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14 - Technology, Social Media, and LGBTQ+ Mental Health

from Part IV - New Directions in LGBTQ+ Affirmative Counseling

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  31 October 2024

By
Bianca Augustine ,
T’Airra Belcher ,
Anthony Vajda  and
Jeffry Moe
Edited by
Jeffry Moe ,
Amber L. Pope ,
Dilani M. Perera  and
Narketta Sparkman-Key
Jeffry Moe
Affiliation:
Old Dominion University, Virginia
Amber L. Pope
Affiliation:
William & Mary
Dilani M. Perera
Affiliation:
Fairfield University, Connecticut
Narketta Sparkman-Key
Affiliation:
James Madison University, Virginia
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Summary

Technology continues to evolve, thereby shaping how individuals can connect. Through technological advances, individuals identifying across the LGBTQ+ spectrum have gained increased access to medical and mental health services and improved ways of developing community. In this chapter, we discuss how various forms of technology serve as resources for individuals across the LGBTQ+ spectrum. We illustrate how technology bolsters mental health, connectedness, and representation within this population. Furthermore, we explore the ways in which technology, including social media and dating applications, can pose various threats to LGBTQ+ individuals, including through the perpetuation of sexual racism. We conclude with a case example and questions for further reflection.

Keywords

Technologycyberbullyingsocial mediadating apps
Type
Chapter
Information
LGBTQ+ Affirmative Counseling
A Student and Practitioner Handbook
 , pp. 251 - 270
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2024

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