AbstractsPsychology

In this correlational study, the connection between sexual orientation microaggressions and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) has been evaluated. This researcher measured the perception and impact of homonegative microaggressions, utilizing the Homonegative Microaggression Scale (Wright & Wegner, 2012), as well as the severity of posttraumatic symptoms, utilizing the Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Checklist - Civilian Version (Weathers, Litz, Huska, & Keane, 1994). The sample size of 90 lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) participants was based on a population size of eight million, with a confidence level of 95% and a confidence interval of +/- 5%. These participants were recruited through public and semi-private LGB organizations. Completion of the measures occurred through an online survey system at the convenience of the participants. The results of the study revealed a positive correlation between reported posttraumatic symptoms and microaggressive experiences and between posttraumatic symptoms and their perceived impact on participants. Additionally, a statistically significant difference between LGB and heterosexual participants' experiences of microaggressions was seen, as well as a statistically significant difference in reported posttraumatic symptoms related to homonegative experiences. The findings suggested that there may be a link between homonegative microaggressions and traumatic stress symptoms, which may demonstrate the potential for insidious trauma to be a factor in LGB minority stress.