The importance of LGBTQ + identity in the relationship between LGBTQ + microaffirmations and well‐being among LGBTQ + youth of color

Abstract Much of what is known about the psychological and developmental experiences of LGBTQ+ youth of color comes from a deficit‐based perspective, seeking to identify what they lack, rather than what assets they hold. The current study takes a strengths‐based perspective and examines positive, developmentally relevant assets among LGBTQ+ youth of color and how these assets interact to shape well‐being. More specifically, the study assesses the relationship between LGBTQ+ microaffirmations and well‐being and the potential moderating role of LGBTQ+ identity in that relationship. In the study, 156 LGBTQ+ youth of color aged 13–26 ( M age = 20.32 years, SD = 2.27; 16 men/cis men/male, 32 women/cis women/female, 25 transgender men, 25 transgender women, 49 nonbinary/gender nonconforming, 9 unsure or other gender identity) were recruited from LGBTQ+ youth‐serving organizations in New York State and completed surveys in the summer of 2024. Significant positive correlations were observed between LGBTQ+ microaffirmations and psychological, emotional, and social well‐being. Furthermore, LGBTQ+ centrality and private regard moderated the relationship between LGBTQ+ microaffirmations and well‐being outcomes. Associations were generally significant at average and high levels of centrality and private regard, although the association with social well‐being was significant only at high levels of private regard. LGBTQ+ public regard was not a significant moderator. Results shed new light on two promotive resilience assets that LGBTQ+ youth of color possess and highlight the important synergistic relationship between LGBTQ+ microaffirmations and identity, and their association with well‐being.