Exploring Lived Experiences of Violence and Coping Among Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Youth in Kingston, Jamaica

ABSTRACT

Objectives: This study explored experiences of violence and coping among lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) youth in Kingston, Jamaica. Methods: We conducted three focus groups with LGBT youth (18–29 years old), one with gay men (n = 10); one with transgender women (n = 8); and the third with lesbian and bisexual women (n = 5). Thematic analysis was used to understand lived experiences of violence and coping. Results: Findings revealed the complexity of types, sites, and consequences of violence, and adaptive and maladaptive coping strategies. Conclusions: Assets-based interventions to support LGBT youth in Jamaica should build on LGBT peer and community support.

KEYWORDS:

• Homosexuality
• bisexuality
• transgender persons
• Jamaica
• social stigma

Acknowledgments

We would like to thank all the participants, peer research assistants, and collaborators: Jamaica AIDS Support for Life; JFLAG: Jamaica Forum for Lesbians, All-Sexuals and Gays; Caribbean Vulnerable Communities (CVC); Grata Foundation; QCJ: Quality of Citizenship Jamaica; Ashe; Colour Pink Group; Aphrodite's Pride; and the University of the West Indies, Mona Campus. This research was funded by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research Operating Grant 0000303157; Fund: 495419, Competition 201209.