Community-Based Intervention for Sexual and Gender Minority Youth in Central Texas

Abstract

This study evaluated the psychosocial outcomes of sexual and gender minorities (SGM) youth attending a community social support group in Central Texas from October 2019 to October 2020. SGM youth are at an increased risk of experiencing depression and social challenges due to hetero and cis-normative social norms. This study examined the efficacy of a group intervention for addressing the challenges of 128 SGM youth who participated in this study. Data collection included levels of social support and depression. Analysis between three groups, newcomers ( n = 67), <6 months attendance ( n = 30), and >6 months attendance ( n = 29), found significant differences among Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale 10 total scores, peer support, significant other support, and overall support with greater support seen in participants with greater attendance. We provide recommendations for community-based organizations to better serve SGM youth per our findings.