Exploring relationships, identity and mental health within the LGBTQ+ community

Abstract

This thesis combines a systematic review and a qualitative study to explore the relational and mental health experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly within the contexts of coming out, faith, and identity conflict. The systematic review builds upon the evidence base of LGBTQ+ experiences within religious communities, by exploring the impact on mental health and resilience for LGBTQ+ individuals who have a religion or faith. The qualitative study explores the relational experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals using Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT) theory, focusing on identity development (self-self relationships), self-other relationships, and self-society relationships. The systematic review included 18 studies and were analysed using Thematic Synthesis. Twelve descriptive themes were created which were then further grouped into five analytical themes. The themes demonstrate that LGBTQ+ individuals of faith may be vulnerable to mental health difficulties due to identity conflict. However, it also indicates that finding affirming religious communities and deepening faith can serve as a protective factor that promotes wellbeing. The researcher utilised a clinical model of formulation to make sense of the process within the data and a 5P’s framework was presented. The qualitative study analysed data from 11 interviews using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). Six Group Experiential Themes (GETs) were identified: Coming Out: Discovering and Sharing Who I Am; Is it Wrong to be LGBTQ+? Questions and Beliefs about Being 'Normal'; Different Parts of Me; Feeling Safe in Relation to Others; Feeling Unworthy and Unlovable; and Being Authentically Me. Subthemes were also identified within these GETs and visual interpretations of themes were created. A CAT map was developed from the themes, outlining reciprocal roles (RRs), reciprocal role procedures (RRPs), and self-states. This thesis provides an exploration of the experiences of the LGBTQ+ community, focusing on relational experiences, identity conflict and mental health. The findings highlight the nuanced difficulties the LGBTQ+ community may face, particularly emphasising the ii significance of early caregiving relationships, coming out and identity conflicts. The thesis emphasised the significance of religious identity conflicts for LGBTQ+ individuals and how this impacts mental health and relationships. Additionally, the thesis explores ways in which societal norms and religious doctrines impact LGBTQ+ individuals’ mental health, and how societal experiences can impact identity formation. The research also highlights strengths and protective factors within the LGBTQ+ community. The CAT map and 5P’s formulation provide an applicable clinical framework and may help clinicians support LGBTQ+ individuals facing mental health difficulties. Recommendations for future research have been highlighted.