Minority Stress and Intersectionality : A Meta-Analysis

Abstract

Minority stress theory provides researchers with a foundational base for studies within the marginalized community. Intersectionality describes the interlocking systems of oppression faced by minority individuals. The goal of this meta-analysis was to determine if minority stress research taking an intersectional approach would have greater effect sizes compared to those that do not take an intersectional approach. Eight research articles studying minority stress and depression were analyzed, identifying four overarching categories correlates of depression can fit into: the impact of stigma and discrimination on depressive symptoms; the impact of self-acceptance versus internalized homophobia on depressive symptoms; the impact of social support on depressive symptoms; and the impact of outness versus concealment on depressive symptoms. Self-acceptance was identified as the strongest predictor and correlate of depression- suggesting an imperative need to promote self-acceptance within marginalized groups. Overall, there was similar strength of correlates in intersectional vs non-intersectional studies. However, several of the overarching categories and additional miscellaneous correlates had a stronger correlation if the original study was intersectional. This suggests the possibility of intersectional studies being more applicable to large-scale populations, demonstrating a need for future intersectional research.