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02-04-2025

Out of Sight but on My Mind: Distal Stressors, Identity Concealment, Proximal Stress, and Mental Health Among Sexual or Gender Minorities

Authors: Mark T. Dennis, Christopher G. Davis

Published in: Sexuality Research and Social Policy

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Abstract

This article investigates the psychological impact of societal stigma on sexual or gender minorities (SGMs), focusing on how identity concealment and proximal stress contribute to mental health issues. The study builds upon Meyer’s Minority Stress Model, which posits that systemic stigma leads to higher rates of psychological disorders among SGMs. The authors propose a novel contribution by highlighting the role of identity concealment as a coping strategy that mediates the relationship between distal stressors and proximal stress manifestations. Distal stressors, such as discrimination and violence, are external and objective, while proximal stress includes internalized stigma, rejection anticipation, and perceived lack of family support. The research finds that SGMs report higher levels of anxiety, depression, and minority stressors compared to non-SGMs. The study also reveals that identity concealment is a significant factor in the link between SGM identity and psychopathology, influencing rejection anticipation, internalized stigma, and perceived lack of family support. The findings suggest that societal attitudes towards SGMs play a crucial role in their mental health, and reducing stigma could lead to lower rates of anxiety and depression. The article also discusses the implications of recent legislative and cultural shifts on the mental health of SGMs, emphasizing the need for continued advocacy and support. The study concludes by highlighting the importance of identity concealment as a target for future research, education, and intervention efforts, and calls for further exploration of its impact on SGM wellbeing.

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Title: Out of Sight but on My Mind: Distal Stressors, Identity Concealment, Proximal Stress, and Mental Health Among Sexual or Gender Minorities
Authors: Mark T. Dennis
Christopher G. Davis
Publication date: 02-04-2025
Publisher: Springer US
Published in: Sexuality Research and Social Policy
Print ISSN: 1868-9884
Electronic ISSN: 1553-6610
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s13178-025-01131-6

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Out of Sight but on My Mind: Distal Stressors, Identity Concealment, Proximal Stress, and Mental Health Among Sexual or Gender Minorities

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