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Moving Beyond Vulnerability and Focusing on Resilience: An Intersectional Framework for Posttraumatic Growth in LGBTQ+ People of Color
  • Caterina Obenauf,
  • Dawn Szymanski,
  • Gina Owens
Caterina Obenauf
The University of Tennessee Knoxville

Corresponding Author:obenauf@tennessee.edu

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Dawn Szymanski
The University of Tennessee Knoxville
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Gina Owens
The University of Tennessee Knoxville
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Abstract

In the context of the legacy of deficit-focused research and application of theoretical models in research on minoritized groups that are underrepresented in the literature, we explored the strengths-based literature among LGBTQ+ people of color to develop a more inclusive and relevant understanding of how PTG occurs in this population. The intersectional posttraumatic growth (PTG) Model is tailored to the experiences of LGBTQ+ people of color that builds upon previous models of PTG, intersectionality theory, and empirical findings of trauma and PTG among LGBTQ+ people of color. Our intersectional PTG model incorporates the unique intrapersonal, interpersonal, institutional, and cultural factors that are unique to this population and contribute to PTG. We challenge the limited scope of Criterion A traumatic events and emphasize empirical findings that support that LGBTQ+ people of color often experience posttraumatic stress after oppression and discrimination. Our model also recognizes the impact of intersecting risk factors, such as gendered racism, that may occur on various levels. Our model acknowledges that LGBTQ+ people of color have often demonstrated PTG in the face of adversity. Intrapersonal factors such as cognitive flexibility, interpersonal factors such as social support, and institutional and cultural factors such as identity-related activism are identified as key contributors to resilience. We discuss practice implications, highlighting that clinicians should recognize limitations of traditional trauma frameworks and adopt culturally sensitive approaches when working with LGBTQ+ people of color. Overall, our model provides a foundation for strengths-based interventions and research, emphasizing resiliency and potential for PTG in this population.
04 Feb 2024Submitted to Journal of Clinical Psychology
16 Feb 2024Review(s) Completed, Editorial Evaluation Pending
27 Jun 20241st Revision Received
28 Jun 2024Review(s) Completed, Editorial Evaluation Pending
28 Jun 2024Reviewer(s) Assigned
09 Sep 2024Editorial Decision: Accept