Religiosity, perceived family support, and gender disclosure of LGBTQ + medical students in Thailand

Abstract

Background: The well-being of LGBTQ + medical students can be influenced by religiosity, family support, and the disclosure of their gender identity or sexual orientation. These factors have frequently been overlooked and warrant further consideration in creating a supportive environment for all students.

Methods: This multicenter study investigated two main outcomes including the differences in religiosity and perceived family support between LGBTQ + and non-LGBTQ + medical students in Thailand, and the gender disclosure to family among LGBTQ + medical students. It was conducted among students from five medical schools across Thailand, using online questionnaires during the academic year 2021-2022. Data were collected on demographic characteristics, religiosity, gender identity/sexual orientation disclosure to family, and perceived family support. Comparisons between groups were conducted using chi-square test and Wilcoxon rank-sum test.

Results: Of the 1,322 participants, 31.2% identified themselves as LGBTQ+, among whom 81.8% were Buddhists. The proportion of non-religious LGBTQ + students was significantly higher (vs. non-LGBTQ+; 15.0% vs. 8.4%, respectively; p = 0.001). However, there was no statistical difference in religiosity between LGBTQ + and non-LGBTQ + students as well as between LGBTQ + subgroups. Although, 74% of LGBTQ + students reported good family support, significantly more LGBTQ + students perceived poor family support (vs. non-LGBTQ+, 7.0% vs. 4.7%; p = 0.002). Regarding the disclosure of gender identity or sexual orientation to the family, the majority of LGBTQ + individuals indicated either a non-disclosure or uncertainty. There were significant associations between perceived family support and the likelihood of disclosing one's identity to family members, as better perceived support was associated with higher disclosure rates.

Conclusions: No statistically significant difference in religiosity was found between LGBTQ + and non-LGBTQ + students. The majority of LGBTQ + medical students reported receiving good family support; however, among those who perceived their family's support to be lacking, there was a greater tendency to conceal their gender identity from their families. For future studies, it is crucial to investigate whether this concealment extends to other spheres of their lives and to assess the potential impact on their well-being, including mental health and quality of life.

Keywords: Family; Gender diversity; LGBTQ+; Medical student; Religiosity; Support.