The purpose of this research is to explore how involvement in supportive groups, such as peer mentorship or chosen families, can enhance life satisfaction, emotional regulation, and identity development among members of the LGBTQ+ community. It has been suggested that belonging to an affirming social network may help improve one's sense of self-worth, reduce stress levels, and increase feelings of acceptance and inclusion (Drescher & Pachankis, 2016; Zinman et al., 2018). As such, researchers have studied the effects of participation in various types of support networks on mental health outcomes for these individuals.
Studies have found that gay men who are involved in social organizations, such as pride parades, have greater self-esteem than those who do not participate (Burke et al., 2019).
Transgender individuals who join online communities have reported improved psychological wellbeing, including decreased depression symptoms and increased life satisfaction (Herman & Sabine, 2017). The current study builds upon previous findings by examining the impact of chosen family networks on emotional regulation and identity development in a sample of LGBTQ+ adults.
The participants in the present study were recruited through flyers posted at LGBTQ+ centers across the United States. All participants completed anonymous surveys assessing their level of engagement with chosen family members, such as friends or partners, and measures of emotional regulation and identity development. Analyses revealed significant associations between greater involvement in peer mentorship and higher scores on both outcomes. These results suggest that being part of a supportive network can help promote positive emotions, such as happiness and contentment, while also enhancing a sense of belonging and purpose. Interestingly, there was no difference in emotional regulation and identity development based on gender identity, sexual orientation, or age group. This suggests that regardless of individual characteristics, all members of the LGBTQ+ community may benefit from joining affirming social groups.
This research adds to our understanding of how participation in support networks can benefit mental health for marginalized populations. It highlights the importance of creating spaces where LGBTQ+ individuals feel valued, accepted, and supported. As more people become aware of the benefits of these types of relationships, it is likely that we will see an increase in the prevalence of these networks within communities. By fostering a sense of belonging and connection, we can work towards creating a more just and equitable society for everyone.
How does participation in community, peer mentorship, or chosen family networks enhance life satisfaction, emotional regulation, and identity development in LGBT individuals?
The current study explores how LGBT individuals' involvement in community, peer mentorship, or chosen family networks influences their life satisfaction, emotional regulation, and identity development. Participation in these communities can lead to improved social support and acceptance, which may result in enhanced self-esteem and confidence among members (Brown & Duguid, 2017).