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- Inclusion of LGBTQ+ Individuals in Hong Kong: A Scoping Review
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Abstract: Introduction Discussion on the rights and inclusion of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) individuals in Hong Kong is often based on taken-for-granted socio-cultural norms but not grounded in empirical studies. Methods A scoping review was conducted to map out the current status of LGBTQ+ inclusion in Hong Kong, with results reported according to PRISMA-ScR guidelines. The review captured 1205 unduplicated studies which were scoped to 152 peer-reviewed articles published from 2010 to 2022. Findings were categorised using an adapted Global LGBTI Inclusion Index into six domains: education, economic well-being, family, health, political and civic participation, and personal security and violence. Results LGBTQ+ individuals in Hong Kong face prevalent exclusion and discrimination across major domains of life, which does material harm to their well-being. This underscores the importance of legal protection and recognition to address the exclusion of LGBTQ+ individuals. Conclusions Gaps were identified for future research: (a) the need to address understudied domains other than health; (b) the need to focus on understudied populations (lesbian, bisexual, and transgender people); (c) the wide range of terminologies adopted in existing LGBTQ+ research; and (d) lack of representative data. Policy Implications. This review highlights the importance of collecting empirical data and obtaining representative data on the LGBTQ+ population to assess the current situation and progress made in LGBTQ+ inclusion in Hong Kong, and to inform policy changes related to LGBTQ+ rights.
PubDate: 2025-03-06
- Genitourinary Pain, Sexual Distress, and Quality of Sexual Life in Women
with and without Vulvodynia-
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Abstract: Introduction Vulvodynia is a serious public health problem. However, current studies that consider the sexual life of women with vulvodynia are very limited. This study aimed to determine genitourinary pain, sexual distress, and quality of sexual life of women with and without vulvodynia. Methods This is a descriptive, correlational, comparative study. This study was conducted with 220 women with and without vulvodynia who presented to the gynecology outpatient clinic of a Training and Research Hospital between January 2023 and May 2023. Data were collected using a personal information form, the Female Genitourinary Pain Index, the Female Sexual Distress Scale, and the Sexual Quality of Life Questionnaire-Female. Results Women with vulvodynia experienced more genitourinary pain discomfort, especially in the sub-dimensions of pain and discomfort, and their quality of life was lower than that of the control group (p
PubDate: 2025-03-04
- Barriers and Levers for PrEP Use by Migrant Women Sex Workers: a
Multilevel Qualitative Assessment-
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Abstract: Introduction HIV prevalence among cis and trans women sex workers (WSW) is higher than among other women of the same age. It is even higher among migrant women sex workers (MWSW). PrEP is a useful tool for reducing HIV transmission in high-risk populations. The objective of this study was to assess the barriers and action levers to facilitate access to PrEP among MWSW. Methods A qualitative study was conducted, combining semi-structured interviews, informal interviews, and participant observations. In a multi-level approach, our aim was to interview in parallel both MWSW and medical and social workers who frequently interact with them. Results We observed a significant lack of awareness about PrEP among MWSW. However, some of them showed interest when it was explained by the researchers, and wanted to be more involved in HIV prevention in general. Strong institutional resistance was observed among medical and social workers, mainly justified by a lack of time to address sexual health issues with increasingly precarious sex workers and an inability to provide them with long term follow-up. However, involvement of peer workers in sexual health prevention was considered an option by some medical and social workers. Conclusions This study highlights individual and institutional barriers to PrEP access for MWSW, along with key facilitators like peer involvement and integrated healthcare approaches. Improving uptake requires culturally and linguistically tailored interventions co-developed with MWSW and better training for healthcare providers to ensure an inclusive approach. Structural changes, including policy reforms and sustainable peer-led funding, are essential to bridge gaps in access and enhance sexual health outcomes for this vulnerable population. Social Policy Implications Strategies designed to enhance PrEP accessibility for MWSW should be grounded in community empowerment methodologies, leveraging peer-based interventions.
PubDate: 2025-03-03
- Effect of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic on the Sexual Functions of
Healthcare Providers-
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Abstract: Introduction The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) impacted both sexes. The close physical proximity between sexual partners during intercourse might impact the spread of the virus between them. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the sexual functions of the healthcare providers working in the isolation units of the hospitals. Methods This cross-sectional survey was conducted from December 2022 to February 2023 on 200 healthcare providers working in the isolation units of the hospitals dealing with COVID-19 cases, with a mean age of 39.7 ± 6.895 years, the tool used was an online questionnaire written in English and translated into Arabic. Results Statistically substantial variation existed among the participants prior to and after COVID regarding masturbation frequency for males per week (P = 0.018). Regarding the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF), a statistically substantial variation existed among the participants before and after COVID regarding the mean IIEF domain scores of the male participants. A statistically substantial variation existed among the participants before and after COVID regarding the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) domain scores of the female participants (P = 0.0183). Conclusions A significant decline in the frequencies of foreplay, sexual intercourse, and sexual pleasure among the Egyptian healthcare providers who are directly involved in the treatment of COVID-19 cases. Policy Implications People with a history of COVID-19 should be sexually treated to enhance foreplay, sexual intercourse, and sexual pleasure, as COVID-19 declines their frequency.
PubDate: 2025-03-03
- Extending Liz Kelly’s (1988) Continuum Framework: A Qualitative Study
with Substance-Involved Sexual Assault Survivors-
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Abstract: Introduction Liz Kelly introduced her framework for a “continuum of sexual violence” in 1988 to show the limits of legal definitions of sexual violence, demonstrating that sexualized harm occurs regardless of its illegality. What no scholar has done is apply this framework to understand sexual experiences, including sexual assault, which involve alcohol and drug use. The current paper extends Kelly’s work to substance-involved sexual experiences. Using substances during sex is also understood as sexually risky, regardless of whether people view that behavior as risky. Method The current study is a qualitative interview study of a majority queer women sample (N = 34) of substance-involved sexual assault survivors. Results Thematic analysis uncovered three themes related to survivors discussing their assault and wanted sex involving substance use, as well as how a continuum framework may be useful in accurately describing substance-involved sexual experiences, including sexual assault. Conclusions Survivors clearly distinguish their own assault from their wanted sex involving substance use, but as a collective, they differ on their conceptions of comfortability with level of substance use and having sex. Policy Implications Discussion of moving away from primarily legal policy to address and define substance-involved sexual assault is included.
PubDate: 2025-02-26
- Women’s Political Participation in City Council, Debre Tabor City
Administration, Ethiopia: An Exploration of Barriers-
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Abstract: Introduction Women have traditionally been marginalized within the political sphere, notwithstanding their significant achievements. The study looks at the barriers that stand in the way of women participating actively in politics, with a particular emphasis on the Debre Tabor City Council in Ethiopia. Methods A case study research design was used in the study. The sample techniques used were maximum variation, deviant case, and intensity sampling. Semi-structured interviews, life histories, and focus group discussions (FGD) were also used to obtain the data. Results The findings showed that women’s political engagement in city council was in danger due to a variety of factors, including gender bias in decision-making processes, the country’s shifting political landscape, and Islamic religion fellows’ perspectives. Conclusions Women faced certain obstacles when attempting to participate in city administration, particularly, in city council politics. Policy Implications In light of this, the research findings urge the need for gender-sensitive policy formulation within the city administration council.
PubDate: 2025-02-25
- Feelings About Abortion at Time of Care: Findings from an Ohio Abortion
Facility-
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Abstract: Introduction Prevailing abortion stigma may contribute to how people feel prior to receiving an abortion, and these feelings may influence healthcare decision making. We analyzed data from a patient intake questionnaire regarding feelings at the time of first abortion appointment. We described responses, co-occurrence of sentiments, and associations between responses and abortion characteristics. Methods We abstracted data from a random 20% sample of medical charts at an abortion facility in Ohio for patients who sought abortions from 2014–2018 (N = 762). We analyzed data from an intake questionnaire used to assess patients’ sentiments prior to their abortion. The questionnaire had 10 intake items to which patients could respond “yes,” “maybe,” or “no.” The questionnaire also asked, “How are you feeling today'” and listed several emotions for patients to select. Results About 37% of patients responded with exclusively positive emotions, 27% with mixed emotions, and 27% with exclusively negative emotions. Reporting mixed (adjusted odds ratio [95% CI]: 0.33 [0.16–0.71]) and negative only (0.38 [0.18–0.32]) sentiments was associated with a decreased odds of receiving an abortion. Responding “yes” (vs. “no”) to being afraid an abortion will hurt was associated with a decreased odds of having a procedural abortion vs. a medication abortion (0.62 [0.40–0.96]). Responding “yes” to “I am not sure if I am making the right decision” was associated with a longer time between consultation and the abortion (adjusted incident rate ratio [95% CI]: 2.16 [1.48–3.16]). Conclusions Sentiment toward abortion is complicated and deserves nuanced attention, rather than being grouped into a strictly positive or negative experience. Policy Implications Assessing patient sentiment prior to an abortion procedure may be valuable for providing patient-centered abortion care.
PubDate: 2025-02-21
- Religiosity as a Protective Factor for Bullying Victimization and
Substance Use in the USA: Examining Differences for Heterosexual and
Sexual Minority African American Adolescents in Chicago’s Southside-
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Abstract: Introduction Research consistently shows that victims of bullying are at significant risk of using substances in an attempt to manage the stress associated with victimization. Theories, including the self-medication hypothesis, general strain theory, social control theory, and social disorganization theory, elucidate how bullying victimization and substance use may be related. Researchers have also explored several protective factors, such as religiosity, that may disrupt the link between bullying victimization and substance use. The current study investigated whether various aspects of religiosity (i.e., importance of religious/spiritual beliefs and practices, praying/meditating, and attending church/religious services) would independently buffer the association between bullying victimization and substance use among African American adolescents. Despite the significant role of religion in the lives of African American youth, it is unclear the extent to which religiosity serves a protective role for youth who identify as a sexual minority. Methods The study included a sample of African American adolescents residing in four Chicago’s Southside neighborhoods who identified as heterosexual or a sexual minority. Results Bullying victimization was positively associated with substance use among both heterosexual and sexual minority adolescents. Among heterosexual adolescents, attending church/religious services was negatively associated with substance use, and believing in God moderated the association between bullying victimization and substance use. Among sexual minority youth who were bullied, attending church/religious services was positively associated with substance use. Conclusions The role of religiosity as a protective factor is complex and additional research is needed to understand better what aspects of religiosity might be protective for heterosexual and sexual minority adolescents. Policy Implications Policymakers need to understand the importance of developing a supportive environment that affirms students’ sexual orientation and gender identities.
PubDate: 2025-02-20
- How Social Support Affirms Identity in LGBQ Adults: A Qualitative
Exploration-
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Abstract: Introduction This paper presents a qualitative exploration of the role social support plays in identity affirmation, referring to the experience of feeling proud and viewing one’s sexual orientation as a positive aspect of one's identity. Methods A sample of 395 lesbian, gay, bisexual, and/or queer (LGBQ) adults provided responses to open-ended questions about whether and how social support facilitates sexual identity affirmation, alongside other potential contributors. Data were collected in 2022. Results Across eight themes, participants described a range of factors that either facilitated or impeded identity affirmation. Feelings of acceptance, comfort, and confidence were said to promote identity affirmation, as was a sense of understanding one’s identity and a lack of shame or isolation. Sources of social support were discussed, including support from the LGBTIQ + community; however, tensions within these communities were noted. Broader societal support was discussed as identity affirming and took several forms, including representation and visibility, normalisation, and legislation and political discourse. Finally, the different ways in which identity is affirmed across the lifespan are discussed. Conclusions The themes build upon the existing link between social support and identity affirmation and are understood through the lens of Bronfenbrenner’s bioecological systems theory. Policy Implications Findings have policy implications surrounding supportive legislation, more positive political discourse, and implementation of school-based educational interventions. Additionally, implications for professionals working with LGBQ individuals to better understand what identity affirmation is to this population and how it can be enhanced are discussed.
PubDate: 2025-02-19
- Development Policies and Discursive Conflicts in Contemporary Iranian
Sexuality-
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Abstract: Introduction Following the Islamic Revolution in 1979, Iranian society has experienced significant transformations in its sexual values, creating tensions between traditional Islamic norms and modern societal trends. The recent “Women, Life, Freedom” movement has gained global attention. This study examines the gender dynamics and discursive conflicts in contemporary Iranian sexuality as influenced by post-revolutionary development policies. Method Conducted from 2019 to 2022, this research analyzed post-Islamic Revolution developmental-cultural policies and included in-depth interviews with 21 participants opposing the government’s Islamic policies on sexuality. The sample encompassed diverse views on compulsory hijab, family formation, and high fertility rates. The study aimed to uncover the reasons behind these discursive conflicts and their manifestations in societal attitudes and behavior. Results The Islamic Republic government faced challenges in promoting Islamic development through cultural sexualization. Our analysis identifies various dominant sexual discourses, including narratives on population reduction, cultural invasion, cultural dialogue, Iranian-Islamic sexuality, and population increase. Critics argue that government policies on women’s rights, compulsory hijab, and high fertility rates are increasingly seen as outdated and incompatible with modern life. Economic and technological developments since the 1979 Revolution, along with globalization, have significantly shaped these emerging conflicts. Conclusion The regime’s control of sexuality is part of its plan to create an Islamic Ommat (community). The Islamic Republic’s governing philosophy is based on the compulsory hijab, family values, and high fertility. Implications To address conflicts in Iran, policymakers should consider the social landscape and evolving sexuality dynamics. As sexual rights become central to broader socio-political struggles, the regime’s rigidity strengthens the movements it seeks to suppress.
PubDate: 2025-02-17
- The Relationship Between Maternal Attachment and Sexual Self-Confidence in
Breastfeeding Women-
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Abstract: Introduction Maternal attachment and sexuality are sensitive issues affected by many factors, especially in breastfeeding women. This study aimed to determine the relationship between maternal attachment and sexual self-confidence in breastfeeding women. Methods The research was conducted as a descriptive relationship-seeking study. The data of the study was collected from 315 women between March 2022 and August 2022. The study data were collected through social media by transforming the personal information form, the sexual self-confidence scale, and the maternal attachment scale into an online questionnaire. Results Maternal attachment was found to be quite high with a score of 94.89 ± 3.02, and the total mean score of the sexual self-confidence scale was found to be 30.61 ± 6.37. It was seen that primiparous women had the highest mean of 96.87 ± 2.46 according to maternal attachment mean. It was observed that the highest value in the sexual self-confidence scale was found in women who graduated from primary school with an average of 32.06 ± 8.49. It was determined that there was a weak negative relationship between maternal attachment and sexual self-confidence. Conclusions It was observed that the demographic characteristics of breastfeeding women did not make a difference in maternal attachment or sexual self-confidence, and there was no significant relationship between maternal attachment and women’s sexual self-confidence. Policy Implications A better understanding of maternal attachment and sexual expectations in breastfeeding women has social and research implications. Healthcare professionals, especially nurses, should evaluate maternal attachment and sexual expectations in breastfeeding women and include them in their practices.
PubDate: 2025-02-15
- Mental Health Care for Transgender and Non-binary Adults: An Investigation
of Affirmative Practice, Therapy Experiences and Outcomes, and Reasons for
Treatment Termination-
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Abstract: Introduction It is widely acknowledged that mental health services should be affirming and tailored to meet the needs of TNB people, though only limited research has addressed this empirically. This study examined mental health help-seeking experiences of TNB adults and tested whether, and how, TNB-affirming practice predicts therapy outcomes. Methods A sample of 232 TNB therapy clients (M age = 26.98 years) completed a questionnaire assessing treatment characteristics and experiences, ratings of affirmative therapy practice, aspects of the therapeutic relationship, and therapy outcomes. Data were collected in 2018 from a sample of TNB individuals living in Australia. Results Depression, stress, and anxiety were the most commonly cited reasons for seeking help, and a sizeable proportion also sought help for gender-related factors. TNB-affirmative practice was associated with greater client satisfaction and greater therapy effectiveness; these associations were mediated by aspects of the therapeutic alliance. The most frequently cited reason for treatment termination was a lack of practitioner understanding, and only 22% of those who had terminated treatment did so because their problems had been resolved. Conclusions Results suggest the extent to which mental health professionals are TNB-affirming has important implications for the outcomes of mental health support among TNB individuals. Results also point to unmet mental health needs that are at least partially related to a lack of affirmative mental health care. Policy Implications Findings support recommendations for affirming and inclusive mental health services and suggest that the therapeutic alliance may be one mechanism through which affirmative practice could enhance therapy outcomes. We discuss policy and professional practice implications and highlight the need for further research focused on developing and testing the efficacy of tailored therapy interventions for TNB adults.
PubDate: 2025-02-14
- Psychosocial and Cultural Factors Affecting Access to Sexual and
Reproductive Health in Rural Populations-
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Abstract: Introduction Rural populations have lower access to sexual and reproductive health than urban populations. This inequality is partially generated by psychosocial and cultural factors that influence the dynamics of interaction between health agents and rural residents. Few research works have developed a typology to systematically describe these factors. Methods An exploratory-descriptive and cross-sectional study was carried out in rural areas of 2 Argentine provinces. Fifty-six semi-structured interviews were conducted with agents of local public health services and rural dwellers in 2012 and 2013. The analysis was performed using a qualitative approach. Results The study identified eight categories of psychosocial and cultural factors that affect access to sexual and reproductive health. These factors operate at the institutional and individual levels and modulate the relationship between rural people and health system actors. Conclusions This work involves dissimilar social actors through the use of a relational perspective. Their views of the process of access to sexual and reproductive health were reconstructed, and the psychosocial and cultural factors affecting access were recognized from both perspectives. Based on the results, we generated a categorization that helps to comprehensively organize the complex process of access to sexual and reproductive health. Policy Implications The results are useful for both the training of health agents and the design and implementation of sexual and reproductive health public policies in the rural area.
PubDate: 2025-02-14
- Doing “Dirty Work” in Academia: Personal and Institutional Experiences
of Researchers Working on LGBTQI + Topics in Europe-
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Abstract: Introduction The emergence and development of LGBTQI + studies within the past few decades have faced many challenges. Although there is a growing body of scientific knowledge and courses, the most recent wave of backlash against gender and sexuality studies, known as anti-gender mobilization, has drastically threatened the advancement of the field and the well-being of scholars. Based on this, the study aims to explore the personal and professional challenges faced by scholars working on LGBTQI + topics in Europe. Methods This study is based on 49 self-reported online questionnaires with scholars working on LGBTQI + issues across Europe. The data was collected between February 2022 and April 2023. The submitted questionnaires were individually coded with the use of MaxQDA software. Results The data suggests that (1) an increasing number of scholars engage in LGBTQI+ studies as a personal reflection and deploy their knowledge in activism; (2) almost half of the participants have experienced personal and institutional challenges due to the nature of their work; (3) the anti-gender mobilizations have intensified and strengthened the “dirty work” status of LGBTQI + studies; and (4) more than half of the respondents have confirmed political hostility and public attacks towards LGBTQI + studies in their country, and one third have expressed fear of future political attack in contexts where it is not prevalent currently. Conclusions Researchers working on LGBTQI + topics experience personal and professional difficulties that those not involved in this type of research are less likely to experience. While the threats and difficulties at the workplace and in the institutional context have affected the well-being of the participants, there is an increasing number of people who are engaged in LGBTQI + topics due to anti-gender mobilization and political hostility. Policy Implications Although anti-gender mobilization has become a significant political force in the past few years, there has been no coordinated response to these threats, which attack the legitimacy of LGBTQI + studies and the well-being of scholars. An integrated response and policy implementation are crucial for the development of the field. More specifically, the following should be considered when approaching the issue systematically: (1) professional solidarity; (2) Coordinated institutional support and framework on an institutional level; (3) a common strategic plan by the major professional associations; (4) inclusion of anti-gender mobilization in the strategic policies and research priorities of EU programs and politics; and (5) reconsideration of national policies regarding the production and dissemination of scientific knowledge.
PubDate: 2025-02-13
- The Association Between Dating App Usage and Body Image Dissatisfaction
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Abstract: Introduction Recent studies show that men who have sex with men (MSM) face body image concerns. This research examines the link between dating app usage and body image dissatisfaction among young MSM in Hong Kong, based on the transactional model of social media and body image concerns and cultivation theory. Methods A mixed-methods design was employed, with a quantitative phase followed by a qualitative phase. In the quantitative phase, 214 young MSM (18–34 years old) completed a survey assessing their dating app usage, muscularity ideal, and body image dissatisfaction in August and September 2021. In the qualitative phase, 14 selected MSM participated in semi-structured interviews in September and October 2022, reflecting on the impact of dating app usage on their body image. Results The quantitative phase revealed that more frequent dating app use was indirectly associated with a higher level of body image dissatisfaction via a stronger perception of muscularity ideal in the gay community. This association was weaker among MSM who were relatively older and those who exercised more frequently. The qualitative phase showed that relatively older MSM had connections to a broader gay culture and that MSM who exercised more often saw a wider range of body types, making them less susceptible to the recurring muscular images on dating apps. Conclusions While dating apps cultivate muscularity ideal, access to a more diverse gay culture can alleviate the influence of these apps on MSM’s body image concerns. Policy Implications Creating spaces for young MSM to expand their social circles and connect with diverse peer groups can help counter the negative influence of dating apps.
PubDate: 2025-02-12
- “I’m Out Here Living My Best Life. Hallelujah on Being Queer!”: A
Qualitative Exploration of the Coming Out Process Among Formerly
Incarcerated LGBTQ + People-
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Abstract: Introduction There are a variety of experiences that LGBTQ + people encounter during their coming out process. However, little is known about the impact of coming out on offending and desistance trajectories. To better understand this, the current study explores the coming out process of formerly incarcerated LGBTQ + people. Methods This study qualitatively explores the life-course development of formerly incarcerated LGBTQ + people using data from life history interviews with 25 LGBTQ + people who have been incarcerated in a jail or prison for at least a month. These qualitative interviews were conducted from July to December of 2022. This article considers (1) the recognition and understanding of LGBTQ + identity, (2) the factors that shape coming out, (3) the links between coming out, offending, and desistance, and (4) coming out experiences within criminal legal contexts. Results Findings demonstrate diverse experiences with coming out across the life-course, which were often shaped by generational and religious forces. Findings showed that coming out functioned as a developmental turning point in three main ways, including increases and decreases in offending. Furthermore, coming out within criminal legal contexts was met with discrimination. Conclusion This study shows that queer turning points have an impact on the offending and desistance trajectories of LGBTQ + people. It also presents opportunities for future research to obtain a deeper understanding of the experiences of LGBTQ + people in the criminal legal system. Policy Implications This article further illuminates the need for better policies, especially in carceral environments, that protect and create space for LGBTQ + people to develop and thrive in their identities. Within carceral settings, I recommend LGBTQ + cultural competency training for carceral administration and staff and the creation of LGBTQ + social support groups as a first step to improving the lives of LGBTQ + people who have contact with the criminal legal system.
PubDate: 2025-02-01
- “I Had to Make it Safe in My Mind”: Strategizing and Harm Insulation
Among Sexual Assault Survivors-
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Abstract: Introduction Sexual assault remains one of the most underreported crimes in modern society. Survivors of sexual assault often face intense societal scrutiny and judgement for how they choose to navigate their experiences with sexual assault. Such judgments, often informed by oppressive ideologies, expose survivors to continued harm. We examined the strategies survivors used in navigating their experiences with sexual assault, and how survivors developed strategies to insulate themselves from harm. Methods We used Boejie’s constant comparative method to conduct a secondary qualitative data analysis of 22 semi-structured interviews collected between 2018 and 2019 from survivors who were sexually assaulted between the ages of 12 and 17. The sample includes stories from an array of diverse voices across varying gender and racial identities. Results Survivors in this study utilized five distinct strategies to insulate themselves and others from harm: story management, reframing, regulatory, avoidance, and re-direction. The survivor-generated strategies in this study demonstrated the powerful influence of oppression, and wider societal understandings of sex and sexual violence rooted in oppressive ideologies. Conclusions The description of surviving as a process, in relation to sexual assault, assisted us in developing an Activated Strategizing Framework. This framework draws attention to the ways in which systems of oppression infiltrate one’s psyche and shape strategizing processes following a sexual assault or rape, and how the decisions made by survivors are guided by their desire and need for harm insulation. Policy Implications Implications call for research, policy, and practice responses that are informed by survivor experiences and insights, while also reckoning with the influence of oppression on the manifestations of sexual violence and those who labor to survive it.
PubDate: 2025-01-31
- Centering Transgender Voices at the US-Mexico “Borderlands”: A
Call to Action-
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Abstract: Background In 2023, there was a wave of anti-LGBTQIA + legislation across the USA and particularly in the state of Texas. Texas legislation like Senate Bill (SB) 12 banning public drag performances important to the community, SB 14 banning gender-affirming care for youth, and SB 15, forcing transgender and gender non-conforming people to participate in intercollegiate sports according to their sex assigned at birth, has created a chilling effect on transgender persons, migrants, educators, and researchers. House Bill 900 aims to remove books from K-12 schools which are deemed harmful to youth based on representations of sex and gender diversity, while SB 17 removed DEI considerations from university hiring. Methods This article is an analysis conducted in 2024 of this policy nexus at the US-Mexico Borderlands from a socio-ecological perspective. To center the voices of transgender people of color (TPC) from the Borderlands, we interview three TPC, including the second author, and ask about the potential impact these bills will have in their native region of El Paso, Texas. Results Results show that SB 14 and SB 17 were believed to be the most structurally oppressive bills, and interviewees reported a general fear of the impact that these bills will have in their local community. Conclusions The article concludes with a call to action for resistance through self-reflexive legislative initiatives from policymakers, scholarship that focuses on national solutions for TPC health inequities, student education, and community engagement. These analyses and recommendations are intended as a template for evaluating and addressing barriers to health equity for transgender persons in other geopolitical contexts.
PubDate: 2025-01-31
- Mapping Progress in Workplace Protections: A Study of Global
LGBTQI + Workplace Antidiscrimination Legislation in 2016 and 2023-
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Abstract: Introduction Despite global commitments to advance economic inclusion for all, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and intersex (LGBTQI +) workers around the world continue to face workplace discrimination based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, and sex characteristics (SOGIESC). Developing a detailed global understanding of national laws addressing SOGIESC-based employment discrimination is a critical step towards making progress in these commitments. Methods In this study, we systematically analyzed how detailed measures of legal prohibitions of SOGIESC-based employment discrimination across hiring, pay, promotions, access to training, and terminations changed from 2016 to 2023. Additionally, we examined measures that support implementation and enforcement, as well as exceptions to protections. We also assessed differences in protections between regions as classified by the World Bank using Pearson’s Chi-squared tests. Results We found that 71 countries prohibited at least some form of workplace discrimination based on sexual orientation, 41 countries did so based on gender identity, 18 did so based on gender expression, and 14 did so based on sex characteristics. Conclusions Notable legal gaps remained in prohibition specificity, nationwide coverage, and enforcement mechanisms. Protections are also undermined by exemptions for faith-based institutions found in 4 countries. While progress in protections is sizable and steady, inequities persist across regions. Policy Implications These findings offer actionable insights regarding the strengths and shortcomings of current national laws and can act as the foundation for further legal progress in protecting LGBTQI + people at work.
PubDate: 2025-01-30
- Online Sex Education Based on the Good Enough Sex Model on Newlywed
Couples: A Protocol for Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial Comparing
Male Partner Involvement-
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Abstract: Introduction Despite the importance of male involvement in sex education sessions, mens' participation is often limited. The purpose of this study is to examine the impact of the spouse’s presence in online group sex education based on the Good Enough Sex model. Methods This study randomized controlled clinical trial will be conducted in 2024 on 104 couples who have been married between 1 and 5 years. The participants are randomized to one of two intervention groups. In Group A, women attend all four sessions individually, while in Group B, women participate in two sessions alone and two sessions with their husbands. Both groups receive online group sex education based on the GES model in 4 weekly 90-min sessions. Results Primary outcomes include sexual satisfaction, function, sexual communication, distress, and frequency of sexual intercourse. Secondary outcomes include pornography use, problematic pornography use, extramarital affairs, and frequency of masturbation. Three months after the intervention, men and women of both groups will complete the questionnaires. Conclusion Does the presence of men in sex education classes have an effective impact on couples’ sexual health. Policy Implications Suppose the results show that mens' presence in counseling sessions effectively improves couples’ sex lives. In that case, strategies should address barriers preventing men from attending counseling and sex education. If the difference between the two groups is not significant, it indicates the impact of womens' participation in sex counseling sessions alone, and appropriate policies should increase women’s access to comprehensive sexual health education even in the absence of men. Trial Registration IRCT20120609009975N11, registered at 2023–12-26.
PubDate: 2025-01-29
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