Interpersonal and environmental microaggressions & depression: Thai LGBQ+ perspectives

Abstract

Microaggressions, which are subtle verbal and non-verbal insults or denigrations, have been identified as prevalent experiences among LGBQ+ populations, often resulting in adverse mental health outcomes. In the Thai context, little research has explored the impact of both types of microaggressions on depression among LGBQ+ individuals. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between interpersonal (INMG) and environmental microaggressions (ENMG) and depressive symptoms among Thai LGBQ+ individuals. A sample of 307 Thai LGBQ+ participants was surveyed using the Thai Sexual Orientation Microaggressions Scale and the PHQ-9 for depressive symptoms. Hierarchical regression analyses were employed to determine the unique effects of interpersonal and environmental microaggressions on depression, controlling for sociodemographic variables and internalized heterosexism (IHP). Both INMG (β = .172, p = 0.008) and ENMG (β = .173, p = 0.007) were significant predictors of depressive symptoms, accounting for approximately 24.2% of the variance. When introduced into the model, they accounted for a significant ΔR2 of 0.079 (p < 0.001). After controlling for sociodemographics and IHP, these microaggressions contributed significantly to the explanation of depressive symptoms, emphasizing their key role in influencing the mental health of LGBQ+ individuals in Thailand. Interpersonal and environmental microaggressions impose unique mental health challenges on Thai LGBQ+ individuals. These findings accentuate the pressing need for interventions tailored to the cultural and regional contexts within Thailand. Furthermore, the research underscores the importance of acquiring a holistic understanding of the LGBQ+ experience, advocating for a more systematic exploration across Thailand's varied geographical landscapes to offer comprehensive solutions.