June 24, 2020
A research centre at UBC School of Nursing wants to learn about the experiences of young South Asian gay and bisexual men, especially at home and in school. As part of the Stigma and Resilience Among Vulnerable Youth Centre (SARAVYC), Dr. Monica Rana, post-doctoral lead for the study, interviews participants about their lives as gay or bisexual South Asian men in Canada.
“Supportive families and schools are important to help youth manage stress and improve health,” said Dr. Rana. “However, there is no research about how well schools and families support South Asian gay and bisexual youth.”
Because of stigma and discrimination, gay and bisexual youth are at higher risk for negative physical and mental health outcomes, including suicidal thoughts and attempts, substance use disorders, and sexually transmitted infections. Queer youth of colour – including South Asian youth – may experience additional stress, due to facing racism as well as sexual minority stigma.
“Being targeted by racism can be challenging for anyone, and those challenges increase when also experiencing discrimination due to sexual orientation,” said Dr. Rana. “We want to understand how families and schools influence these outcomes for gay and bisexual South Asian young men.”
The study is open to South Asian gay and bisexual men who are 19 to 25 and living in Canada. To apply, visit saravyc.ubc.ca.
Photo by Kunal Goswami on Unsplash
