Sexual and Gender Minority Adolescents and Adult Social Support: Affirmation From Adults to Adolescents

Abstract

Sexual and gender minority adolescents are at increased risk of mental health disorders; yet. little is known about how they cope with minority stressors using social support from adults. The present study examined adolescent reports of adult social support. Using a semistructured life history calendar approach, ethnically diverse sexual and gender minority adolescents (N = 52, aged 14–20 years old, M age = 16.56, SD = 1.66) and conducted a thematic analysis of their responses. A thematic analysis was conducted. The interviews were transcribed and double-coded using a model of social support as a sensitizing framework. Qualitative analyses revealed three themes centered on (a) support from the presence of nonparental adults in schools, (b) validation from adults’ use of proper gender pronouns, and (c) encountering adults who demonstrate a lack of knowledge about sexual and gender minority issues. The present study demonstrates that coping with minority stress can take more subtle forms, both outside the home (or parental context) and in family relationships. These implications are useful for adults working with sexual or gender minority adolescents in social service and educational settings.