Affirmative Interventions for LGBTQ+ Young People

Abstract

The aim of this thesis was to explore affirmative interventions for young people who are part of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning or sexually/gender diverse (LGBTQ+) community. Mental health is demonstrably poorer in LGBTQ+ young people compared to cisgender, heterosexual peers, therefore identifying approaches designed for the needs of this population is important. The thesis comprises three papers: a systematic review, an empirical paper, and a critical reflection. The systematic review (paper one) is a meta-analysis and narrative synthesis of affirmative interventions for LGBTQ+ young people. Eighteen papers, studying 10 interventions, were identified for inclusion. The meta-analysis did not detect significant effects of affirmative interventions on most mental health outcomes. Within-group studies were unable to be entered into meta-analyses due to insufficient data, but demonstrated examples of significant change in depression, anxiety, coping and self-esteem. This review highlights the need for further, highly controlled research to explore the preliminary promise held in some of these early-stage studies of affirmative interventions for LGBTQ+ youth. The empirical paper (paper two) examined the feasibility and acceptability of an 8-week, CBT-based, self-esteem intervention that was developed for young bisexual people with experience of Non-Suicidal Self-Injury (NSSI) thoughts, urges and behaviour. A case series with eight participants was conducted, and participants completed measures of self-esteem, NSSI, belongingness and identity at baseline, mid-point and follow-up. Results indicate that the intervention was feasible and acceptable for young bisexual people, indicated by therapy attendance, questionnaire completion and participant feedback. To conclude, limitation, revisions and considerations for future trials of this affirmative therapy are proposed. The critical reflection (paper three) offers a reflective account of the research process. This includes further discussions of decision-making processes, methodological considerations, the strengths and limitations of this work, challenges faced throughout the journey and its contribution to this field of research. This paper is concluded with personal reflections on the process.

Date of Award	19 Sept 2024
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	The University of Manchester
Supervisor	Brendan Dunlop (Main Supervisor) & Peter Taylor (Co Supervisor)