Strains and Self-Harm: A Look at LGBQ, Transgender, and Non-binary College Students

Abstract

Queer criminology is quickly growing but is often not integrated within orthodox theoretical frameworks. Moreover, many studies analyze the experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals as a monolithic experience instead of investigating the nuances between sexuality and gender identity. This study bridges these gaps by using a national sample of college students and applying an intersectional, queer criminological lens to a general strain theory framework to understand how LGBQ and trans and non-binary individuals experience and respond to strain in relation to self-harm. We find distinct variations among these groups. We discuss the implications of these findings and directions for future research.