Understanding the Complex Relationships Between Homophobic Bullying and Depression

Abstract

Although homophobic bullying has been shown to play an important role in poor mental health outcomes, especially depression, little is known about the mediating and moderating role underlying this mechanism. Thus, as a part of this study, we try to understand whether gender-based bullying mediates the relationship between homophobic bullying and depression and whether the self-concept moderates this mediating process. A sample of 431 respondents, 18 years and above were surveyed through online mode to understand homophobic bullying and its implications on the mental health of the people who identify as LGBTQ. The results indicated that homophobic bullying was significantly and positively associated with depression. This relationship was mediated by gender-based bullying. Moderated-mediation analysis further revealed that self-concept moderates the relationship between gender-based bullying and depression. This relationship is stronger for LGBTQ individuals with higher levels of self-concept. Hence, there is a need to develop (a) strong supportive LGBTQ ally groups in educational and professional spaces to ensure safety and support for the bullied; and (b) create inclusive policies in academic and professional settings to ensure lower levels of bullying.