Self-concept and self-stigma in lesbians and gay men

This study examined the associations among three aspects of self-concept (self-esteem, self-concept clarity and sexual identity confusion), self-stigma and depressive symptoms. Two hundred and eighty eight participants (163 lesbians and 125 gay men) completed an anonymous, online survey. Results indicated that individuals with lower self-esteem, lower self-concept clarity and higher sexual identity confusion reported higher self-stigma. Furthermore, the negative association between self-concept clarity and self-stigma was significant for individuals with lower self-esteem, but not those with higher self-esteem. Finally, the positive association between self-stigma and depressive symptoms was significant for individuals with lower self-esteem, but not those with higher self-esteem, and it was stronger for those with lower sexual identity confusion. The current findings highlight the importance of self-concept in the internalisation of sexual stigma and its sequelae.