Nature and Effects of Climate in 2SLGBTQ+ Leisure Spaces: A Mixed Methods Study

The climate within 2SLGBTQ+ leisure spaces plays a key role in shaping the experiences of diverse individuals who frequent them. Yet, the nature and effects of such spaces remain under-researched. In a mixed methods study, 548 diverse individuals completed a survey, and 22 respondents participated in a follow-up interview. Latent profile analysis of the quantitative data revealed three distinct typologies characterizing the climate of 2SLGBTQ+ leisure spaces: contentious, ambivalent, and welcoming. Notably, the contentious climate was linked to low sense of belonging and satisfaction, whereas the welcoming climate was associated with higher scores across the same outcomes. Additionally, specific social identities were predictive of membership in these climate profiles; individuals identifying as transgender/gender nonconforming and disabled were more likely to encounter contentious and/or ambivalent environments compared to welcoming climates, primarily due to limited options for welcoming climates. Intersectional analysis of the qualitative data illustrated that experiences of discrimination, particularly cisgenderism, racism, and ableism, contributed to poor social outcomes. These findings highlight that 2SLGBTQ+ leisure spaces may not translate into inclusive environments for everyone. The typologies developed could serve as a valuable tool to reflect on the ambiance of 2SLGBTQ+ leisure spaces and work toward welcoming climates.