ORCID

0009-0000-0364-9903

Keywords

lgbtq, qualitative, central florida, minority stress model

Abstract

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) people are subject to unique, chronic, and socially based stressors known as minority stressors. Community can be an important resource for LGBTQ people which can help mitigate the harmful effects of minority stressors. This study sought to understand how minority stressors, such as institutionalized forms of prejudice, discrimination, and violence, affect LGBTQ people in Central Florida and how community connectedness can be used as a resource to mitigate those effects. This study used Central Florida as a research site because of its large LGBTQ population within a state where anti-LGBTQ laws are consistently being proposed and passed into effect. Using qualitative, in-depth, semi-structured interviews, this study explored several research questions. How do LGBTQ people in Central Florida report the effects of Florida’s anti-LGBTQ legislation on their lives and their communities? How do LGBTQ people in Central Florida build and engage in community amid the anti-LGBTQ political climate in Florida? To what extent does community engagement play a role in the self-reported resilience and social and mental well-being of LGBTQ people in Central Florida? Based on a qualitative thematic analysis of 23 in-depth, semi-structured interviews, this study had four main findings. First, participants reported that the anti-LGBTQ legislation in Florida has direct and harmful effects on their lives. Second, resilience is drawn from many places. Third, communities are important to LGBTQ people’s well-being. Finally, despite the circumstances, participants in this study have many joys and many are thriving.

Completion Date

2025

Semester

Spring

Committee Chair

Armato, Michael

Degree

Master of Arts (M.A.)

College

College of Sciences

Department

Sociology

Identifier

DP0029255

Document Type

Dissertation/Thesis

Campus Location

Orlando (Main) Campus

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