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LGB identity and eudaimonic well being in midlife
Ellen D B Riggle1, Sharon S Rostosky, Fred Danner
1Departments of Political Science and Gender and Women's Studies, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40506-0027, USA. e.riggle@uky.edu
Journal of Homosexuality
|August 7, 2009
Summary
Sexual identity impacts eudaimonic well-being, with lesbian, gay, or bisexual (LGB) individuals reporting lower levels. Discrimination and female sex also correlated with reduced well-being, while minority status showed a positive association.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Public Health
Background:
- Eudaimonic well-being, characterized by personal growth and life purpose, is crucial for a positive life experience.
- Understanding factors influencing eudaimonic well-being is essential for promoting individual and societal health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the relationship between sexual identity and eudaimonic well-being.
- To identify other demographic and psychosocial factors associated with eudaimonic well-being in midlife adults.
Main Methods:
- Utilized data from the National Survey of Midlife Development in the United States (MIDUS).
- Employed statistical modeling to predict eudaimonic well-being based on sexual identity and other variables.
Main Results:
- Reporting a lesbian, gay, or bisexual (LGB) identity was linked to lower eudaimonic well-being scores.
- Perceived daily discrimination, being female, and lower educational attainment were associated with decreased eudaimonic well-being.
- Racial/ethnic minority status demonstrated a positive association with increased eudaimonic well-being.
Conclusions:
- Sexual identity is a significant correlate of eudaimonic well-being.
- Addressing discrimination and educational disparities may enhance well-being for sexual minority individuals.
- Further research is needed to understand and promote well-being among diverse sexual minority populations.
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