertisements posted on social media and geo-dating mobile application. Linear regressions models were calculated to test associations between relationship quality, minority stress, and mental health (i.e.., depression, anxiety). Models adjusted for age, race, and relationship length.
Results:
Relationship quality and minority stressors predicted worse mental health outcomes. Specifically, relationship quality was positively associated with depression (β = .50, p < .001) and anxiety (β = .26, p = .038). Similarly, Social marginalization was associated with depression (β = .55, p = < .001) and anxiety (β = .67, p <.001), while family rejection was only associated with depression (β = .27 p <.03).
Discussion:
This study demonstrates the relevance of relationship quality and minority stress to the mental health of partnered ASMM. Unlike the pattern seen in adults, relationship quality predicted worse depression. Future research is needed to understand the mechanism in which relationship characteristics influence mental health to inform future prevention and intervention efforts.
Keywords:
LGBT; adolescents; mental health; romantic relationships; sexual minority.
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