Post-traumatic Growth in Sexual Minority Latinas: An Intersectional Exploration of Cumulative and Systemic Stress and Trauma Exposures

Erica S Garcia, Purdue University

Abstract

There is a limited amount of research that explores the potential growth and experiences of sexual minority Latinas (SMLs). Using an intersectionality informed framework, this study explored SMLs post-traumatic growth (PTG) process following systemic traumas/stressors such as heterosexism and racial/ethnic discrimination, and cumulative stressors and traumas. A survey with both qualitative and quantitative questions was administered to 171 participants. It was hypothesized that cumulative trauma, socio-demographic characteristics, outness, and family acceptance would be positively related to higher PTG, while heterosexism and the intersection of both heterosexism and racial/ethnic discrimination would be related to lower PTG. A hierarchical regression was used and found that the post-traumatic growth inventory (PTGI) was a valid measure for Latina/Chicana sexual minorities and that SMLs experienced above moderate levels of PTG. Religion, age, outness, and heterosexism was positively associated with higher selfreported PTG, while family rejection and the intersection of heterosexism and racial/ethnic discrimination lowered PTG. Three qualitative themes emerged providing insights on SMLs selfdefined growth. Clinical implications for marriage and family therapists and areas for future research are discussed.

Degree

M.Sc.

Advisors

Edwards, Purdue University.

Subject Area

Spirituality|Religion|Ethnic studies|Gender studies|Hispanic American studies|Social psychology|Social structure

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