Presentation Type
Three Minute Thesis
Category
Social Sciences/Humanities
Abstract/Artist Statement
Purpose:
Mental health conditions are the leading cause of pregnancy-related deaths in the United States. Evidence suggests that BIPOC, rural, and sexual and gender minority parents may be at higher risk of perinatal mental health disorders due to stigma and social determinants of health, yet less research explores perinatal mental health among these populations. Additionally, there is a significant need for knowledge of protective factors for improved perinatal mental health, crucial for developing evidence-based interventions. This dissertation research seeks to investigate perinatal mental health and the provision of social support among Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, and Two-spirit (LGBTQ2S+) parents in a rural context.
Methods:
This project was completed using community-based participatory research methods (CBPR) to empower participants and volunteers from the LGBTQ2S+ community. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with six LGBTQ2S+ parents who had given birth, adopted, or fostered a child since 2022. 52 LGBTQ2S+ parents completed a statewide survey measuring social support, anxiety, and depression. A volunteer community advisory board comprised of LGBTQ2S+ parents co-designed the interview guideand survey, and contributed to thematic analysis.
Originality:
This study provides rich narrative data and quantitative estimates of perinatal mental health and social support among LGBTQ2+ parents in a rural context, helping to fill a significant gap in perinatal mental health research. No other study has investigatedperinatal mental health or social support among LGBTQ2S+ parents in Montana.
Significance:
Qualitative insights of this research provide a systems-based perspective on barriers and support for LGBTQ2S+ families. Quantitative data estimates perinatal mental health among this population in the state. The results of this research will be used to design future intervention studies to improve perinatal mental health outcomes, particularly among LGBTQ2S+ families.
Mentor Name
Jessica L. Liddell
Queer Parenting in Montana: An Exploration of Perinatal Mental Health and Social Support
UC North Ballroom
Purpose:
Mental health conditions are the leading cause of pregnancy-related deaths in the United States. Evidence suggests that BIPOC, rural, and sexual and gender minority parents may be at higher risk of perinatal mental health disorders due to stigma and social determinants of health, yet less research explores perinatal mental health among these populations. Additionally, there is a significant need for knowledge of protective factors for improved perinatal mental health, crucial for developing evidence-based interventions. This dissertation research seeks to investigate perinatal mental health and the provision of social support among Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, and Two-spirit (LGBTQ2S+) parents in a rural context.
Methods:
This project was completed using community-based participatory research methods (CBPR) to empower participants and volunteers from the LGBTQ2S+ community. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with six LGBTQ2S+ parents who had given birth, adopted, or fostered a child since 2022. 52 LGBTQ2S+ parents completed a statewide survey measuring social support, anxiety, and depression. A volunteer community advisory board comprised of LGBTQ2S+ parents co-designed the interview guideand survey, and contributed to thematic analysis.
Originality:
This study provides rich narrative data and quantitative estimates of perinatal mental health and social support among LGBTQ2+ parents in a rural context, helping to fill a significant gap in perinatal mental health research. No other study has investigatedperinatal mental health or social support among LGBTQ2S+ parents in Montana.
Significance:
Qualitative insights of this research provide a systems-based perspective on barriers and support for LGBTQ2S+ families. Quantitative data estimates perinatal mental health among this population in the state. The results of this research will be used to design future intervention studies to improve perinatal mental health outcomes, particularly among LGBTQ2S+ families.