Minority Stress, Homonegativity, Alcohol Use and Mental Health Among College Gay Males

Abstract

Minority stressors, extent of disclosure, and connection to the gay community were examined in relation to alcohol use and psychological strain in gay male students. This study examined whether membership in a campus-based lesbian, gay, and bisexual society acts as a cultural vulnerability for alcohol use while at the same time providing important coping resources that result in lower levels of psychological distress. Members did not differ from nonmembers in relation to binge drinking, social support, psychological strain, or overall alcohol consumption, but they were less likely to abstain. A variety of measures of minority stress predicted binge drinking behavior.

KEYWORDS:

• sexual identity
• sexual minority
• mental health
• substance abuse