Back to Annual Meeting Page		American Public Health Association 133rd Annual Meeting & Exposition December 10-14, 2005 Philadelphia, PA

Abstract #108405

Matthew R. Wolden, BS¹, Ben Felix², and Kristen Clements-Nolle, PhD, MPH¹. (1) School of Public Health, University of Nevada, Reno, Mail Stop 274, Reno, NV 89557, 775.784.4041 ext. 262, MRWolden@aol.com, (2) A Rainbow Place, 33 St. Lawrence Avenue, Reno, NV 89509

Background: Research in large urban centers has shown that homophobic discrimination and victimization may lead to increased risk behaviors and poor mental health outcomes among LGBTQ individuals. However, little is known about the prevalence of discrimination, victimization, or mental health status of LGBTQ populations in small communities.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 63 LGBTQ individuals in Northern Nevada. Participants completed an anonymous questionnaire designed to assess: socio-demographics; exposure to discrimination and victimization; perceived comfort level “being out” in the community; and psychosocial needs.

Results: Sixty-four percent of participants were male, 59% were Caucasian, the median age was 24 (Range = 16-59), 25% had a history of homelessness and 6% were currently homeless. Thirty-seven percent experienced anti-gay harassment and 28% reported a threat of physical violence in Nevada public schools. In the community, 60% experienced homophobic threats, and 29% experienced homophobic violence, of which 10% lead to the need for hospitalization or health care. Fifty-one percent of participants felt they needed to deny or hide their sexual orientation at work, and 47% reported fear of being fired, denied promotion, compensation, or benefits as a result of sexual orientation. Nearly one-third (30%) reported a past suicide attempt, and 62% had suicidal ideations.

Conclusions: Prevalence of homophobic discrimination and victimization, as well as suicidal behaviors is high among LGBTQ populations in Northern Nevada. Policies and interventions addressing hate crimes, discrimination, and victimization are urgently needed.

Learning Objectives:

• ·Describe the level of homophobic discrimination and victimization experienced by LGBTQ persons in Northern Nevada.
• ·Identify potential interventions and policies necessary to address homophobic discrimination and victimization in small communities.

Keywords: Gay, Violence

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

I wish to disclose that I have NO financial interests or other relationship with the manufactures of commercial products, suppliers of commercial services or commercial supporters.