Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Department

Psychology

Program Name/Specialization

Community Psychology

Faculty/School

Faculty of Science

First Advisor

Robb Travers

Advisor Role

Support and assistance

Abstract

Microaggressions are subtle, often-unintentional forms of discrimination that convey negative messages about targeted individuals. While empirical attention to sexual orientation microaggressions is growing, little is known about their prevalence among specific groups of sexual minorities. Using data (n = 438) from the US-based National Study of LGBTQ Student Success, this study examines: (1) the prevalence of both general sexual orientation microaggressions and erasure of sexuality and hypersexualization microaggressions among bisexual college students and their gay/lesbian peers; (2) the relationship between each type of microaggression and sexual orientation on student outcomes (depression, substance use, and social acceptance); (3) the role of gender in prevalence rates of microaggressions and the microaggression-sexuality-outcome relationship. Results indicate that gay/lesbian and bisexual students experience both forms of microaggressions at similar rates, and general microaggressions, and erasure and hypersexualization microaggressions increased gay/lesbian students’ risk for substance use and lower perceptions of social acceptance.

Convocation Year

2016

Convocation Season

Fall

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