RELIGIOSITY AS A MODERATOR: UNDERSTANDING EMOTIONAL PROBLEMS IN LESBIAN, GAY, BISEXUAL YOUTH.

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to investigate the impact of religiosity on the mental health of LGB youth using data from the Dutch Health Behaviour in School-aged Children Study (2017/2018). It investigates whether LGB youth have more emotional problems than heterosexual peers and whether this is amplified by the potential moderating role of religiosity. A cross-sectional study of 6,647 high school students used the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) for emotional problems and a single-item question for religiosity. Both hypotheses are tested using linear regression, including control variables. The first hypothesis is confirmed, with LGB youth reporting higher emotional problems than their heterosexual peers. However, there is no evidence that religiosity is significantly moderating the relationship between sexual orientation and emotional problems among LGB youth. The study explores mental health disparities among LGB youth and emphasizes the importance of addressing societal discrimination and the need for intervention.