Abstract
AbstractThis study examined the indirect effect of relationship and parental status on mental health through internalized homonegativity among lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) individuals. Prior research suggested that being in a relationship and becoming a parent may improve the mental health of LGB individuals, acting as protective factors against stigma and discrimination. However, the role of internalized homonegativity in mental health disparities between LGB individuals in relationships/parents and those who are not remains unclear. Therefore, we surveyed 491 LGB cisgender Israelis aged 18–64 years (M = 33.51, SD = 9.09) assessing relationship status, parental status, internalized homonegativity, depressive symptomatology, and life satisfaction. Indirect effects were explored using the PROCESS macro. Results showed that LGB individuals in romantic relationships reported lower depressive symptomatology and higher life satisfaction compared to those not in relationships. Similarly, LGB individuals who were parents reported lower depressive symptomatology and higher life satisfaction compared to non-parents. Significant indirect effect was found for couplehood/parenthood on depressive symptomatology/life satisfaction through internalized homonegativity. This study deepens the understanding of the interplay between couplehood, parenthood, and internalized homonegativity and their contribution to mental health of LGB individuals. It provides valuable insights for researchers and practitioners, highlighting the potential role of couplehood and parenthood in the mental health of sexual minority groups facing legal restrictions on marriage and parenting.
Publisher
Springer Science and Business Media LLC