Sexual Orientation Microaggressions: Processes and Coping Mechanisms for Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Individuals

Abstract

Previous literature on microaggressions has suggested that oppressed groups including lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) persons are affected by overt discrimination. However, there has been little research to explore how LGB individuals cope with microaggressions (subtle forms of discrimination), or how microaggressions affect their mental health. This article uses a qualitative focus group method and directed content analysis to categorize the types of processes that exist. With a sample of 26 LGB participants, results were categorized into five domains: (a) behavioral reactions, (b) cognitive reactions, (c) emotional reactions, (d) mental health, and (e) systems and groups who enact microaggressions. Themes were classified under each domain, with examples including passive coping, resiliency and empowerment, and anger/frustration toward sexual orientation microaggressions. Recommendations for culturally competent counseling with LGB populations in school and clinical mental health settings are discussed.

KEYWORDS:

• microaggressions
• sexual orientation
• LGBT
• discrimination
• mental health
• coping
• multicultural counseling

Acknowledgments

This study was funded by The Professional Staff Congress – City University of New York (PSC – CUNY) Research Award Program.