Coping with Discrimination: A Longitudinal Study of Health Outcomes in Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual and Heterosexual Midlife and Older Adults

Abstract

Objectives This study explored how coping moderates the association between discrimination and health outcomes in lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) and heterosexual midlife and older adults. Methods This study analyzed longitudinal data from 163 LGB and 326 propensity-matched heterosexual midlife and older adults over approximately 20 years, using the Midlife in the United States study. Results Discrimination was associated with slower chronic condition accumulation over time for LGB individuals. Problem-focused and avoidance coping moderated discrimination’s impact on mental health in LGB participants over time, and in heterosexual participants, they moderated the association between discrimination and chronic conditions. Discussion The results suggest a potential “steeling” effect in LGB midlife and older adults facing higher discrimination levels. Furthermore, the findings suggest that effective coping strategies for mitigating the adverse impacts of discrimination on physical and mental health may vary by sexual orientation.