Lesbian and gay people's experiences of Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and Intersectionality

Abstract

The aim of the thesis was to be able to understand and explore Lesbian and Gay People’s (LGP) experiences of completing a full Dialectical Behaviour Programme (DBT) and Intersectionality. The thesis is presented in three separate papers. Paper one is a systematic thematic synthesis exploring Lesbian and Gay People of the Global Majority’s (LGP-GM) experiences of minority stressors. The systematic search strategy highlighted 16 relevant papers, discussing experiences of minority stress in South Asian LGP and Black African and Caribbean gay men. Four main themes were identified from the thematic synthesis: 1) Intersectionality: Navigating the queer scene as an LGP-GM (objectification: racist sexualised hierarchies, and the other; 2) Intersectionality: Navigating GM spaces as an LGP-GM (heteronormative surroundings, and religious and cultural beliefs about open lesbian and gay identities); 3) Internal intersectional identity conflict (performing gender, and hiding the lesbian or gay self; and 4) Lack of connection to culture, religion, and others. The review noted the unique minority stressors faced by LGP-GM and discusses the complex similarities and differences between sexualities and racial groups. Recommendations were made in relation to clinical practice and future research in intersectionality for LGP-GM. Paper two explored LGP’s experiences of completing a full DBT programme to completion. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight LGP. Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) produced four primary themes: 1) The DBT Journey (Before the DBT path, Trying to walk the DBT path and The internalised DBT path: creating a life worth living), 2) Connections and Sense of Community during DBT (A chosen family and Influence of DBT Therapists), 3) Sexuality both visible and invisible in DBT and 4) A GSRD affirmative future for DBT. Several clinical implications were suggested such as: consider having other LGP within DBT groups, create a more GSRD affirming DBT (changes to the DBT manual, DBT therapists, DBT programme and physical DBT space), adapt DBT techniques to manage sexuality-related difficulties and adopting a GSRD centric framework. The study listed areas for future research, but overall suggested DBT appears to be beneficial for LGP. Paper three is a critical reflection of the research processes and project as a whole. Paper one and two are presented independently. Strengths and limitations are considered alongside personal reflections.

Date of Award	19 Sept 2024
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	The University of Manchester
Supervisor	James Lea (Main Supervisor) & Daniel Pratt (Co Supervisor)