Abstract:
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Methods: Among a convenience sample of cisgender LGBQ college students (n=268), we examined the association between college- and state-level structural factors and students’ experiences of campus hostility and microaggressions, psychological distress, and self-acceptance. Relationships between these outcomes were first examined with Pearson and Spearman correlation coefficients. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was used to explore the meditating relationship of college-level structural factors on discrimination, distress, and self-acceptance. Bootstrapping was used to estimate the mediating effect from an inclusive non-discrimination policy to (hostility and microaggressions), then to psychological well-being. Results: Both the correlation matrix and SEM results suggested positive benefits from select college policies and resources, particularly non-discrimination policies that included both gender identity and sexual orientation (versus only sexual orientation). Based on the SEM and correlation matrix, a non-discrimination policy that included both sexual orientation and gender identity was significantly associated with lower microaggressions and overt hostility.
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