Abstract
Introduction
Sexual minority emerging adults in Appalachia face multiple sources of stigma and discrimination.
Methods
We conducted four focus groups and five one-on-one interviews with sexual minority young adults and community stakeholders.
Results
Themes emerged from qualitative analysis: (1) Appalachian culture engenders discrimination and isolation; (2) a need to identify safe spaces; (3) lack of access to identity-affirming health services; and (4) participants draw strength from limited but persistent resistance, advocacy, and visibility.
Conclusion
Sexual minority emerging adults experience intersectional stigma in a socially conservative Appalachian setting. Attention to their unique experiences points toward specific service and community support needs.
Data availability statement
Due to the nature of this research, participants of this study did not agree for their data to be shared publicly, so supporting data is not available.