Internalized homophobia and mental health among youth experiencing homelessness: a correlational study

LGBTQ+ youth experiencing homelessness face elevated risks of poor mental health. This study explored whether internalized homophobia, the internalization of negative societal beliefs about one’s sexual identity, is associated with mental health outcomes in this group. We analyzed baseline data from 133 LGBTQ+ youth aged 16–25, recruited from shelters and drop-in centers in Houston, as part of the Come As You Are clinical trial. Internalized homophobia was measured using the Sexual Identity Distress Scale, and mental health symptoms were assessed using validated scales for distress, depression, perceived stress, and emotional affect. No significant associations were found between internalized homophobia and distress, depression, stress, or negative affect. However, a small but significant inverse correlation emerged between internalized homophobia and positive affect, suggesting that individuals with higher positive emotional experiences may be somewhat protected against the effects of internalized stigma. These findings underscore the value of resilience-building and identity-affirming interventions. Although internalized homophobia was not strongly linked to psychological distress, the overall high prevalence of mental health symptoms in this population calls for culturally responsive services that support emotional well-being and affirm LGBTQ+ identities. Further research is needed to develop strategies that enhance positive affect and reduce the harms of stigma.