Toward a Scientific Understanding of Queer, Trans, and Two-Spirit (QT2S) Native Youth Mental Health Disparities

Abstract

Queer, trans, and Two-Spirit native youth experience exponential increases in risk for health disparities, yet little is known about their distinct mental health needs. There remains a dearth of literature examining the unique intersection of Indigeneity, gender and sexuality, and age. As Indigenous populations in the United States have grown in the past decade, it is imperative to develop a comprehensive understanding of QT2S native youth mental health. The present work seeks to bridge the fields of scholarship on native youth and LGBTQ communities' mental health disparities to illuminate gaps in scientific understanding of QT2S native youth mental health. The current paper will discuss theoretical frameworks, methodological considerations, and mental health disparities scholarship on QT2S youth, concluding with research recommendations toward developing a scientific understanding of QT2S native youth mental health disparities.