Rurality, gay-related rejection sensitivity, and mental health outcomes for gay and bisexual men

Abstract

Introduction

Gay and bisexual (GB) men report anxiety about rejection based on sexual identity. The impact rejection has on GB men’s mental health was investigated to understand how rejection impacts positive psychological constructs (hope and self-compassion), as well as anxiety, depression, and internalized homophobia. Rurality was also considered.

Methods

Data from 154 GB men were analyzed via linear regression.

Results

Results showed higher levels of gay-related rejection were associated with decreased self-compassion and hope agency and increased depressive symptoms and anxiety. No associations with rurality were found.

Conclusion

Implications include suggestions for practitioners in helping GB men with self-compassion and hope.

Keywords:

• Self-compassion
• hope
• rejection sensitivity
• rural issues
• mental health
• gay and bisexual men

Disclosure statement

The authors have no conflicts of interest to disclose.

Additional information

Funding

The research results discussed in this publication were made possible in total or in part by funding though the award from project number HR16-022 from the Oklahoma Center for Advancement of Science and Technology.