Options
The relationship of social media use, community connectedness, self-stigma, and mental health among lesbian, gay and bisexual individuals in Hong Kong
Author(s)
Date Issued
2016
Publisher
Hong Kong: Hong Kong Shue Yan University
Description
Hong Kong Shue Yan University. Dept. of Counselling and Psychology.
Thesis (M.Soc.Sc.) -- Hong Kong Shue Yan University, 2016.
Includes bibliographical references (p. 38-44).
x, 72 p.
Type
Thesis
Programme
Master of Social Sciences in Counselling Psychology
Abstract
Technology advancement has allowed people to turn to internet for communication and social connections and has integrated into our everyday lives. Research has shown that the sexual minority population has turned to the internet to build connections with other sexual minority individuals. In a collective culture where family practise shaming and a society with no visible sexual minority community and neighbourhood, sexual minority tailored social media has become a significant source of information, identity development and emotional connections with other members of the population. The present study aimed to explore the protective role of LGB tailored social media use, LGB self-stigma, LGB community connectedness and mental well-being among lesbian, gay and bisexual individuals in Hong Kong. 107 Chinese self-identified lesbian, gay and bisexual individuals were recruited through an online questionnaire. 73 participants (68.2%) were homosexuals, and 34 participants (31.8%) were bisexuals. People who were self-identified heterosexuals were excluded. A mediation analysis showed a statistically significant indirect effect of LGB tailored social media use intensity on mental well-being through LGB community connectedness (β = .141, p = .001). The direct effect between LGB social media use intensity and metal well-being, controlling for LGB community connectedness, was statistically significant (β = -.212, p = .040). Social media is an important source for LGB individuals, enabling them to develop sense of group membership. Specifically, LGB community
connectedness is an important factor in the process of forming a supportive and healthy LGB community. Stronger social ties alleviate self-stigma, promote social support and mental well-being.
Availability at HKSYU Library
