Variations in stigma by sexual orientation and substance use: an investigation of double stigma

Ellis R. Agnew*, Kareena McAloney-Kocaman, Kirsty Wiseman-Gregg

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

6 Citations (Scopus)
162 Downloads (Pure)

Abstract

Stigma can have a debilitating effect on mental health. Both LGBTQ+ individuals and substance users experience stigma, and concurrent membership of both groups can result in double stigma. This study aimed to investigate differences in stigmatized attitudes based on substance use behaviors and sexual identity using data from 102 participants (83% female). Findings suggest the presence of a hierarchy of stigma where heterosexual individuals were typically viewed more positively than LGBTQ+ individuals, regardless of the substance using status of the LGBTQ+ individual. However illicit drug use by heterosexual individuals resulted in the most negative attitudes. Implications are discussed.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1-12
Number of pages12
JournalJournal of Gay and Lesbian Social Services
Volume35
Issue number1
Early online date7 Mar 2022
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2 Jan 2023

Keywords

  • LGTB
  • mental health
  • stigma
  • substance use
  • LGBTQ

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Gender Studies
  • Sociology and Political Science

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