The importance of LGBTQ+ identity in the relationship between LGBTQ+ microaffirmations and well-being among LGBTQ+ youth of color.

Much of what is known about the psychological and developmental experiences of LGBTQ+ youth of color comes from a deficit-based perspective, seeking to identify what they lack, rather than what assets they hold. The current study takes a strengths-based perspective and examines positive, developmentally relevant assets among LGBTQ+ youth of color and how these assets interact to shape well-being. More specifically, the study assesses the relationship between LGBTQ+ microaffirmations and well-being and the potential moderating role of LGBTQ+ identity in that relationship. In the study, 156 LGBTQ+ youth of color aged 13-26 (Mage = 20.32 years, SD = 2.27; 16 men/cis men/male, 32 women/cis women/female, 25 transgender men, 25 transgender women, 49 nonbinary/gender nonconforming, 9 unsure or other gender identity) were recruited from LGBTQ+ youth-serving organizations in New York State and completed surveys in the summer of 2024. Significant positive correlations were observed between LGBTQ+ microaffirmations and psychological, emotional, and social well-being. Furthermore, LGBTQ+ centrality and private regard moderated the relationship between LGBTQ+ microaffirmations and well-being outcomes. Associations were generally significant at average and high levels of centrality and private regard, although the association with social well-being was significant only at high levels of private regard. LGBTQ+ public regard was not a significant moderator. Results shed new light on two promotive resilience assets that LGBTQ+ youth of color possess and highlight the important synergistic relationship between LGBTQ+ microaffirmations and identity, and their association with well-being.