Mental Health, Resilience, and Well-Being Among Sexual Minority College Students: A Study Framed by the Minority Stress and Minority Resilience Models

Juan Xi () and Robert L. Peralta
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Juan Xi: Department of Sociology, University of Akron, 302 Buchtel Common, Akron, OH 44325, USA
Robert L. Peralta: Department of Sociology, University of Akron, 302 Buchtel Common, Akron, OH 44325, USA

Social Sciences, 2025, vol. 14, issue 4, 1-21

Abstract: This study contributes to the understanding and promotion of mental health among sexual minority college students by examining a comprehensive range of mental health outcomes, including psychological distress and indicators of well-being. Using survey data from 521 students at a US state university, we applied the minority stress model and the minority resilience model, while also considering the minority mental health paradox, to compare mental health outcomes between sexual minority and heterosexual students. Our findings indicate that sexual minority students report higher levels of depression, anxiety, and self-harming behaviors compared to their heterosexual peers. Additionally, they score lower on measures of positive mental health and well-being, including inner peace, environmental mastery, happiness, life satisfaction, life purpose, self-perceived health, and fulfilling relationships. We further found that sexual minority students exhibit lower resilience, largely due to insecurities related to safety, food, and housing. These findings underscore the need for targeted programs and services to support the well-being of sexual minority students and foster healthier college environments.

Keywords: mental health and well-being; sexual minority college students; minority stress model; minority resilience model (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: A B N P Y80 Z00 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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