Positive Psychology and LGBTQ Populations

Horne, S. G., Puckett, J. A., Apter, R., & Levitt, H. M. (2014). Positive psychology and LGBTQ populations. In Cross-cultural advancements in positive psychology (pp. 189–202). https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-017-8654-6_13

Abstract:

Extant research suggests that there are benefits and positive aspects of LGBTQ identities and relationships. For example, many sexual minorities report increased confidence, more positive self-regard, and greater empathy for others as a result of publicly and openly identifying as LGBTQ. Despite limited conceptualizations of LGBTQ issues within a positive psychological framework to date, exploring strengths and positive psychology can be useful for understanding many of the facets of LGBTQ identity that may have psychological benefit: freedom from socially restrictive views of gender expression and sexual identity; multiple psychological benefits from same-sex relationships and families including the emphasis on relationship equality and shared labor division, as well as expansive gender roles among children of LGB couples; and strengths gained through forming LGBTQ communities of support and participation in social justice movements.