Examining the Role of Peer and Family Belongingness in the Mental Health of Black LGBTQ + Youth

Abstract

A sense of belonging to familial and peer networks is crucial for the mental health of LGBTQ+ youth. Black LGBTQ+ youth report feeling rejected and isolated due to their sexual and/or gender identities. Utilizing linear regression analyses, this study explored the relationship between peer and family belongingness and levels of depression, anxiety, and self-rated mental health among 181 Black LGBTQ+ youth in the United States and Canada . Findings suggest that family and peer belongingness are important factors in Black LGBTQ+ youth's mental health and warrant further study into the protective nature of peer and family relationships for this population.