Date of Conferral

8-5-2025

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Social Work

Advisor

Thomas McLaughlin

Abstract

This quantitative study explored the experiences of LGBTQ veterans residing in Ohio, examining the relationship between the coming out process, social acceptance, and minority stress. Lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, and queer (LGBTQ) military veterans face higher rates of minority stressors, resulting in higher rates of suicidal ideation and mental health issues, which impact healthcare practices that affirm their identity. Discrimination, microaggressions, coming out, identity disclosure, and social belonging were identified as key contributing factors. Guided by Meyer’s minority stress theory, the study aimed to assess whether levels of outness, and identification with the LGBTQ community correlated with experiences of minority stress.. Participants anonymously completed four validated survey instruments: the Outness Inventory (OI), Identification and Involvement with the Gay Community Scale (IIGCS), Measure of Gay-Related Stressors (MOGS), and Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale. Data analysis employed multiple linear regression to examine predictive relationships between identity-based, structural, and psychological variables and reported minority stress. Additionally, the study assesses the extent to which military rank and psychological distress predicts minority stress. Findings highlight the need for improved mental health support, inclusive policy development, and culturally responsive car for LGBTQ veterans.

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