Well-Being as a Function of LGBTQIA+ Campus Climate and Identity: A Case Study at a Non-Affirming Religiously Affiliated University.

Abstract

Environmental contexts likely influence the extent to which LGBTQIA+ individuals, compared to their cisgender, heterosexual counterparts, experience poorer physical, mental, and behavioral health outcomes. This case study was conducted within a non-affirming, religiously affiliated university. A Qualtrics-hosted survey was completed by 596 students, of whom 63% identified as White, 37% as BIPOC, and 36% as LGBTQIA+. We examined perceptions of LGBTQIA+ college non-responsiveness and LGBTQIA+ stigma as mediators between LGBTQIA+ identity and affective well-being, and the role of BIPOC identity as a moderator of this effect. Consistent with existing literature, LGBTQIA+ students reported lower affective well-being (B = -0.236, p < 0.001) and perceived greater college non-responsiveness (B = 1.255, p < 0.001) and stigma (B = 1.226, p < 0.001) than their cis-hetero counterparts. College non-responsiveness mediated the relationship between LGBTQIA+ identity and affective well-being; however, this effect was not moderated by BIPOC identity. Conversely, LGBTQIA+ stigma did not serve as a parallel mediator. Compared to their BIPOC peers, White LGBTQIA+ students perceived greater LGBTQIA+ stigma. We conclude with recommendations for the university to revise policies and cultivate a more LGBTQIA+-affirming culture, and we advise those who counsel prospective students to share these findings with their clients.