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Loneliness and Bullying by Siblings in Gender-Diverse Adolescents: Results From the Population-Based Generation R
Yllza Xerxa1,2, Akhgar Ghassabian3, Manon H J Hillegers1
1Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
JAACAP Open
|July 31, 2026
Summary
Gender-diverse adolescents experience more loneliness, even after accounting for depression and anxiety. Sibling bullying significantly worsens these feelings, highlighting a critical area for support.
Area of Science:
- Adolescent mental health
- Psychology
- Sociology
Background:
- Gender-diverse individuals often experience significant mental health challenges.
- Adolescence is a critical period for social development and mental well-being.
- Family dynamics and peer interactions significantly impact adolescent mental health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between gender-diverse experiences and loneliness in adolescents.
- To determine if this association persists independently of depression and anxiety.
- To examine the moderating role of family environmental factors, including sibling bullying and parenting, on this association.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study utilizing data from the Generation R multiethnic population-based cohort.
- Inclusion of adolescents aged 13-15 years with reported gender diversity and loneliness.
- Statistical analysis to assess associations and moderation effects, controlling for mental health comorbidities.
Main Results:
- Gender-diverse adolescents reported significantly higher levels of loneliness compared to their peers.
- This association remained significant after adjusting for depression and anxiety.
- Sibling victimization (being bullied by a sibling) moderated the link between gender diversity and loneliness, intensifying loneliness for affected individuals.
Conclusions:
- Gender diversity is uniquely associated with increased loneliness in adolescents.
- Sibling bullying acts as a significant moderator, exacerbating loneliness among gender-diverse youth.
- Interventions addressing sibling dynamics and bullying are crucial for supporting the mental health of gender-diverse adolescents.
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