Perceived Adult Social Support During Adolescence and Well-Being Among LGBTQ-Identified Young Adults
Date of Award
Spring 4-29-2020
Document Type
Thesis (699 registration)
Degree Name
Master of Science in School Psychology
Department
Graduate Studies
Committee Chair
Mary Dosch
Keywords
LGBTQ, youth, social support, well-being
Abstract
Many youth, particularly those who are LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer) face challenges during identity development including lack of social support and psychological maladjustment. These challenges are not typically experienced by the general population of youth. The goal of this study was to explore social support among LGBTQ youth and its relations to general well-being among LGBTQ-identified young adults through a mixed method design, including qualitative and quantitative information. This study found specific characteristics of supportive adults that were identified as beneficial for LGBTQ youth. In addition, this study explored specific situations where LGBTQ young adults found social support to be helpful. This study also evaluated how social support for LGBTQ youth was related to subjective well-being among LGBTQ young adults. Results did not indicate significant correlations between these variables. However, qualitative data on social support within the school and community for LGBTQ youth shed light on how adults who work with LGBTQ youth may be better able to provide beneficial support to mitigate stressors for LGBTQ youth.
Recommended Citation
MacDonald, Adrienne, "Perceived Adult Social Support During Adolescence and Well-Being Among LGBTQ-Identified Young Adults" (2020). Dissertations, Theses, and Projects. 375.
https://red.mnstate.edu/thesis/375