Asian American and Pacific Islander Sexual and Gender Minority Mental Health

Abstract

<p>Psychological research on sexual and gender minority (SGM) people of color has grown in recent years; however, little is still understood about the experiences of Asian American and Pacific Islander SGMs. The purpose of this chapter is to synthesize the current research that examines the intersections of the racial identity of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, SGM identity, and the mental health of Asian American and Pacific Islander SGMs. Historical contexts of attitudes toward SGMs in Asian and Pacific Island countries as well as in the United States are provided to contextualize the specific sociocultural issues faced by Asian American and Pacific Islander SGMs in the United States. The authors also discuss the role of specific Asian American and Pacific Islander cultural values such as gender norms, family values, and loss of face in the development and expression of SGM identity. This chapter also examines the unique mental health risks faced by Asian American and Pacific Islander SGMs through the lens of double minority stress. The authors conclude with recommendations for directions of future research.</p>