Impact of Structural Stigma on Tobacco Use in Sexual and Gender Minority Young Adults
Author Information
Author(s): Figueroa Wilson, Sridhar Srini, Jankowski Emma, Ennis Alysha, Trinh Anne, Seiber Eric, Patterson Joanne
Primary Institution: The Ohio State University
Hypothesis
This study aimed to assess the indirect effects of structural stigma on current tobacco use among sexual and gender minority young adults via depletion of economic resources, interpersonal discrimination, and perceived psychological stress.
Conclusion
Structural stigma is indirectly associated with higher tobacco use among sexual and gender minority young adults through economic resource depletion.
Supporting Evidence
- Structural stigma was indirectly associated with current tobacco use via depletion of economic resources for sexual and gender minority young adults.
- Interpersonal discrimination was directly and indirectly associated with current tobacco use for both sexual and gender minority and non-sexual and gender minority young adults.
- Participants reported higher financial strain and food insecurity, which were linked to increased tobacco use.
Takeaway
Young adults who identify as sexual and gender minorities may smoke more because of societal pressures and lack of resources, which makes it harder for them to quit.
Methodology
Structural Equation Modeling was used to analyze data from a cross-sectional study with participants aged 18-35 in the U.S.
Potential Biases
Potential biases may arise from self-reported data and the cross-sectional nature of the study.
Limitations
The study used cross-sectional data and lacked sufficient sample size to examine specific subgroups within sexual and gender minorities.
Participant Demographics
Participants included 1,288 sexual and gender minority young adults and 1,368 heterosexual young adults, with a majority being White.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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