Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 27, 2025

Author Spotlight: Understanding Adolescent Social Adversity Effects on Neurodevelopment in Mice
Published on: March 15, 2024
Cognitive and behavioural factors contributing to distress in LGBTQ+students: a prospective mediation study
Georgina Gnan1, Qazi Rahman1, Katharine A Rimes1
1Department of Psychology, King's College London, London, UK.
Abstract:
We applied a cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) model of psychological distress and examined cognitive and behavioural predictors and mediators of depression, anxiety and suicidality among lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer and other sexual or gender minority (LGBTQ+) students. LGBTQ + university students (N = 385) completed questionnaires at baseline, 1 and 2 months. Structural equation modelling (SEM) was used to test the relationship between baseline negative beliefs (about the self, others and the future) and depression, anxiety and suicidality 2 months later, via cognitive and behavioural response mediators (perseverative thinking, avoidance and self-compassion) assessed at 1 month. The final model demonstrated acceptable fit: χ2 (16) = 73.36, p < .001, comparative fit index (CFI)=0.96, Tucker-Lewis index (TLI)=0.93, root-mean-square error of approximation (RMSEA) = 0.09 (90% CI [0.07-0.12]), standardized root-mean-square residual (SRMR) = 0.04, accounting for significant variance in depression/anxiety (48%) and suicidality (27%). For depression/anxiety, negative beliefs had a direct effect and an indirect effect via perseverative thinking and avoidance. For suicidality, negative beliefs had a direct effect. A cognitive behavioural conceptualization may improve our knowledge of the psychological mechanisms involved in depression, anxiety and suicidality in LGBTQ + students. Negative beliefs about the self, others or the future, perseverative thinking, and avoidance are promising targets for prevention and treatment.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Ethnic Identity within a Larger Culture
Self-Discrepancy Theory
Lazarus's Cognitive Appraisal Theory
Primary Appraisal:...
Psychological Responses to Stress
Bullying
Cognitive Dissonance

