Desfechos de Saúde de Jovens de Minorias Sexuais no Canadá: um panorama

Health Outcomes of Sexual-Minority Youth in Canada: an Overview

Abstract

Objectives: The objectives of this scientifi c article are to (1) document health outcomes among sexual-minority youth
(SMY) in Canadá; and (2) identify sexual-minority-specifi c risk and protective factors. Data Sources: We conducted a review
of Canadian data published after 2005 on the mental, physical and sexual health outcomes of SMY using relevant keywords.
A total of 19 empirical studies and 2 research reports were included. Data Synthesis: The studies reviewed included 53 to 30
588 respondents (total = 81 567). SMY accounted for 15.86% of the total sample. Overall, SMY in Canadá show negative
health outcomes in proportions varying from 7% to 69.4%, the most common issues being psychological distress and
maladjustment. SMYs are more likely than their heterosexual peers to report psychological distress/ malfunctioning, suicidal
thoughts, misuse of substances, condomless intercourse, pregnancy involvement. Main SMY-specifi c risk factors were family
rejection of one's sexual-minority orientation, homophobic bullying and victimization, and internalized homophobia. Among the few protective factors that were reported, having close orientation from family and school, school safety,
parental support and sports involvement decreased the odds of negative health outcomes. Conclusions: Canadian data
show that SMYs are more likely to experience negative health outcomes than their heterosexual peers. These results are
consistent with data from all over the world. Recommendations for research and intervention are discussed.