Sexual Minorities and Suicide Risk: Findings from the Social Sciences and Future Directions.

The result of a collaboration among statisticians, epidemiologists, and sociologists, this book provides an overview of more than ten years of research and studies—both globally and in France—on suicide risk among young people who are part of sexual minorities and those who are questioning their sexual or gender identity. It teaches us (or reminds us) that self-affirmation—never easy during adolescence—can take on a more “dramatic” dimension for these young people due to the cultural stigma they may face: withdrawal, fear of hostility from those around them, and isolation, which can lead to behavioral disorders and put their social and physical well-being at risk. It refines our understanding of risk factors by highlighting the burden of suspicion of gender non-conformity (which can affect any young person, regardless of their actual sexual orientation). It highlights the distinct nature of each form of discrimination (homophobia, lesbophobia, etc.), while emphasizing their connection to another fundamental form of discrimination: sexism. It confirms and clarifies the findings from the 2008 national “Youth Health” plan by the Ministry of Health and Sports, which developed, in collaboration with INPES, a health prevention and education strategy aimed at fostering dialogue around young people’s exploration of sexuality and homosexuality, in order to break down taboos and promote acceptance of all orientations and identities. Finally, the last section of this book offers additional avenues for action and reflection: expanding local prevention initiatives that appear promising; raising awareness among the various professionals who work with young people (whether in the educational, health, social, or judicial fields...); improving the way surveys account for the specific nature of each form of discrimination to continue expanding our knowledge and refining our strategies and tools.

Author(s): Beck François, Firdion Jean-Marie, Legleye Stéphane, Schiltz Marie-Ange

Publishing year: 2010

Pages: 110p.

Collection: Health in Action

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