Citation

Carlos MJ, Ortiz Hernández L. J. Homosex. 2019; 66(4): 510-532.

Affiliation

Health Care Department , Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana Xochimilco.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2019, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/00918369.2017.1422938

PMID

29303429

Abstract

In this study, we explored the role of sex as an effect-modifying variable in the association between sexual orientation and mental health in Mexican youth. In addition, we tested if violent experiences in the family and the school and attitudes towards homosexuality could act as mediating variables in such association. Data from three representative surveys performed in 2007, 2009, and 2013 among Mexican high school students were analyzed. Two dimensions of sexual orientation were evaluated: romantic partnership and sexual behavior. The outcomes were negative and positive mood, suicidal ideation and intent, self-concept and self-esteem. There were differences by gender because in males, there were more disparities in mental health associated with sexual orientation (suicidal ideation and attempt, negative and positive mood, negative self-concept, and family-related self-esteem) than in females (suicidal ideation and negative mood). Experiences of school violence were mediators in the relationship between sexual orientation and most health outcomes in males.

Language: en

Keywords

Sexual orientation; disparities; gender; mental health; mood; self-esteem; teenagers; violence sexual abuse