[AtLast]

I think that because it was a sexuality specific study and published in a journal for sexuality is why it did not include data and analysis of transgendered people. It was in a journal (Sexuality Research and Social Policy) which probably only accepts articles on sexuality- the grant may have been specific to this, too and contingent upon acceptance into a professional journal. I honestly don't think this is transphobic. My guess is that the research model could certainly be used for transgendered analysis as well and many of the same responses and effects would apply.

I think it is great that researchers are looking at the effects of long term subjection to stigma and the stress it causes. I would like to see this done with transgendered people included, too- many of the same effects would show up, I would think as well as differences could be explored. Stress shortens people lives and we don't have to be beaten up or threatened to have stressful lives! Thanks for posting this.

But, this does give pause to thinking about the issues that have separated us as "queers." Looks like researchers are not making the close connections we have with one another in terms of life experience with stigma and long term stress.

On the other hand, this might be helpful in educating the generql [population about difference between ones sexuality and gender identification. I'm thinking about people that don't see anything other than a lesbian when seeing a transman (throughout the processes of transitioning and before if choosing to transition). And also, transwomen being referred to and identified as gay without recognizing that it isn't all about sexuality- it is about gender. Hummm.. then try to throw all of the sexuality issues that can be in the mix for a transgendered person- a lot to take in outside of queerdom. The transmen that are gay and transwomen that are lesbian, for example.

Originally Posted by Greyson

New Study: Everyday Stigma, Not Just Major Traumas, Stressful for LGB people

LOS ANGELES, CA – October 3, 2011 – Ongoing stigma and social inequality can increase stress and reduce well-being for lesbian, gay and bisexual (LGB) people, even in the absence of major traumatic events such as hate violence, abuse, and discrimination, according to a new study co-authored by Dr. Ilan H. Meyer, Williams Sr. Scholar at the UCLA School of Law’s Williams Institute.

The study, “We’d Be Free”: Narratives of Life Without Homophobia, Racism, or Sexism, was published in Sexuality Research and Social Policy. The study examined the effects of exposure to everyday stigma — consistent, ongoing experiences of inequality. Subjects reported estrangement from families, failure to complete schooling, and isolation in the workplace. “Imagine living life anticipating exclusion from your friends, family and professional circles simply because of who you are and who you love – that resulting stress takes a toll on one’s life and health,” said co-author Dr. Ilan Meyer.

Black and Latino LGB participants, in particular, characterized homophobia, racism and sexism as a source of stress that led to missed life opportunities, including a quality education and higher levels of self-confidence. “For members of minority groups, day-to-day life experiences that may seem minor to others can and do have significant and lasting impact on one’s well-being,” said Dr. Meyer. “The idea that simply walking out your door will expose you to societal rejection and stigma creates a climate of stress that can lead to detrimental, long-term consequences.”

The research also found that, paradoxically, sexual minorities sometimes view stigma as having enhanced their lives and as having a defining impact on their identity. For example, LGB individuals who were forced to leave their hometowns found a more accepting community and new professional and personal opportunities in big cities that might not otherwise have been available to them.

The research has implications for public policy because it shows the many often unknown effects of stigma. “The study’s results show policymakers need to think more broadly than simply reducing extreme forms of abuse through measures like anti-bullying policies. Although reducing abuse and violence should be a primary focus, policy measures that enhance positive aspects of gay identity, like interventions that connect LGB persons to their communities, could help reduce the stress caused by social exclusion,” said Dr. Meyer.

The study, funded by the National Institute of Mental Health, used qualitative analysis with 57 sexual minority men and women to identify aspects of stigma that are difficult to identify.
While researchers can assess the impact of traumatic events, it is more difficult to determine consequences of stress arising from non-traumatic events like missed opportunities, isolation, and moving from home in an attempt to find accepting communities.

This research was supported by the National Institute of Mental Health grant R01-MH066058 to Dr. Ilan H. Meyer.

For the full report, visit http://www.springerlink.com/content/q761v3380wjw1754/

Yes, I did notice it does not include Trans. I did send off an email to ask why. It could have to do with funding, protocol and/or other things that are not intrinsicly, transphobic. I post if I get a response. They have got to know that Trans people also live with similar stress and "missed opportunities."