Growing social isolation gap for sexual minorities
Study finds widening social isolation gap between sexual minority and heterosexual adults.
Why it matters
- Social isolation is a key predictor of poor health outcomes.
- Understanding disparities can inform public health policies.
By the numbers
- Sample size: over 13,800 individuals.
- Social isolation measured across four domains.
- Mostly heterosexual individuals show increasing isolation over time.
The big picture
- Social isolation disparities by sexual orientation start early and widen over time.
- Different patterns observed among men and women.
- Mostly heterosexual individuals may face unique social challenges.
What they're saying
- Comments highlight societal acceptance, family rejection, and political perspectives.
- Some question the findings, suggesting potential bias.
Caveats
- Study uses binary measure of gender, may not capture all identities.
- Social isolation measures may not capture all aspects of connectedness.
- Limited to a specific generation (born in 1970s-80s).
What’s next
- Further research needed on how social isolation affects health outcomes later in life.
- Potential policy and community support interventions to reduce isolation.