Exploring Sense of Community as a Resource for Mental Well-Being for Women Identifying as Lesbian, Bisexual or Queer in Pretoria, South Africa

Abstract

Lesbian, bisexual, and queer (LBQ) women in South Africa face stigma, discrimination and hate crime in the context of identifying with non-normative sexualities. We also know that discrimination, stigma, and marginalization are social determinants of health for individuals who identify as LBQ, and that these determinants have especially severe impacts for mental well-being. Research further suggest that a sense of community can be a resource for well-being when identifying as a sexual minority, as the community can provide social support, a sense of belonging and fulfil other needs such as emotional safety. This study I therefore aims to explore how having a sense of community can be used as a resource for well-being when identifying as an LBQ woman in Pretoria, South Africa.