Abstract
The LGBTQ+ community regularly faces discrimination at both the interpersonal and structural level, causing stress that manifests itself in adverse physical and mental health outcomes. LGBTQ+ youth and young adults are in a precarious position where they are still dependent on others and have less freedom to limit their interactions with unaccepting individuals. The COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdown forced most college students and young adults’ home to family, facing financial insecurity and the loss of services. The lockdown further limited the mobility of LGBTQ+ and constrained their ability to access protective factors against discrimination, such as social support and therapy. Guided by Meyer’s minority stress model, this research highlights how certain unique stressors already faced by the LGBGTQ+ community have compounded in the context of the pandemic. Using interviews and surveys conducted during the pandemic with LGBTQ+ within and outside the SUNY Geneseo community, issues such as familial acceptance and uncertainty for the future juxtaposed with discussions on self reflection and forms of resilience were highlighted. This research seeks to add to the discourse surrounding the specific needs of minority groups during the current pandemic and future crises that may replicate similar conditions.
Recommended Citation
Stitt-Fredericks, Isabelle
(2022)
"LGBTQ+ Experiences with the COVID-19 Pandemic,"
Proceedings of GREAT Day: Vol. 2021, Article 9.
Available at:
https://knightscholar.geneseo.edu/proceedings-of-great-day/vol2021/iss1/9