resilience

Risk and protective factors for transgender youths’ substance use

Abstract Research at the intersection of substance use and protective factors among transgender youth is scarce; emerging evidence suggests high risk for substance use for transgender youth. We analyzed data from 323 transgender youth aged 14–18 ( M age = 16.67) to investigate the extent that risk (enacted stigma) and protective factors (support from family, school, friends) […]

Supporting the Health of LGBTQ2S Youth in Canada

The federal government invited briefings regarding the health of LGBTQ2S+ Canadians. As a research centre dedicating to improving health equity among stigmatized and vulnerable youth, we recognized this as a vital opportunity to contribute our expertise and draw attention to the specific needs of LGBTQ2S+ youth in Canada.

A Media-Based School Intervention to Reduce Sexual Orientation Prejudice and Its Relationship to Discrimination, Bullying, and the Mental Health of Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Adolescents in Western Canada: A Population-Based Evaluation

Abstract School interventions to address sexual orientation discrimination can be important tools for fostering inclusive school climate, and improving student wellbeing. In this study, we empirically evaluated a film-based intervention, Out in Schools, designed to reduce sexual orientation prejudice and foster inclusive school attitudes. Our evaluation mapped data about Out in Schools presentations onto student […]

LGBTQ+ Students in Alberta: 12 Evidence-Based Facts

Read and download the full fact-sheet as a PDF here.

LGBTQ+ Students in British Columbia: 12 Evidence-Based Facts

Read and download as a PDF here.

Come Along With Me: Linking LGBTQ Youth To Supportive Resources

Abstract In this study, we examine how lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) youth, who tend to experience greater feelings of isolation and discrimination than heterosexual youth, find and become integrated into supportive activities and resources. As part of a larger study on supportive lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer youth environments, 66 go-along […]

Assessing the impacts and outcomes of youth driven mental health promotion: A mixed-methods assessment of the Social Networking Action for Resilience study

Abstract Mental health challenges are the leading health issue facing youth globally. To better respond to this health challenge, experts advocate for a population health approach inclusive of mental health promotion; yet this area remains underdeveloped. Further, while there is growing emphasis on youth-engaged research and intervention design, evidence of the outcomes and impacts are […]

Being Safe, Being Me in the Atlantic Provinces: Results of the Canadian Trans Youth Health Survey

The Canadian Trans Youth Health Survey was a national online survey conducted by researchers from several Canadian universities and community organizations. This report specifically examines trans youth located in the Atlantic Provinces. The survey included 122 participants from the Atlantic Provinces and used somewhat different questions for younger (14-18 years) and older (19-25 years) trans […]

Enacted Stigma, Mental Health, and Protective Factors Among Transgender Youth in Canada

Abstract Purpose: We aimed to assess the Minority Stress Model which proposes that the stress of experiencing stigma leads to adverse mental health outcomes, but social supports (e.g., school and family connectedness) will reduce this negative effect. Methods: We measured stigma-related experiences, social supports, and mental health (self-injury, suicide, depression, and anxiety) among a sample […]

Disordered eating behaviors among transgender youth: Probability profiles from risk and protective factors

Abstract Purpose Research has documented high rates of disordered eating for lesbian, gay, and bisexual youth, but prevalence and patterns of disordered eating among transgender youth remain unexplored. This is despite unique challenges faced by this group, including gender‐related body image and the use of hormones. We explore the relationship between disordered eating and risk […]