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Maatouk, I 
ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1008-7413,
2024.
Mental and sexual health outcomes of gay and bisexual men in Lebanon.
PhD, Nottingham Trent University.
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Abstract
This project explores two aspects concerning gay and bisexual men (GBM) in Lebanon: (1) the influence of religiosity, family, and societal perceptions on their sexual identity formation, and (2) the resulting mental and sexual health outcomes as they navigate identity-related challenges. Guided by the identity process theory, which views identity as a dynamic process shaped by various social and cultural factors, this project includes a comprehensive review of existing research and theoretical insights, along with findings from three empirical studies.
The first study (cross-sectional) examines psychosocial stressors affecting internalized sexual orientation stigma and mental health outcomes in GBM. Results highlight differences between GBM, with bisexuals experiencing increased stigma and more familial pressure to conform to heterosexual norms. Non-religious individuals were more likely to disclose their sexual orientation but faced increased mental health challenges. Bisexuality and religiosity positively correlated with internalized stigma, while openness about one's sexuality correlated negatively. Frequent religious attendance was associated with lower levels of depression and psychological distress.
The second study (semi-structured qualitative) aimed to understand mental, sexual, and identity-related challenges in GBM. Bisexual men often adhered to societal norms, displaying less sexual adventurousness while navigating stigmatized relationships with men. Identity principles, supportive environments, religion, and time influenced self-acceptance.
The third study (experimental) examined the influence of family experiences on identity threat and psychological distress in GBM. Recalling a family coming-out experience was linked to increased psychological distress and internalized stigma. Family outness indirectly predicted psychological distress through the mediation of identity threat. Religion had no significant impact on family outness, psychological distress, or identity threat.
Guided by the identity process theory, this project illuminates distinct facets of the experiences of GBM in Lebanon. The complex interplay between internalized stigma, psychological distress, and family dynamics contributes to a nuanced understanding of coping strategies among these groups.
| Item Type: | Thesis |
|---|---|
| Creators: | Maatouk, I. |
| Contributors: | Name Role NTU ID ORCID |
| Date: | May 2024 |
| Rights: | This work is the intellectual property of the author. You may copy up to 5% of this work for private study, or personal, non-commercial research. Any re-use of the information contained within this document should be fully referenced, quoting the author, title, university, degree level and pagination. Queries or requests for any other use, or if a more substantial copy is required, should be directed to the author. |
| Divisions: | Schools > School of Social Sciences |
| Record created by: | Jeremy Silvester |
| Date Added: | 21 Jun 2024 10:35 |
| Last Modified: | 21 Jun 2024 10:35 |
| URI: | https://irep.ntu.ac.uk/id/eprint/51607 |
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