Religion and religiosity: protective or harmful factors for sexual minority youth?

Abstract

Sexual minority youth are disproportionately impacted by a number of psychosocial risks including a greater likelihood of non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) when compared to heterosexual counterparts. Emerging research seeks to identify the risk and resilience factors that contribute to the mental health of this stigmatised population. Considering that most Americans grow up with at least some religious teachings and that most major world religions have historically condemned same sex sexuality, the current study examines the association between religious tradition, religiosity, and NSSI behaviour. Results indicate that religion plays both a protective and harmful role for sexual minority youth. Those identifying as Christians with high religious guidance had the greatest risk, seculars had a comparatively moderate risk, and Christians with low religious guidance had the least risk. Implications for clinical practice and future areas of research are discussed.

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