1 - (SYM 46) Behavioral Pathways to LGBTQ+ Resilience: A Mixed-methods Approach to Understanding Connection to LGBTQ+ Identities

The LGBTQ+ community has a rich history of resilience in the face of persecution. Despite persistent experiences of adversity—including structural and interpersonal discrimination—many LGBTQ+ people thrive. One facilitator of thriving is identity centrality (i.e., the strength of connection between one’s LGBTQ+ identity and their broader sense of self), which is associated with positive psychosocial outcomes (e.g., pride, community engagement). We know little, however, about the specific behaviors that people engage in that elicit a sense of connection to their LGBTQ+ identity. To help individuals build resilience, it is crucial to understand how, when, and where they feel connected to their LGBTQ+ identity. To address this gap, the current study uses a mixed-methods approach to develop a measure of behaviors that promote identity connection.

In this study, LGBTQ+ young adults (aged 18-30) complete an online survey to identify behaviors that promote identity connection qualitatively and quantitatively. First, participants describe a recent experience of identity connection in an open-response format, detailing what they were doing, with whom, emotional responses, and how it facilitated connection. Content analysis will be used to identify themes across behavioral, social, and emotional domains. Second, participants select from a list of 28 behaviors those they have engaged in which elicited identity connection. Behaviors were drawn from literature on LGBTQ+-affirming experiences (e.g., “Attended a pride event,” “Listened to music by an LGBTQ+ artist”). Descriptive statistics will assess endorsement patterns. Third, cognitive interviewing items probe participant feedback on effectiveness of the qualitative and quantitative approaches in capturing personal experiences around identity connection, which will be used to refine the measure. Data collection is ongoing, with analysis planned before the 2025 ABCT convention.

By understanding the behaviors that various LGTBQ+ people engage in to feel connected to their identity, LGBTQ+ persons and their support systems (e.g., clinicians, friends, family) can collaborate to promote this connection. Following refinement and validation, the measure can be used in future research to understand the impact of behaviors that promote identity connection on mental health outcomes. Findings can help assess the availability and enhance the use of resources and community spaces that support LGBTQ+ identity resilience through identity connection at both individual and community levels.