Hold my hand: Associations between minority stress, commitment, and PDA for same-gender couples

Abstract

For those who are in a same-gender relationship, there is likely a negative association between experiences of minority stress and willingness to engage in public displays of affection (PDA). One’s willingness to engage in PDA when experiencing sexual minority stress may, however, depend on perceived relationship commitment with one’s partner; wherein people who are more committed may be more willing to engage in PDA. Data from 95 same-gender couples were used to examine the association between minority stress and PDA behaviors, and possible moderating effects of relationship commitment. Results showed minority stress was negatively associated with PDA behaviors for those who reported low commitment, but not high commitment. Implications and future directions are presented.