Date of Award
Spring 2023
Degree Type
Thesis
Department
Psychology
Director of Thesis
Dr. Kate Flory
First Reader
Carleen Maur
Second Reader
Carleen Maur
Abstract
LGBTQ individuals face a much higher prevalence of psychiatric disorders and mental health issues than their heterosexual, cisgender counterparts. The added academic pressures of college introduce a unique set of challenges that LGBTQ students face. This thesis includes a review of academic literature and data examining the intersections between social isolation, institutional discrimination, and financial insecurity and the effects they have on the mental health outcomes of LGBTQ college students. The paper is accompanied by a documentary consisting of a set of interviews of LGBTQ college students, giving a more personal insight into the multitude of factors that affect their mental health. The findings underscore the importance of targeted support services from educational institutions that address the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ students and aim to create a safer and more inclusive campus environment.
First Page
1
Last Page
31
Recommended Citation
Fossum, Alexandria MH, "An Exploration of the Social and Economic Factors that Influence the Mental Health of LGBTQ College Students" (2023). Senior Theses. 585.
https://scholarcommons.sc.edu/senior_theses/585
Rights
© 2023, Alexandria MH Fossum
Included in
Cognitive Psychology Commons, Gender, Race, Sexuality, and Ethnicity in Communication Commons, Human Factors Psychology Commons, Medical Humanities Commons, Mental Disorders Commons, Other Mental and Social Health Commons, Psychiatric and Mental Health Commons, Psychological Phenomena and Processes Commons, School Psychology Commons, Social Justice Commons, Social Psychology Commons