Defense Date
2026
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science
Department
Psychology
First Advisor
Rosalie Corona
Abstract
LGBTQ+ young adults are at increased risk of adverse mental health outcomes including internalizing symptoms. The current study seeks to better incorporate strengths when modeling internalizing symptoms outcomes in LGBTQ+ young adults. The present study is secondary analysis of data collected as part of a three-wave longitudinal study. LGBTQ+ young adults (N = 250) completed baseline questionnaires assessing resilience to social stigma, types of perceived social support (i.e., family, friend, significant other), and internalizing symptoms. Moderation models were not practically or statistically significant; however, covariates (i.e., age, socioeconomic standing, and childhood basic needs) stood out in their significant contribution in moderation models. All six mediation models indicated full mediation, where greater social support was associated with greater resilience to social stigma, which was associated with fewer internalizing symptoms. Thus, all mediation models were significant statistically and in effect size. Results highlight the importance of explicating the impact and interplay of minority strengths when modeling mental health outcomes in LGBTQ+ young adults. Future directions are discussed herein.
Rights
© The Author
Is Part Of
VCU University Archives
Is Part Of
VCU Theses and Dissertations
Date of Submission
3-6-2026
Included in
Clinical Psychology Commons, Developmental Psychology Commons, Health Psychology Commons, Multicultural Psychology Commons, Personality and Social Contexts Commons, Social Psychology Commons