Grace Van Benschoten
Research Mentor(s): Jess Francis-Levin
Mentor Department: Life Course Development
Authors: Grace Van Benschoten, Emily Briggs, Jess Francis-Levin
Session: Session 3 (11:00am – 11:50am)
Presentation Type: Poster 65
Abstract
This study investigates the association between technology use and the health of the LGBTQ+ population, specifically looking at how social media use impacts depression among older LGBTQ+ adults. The LGBTQ+ community is underrepresented in datasets globally, which may skew research and policy, making it difficult to address disparities. More inclusive datasets are crucial for achieving equity and social progress. Methods: Data collection involved quantitative data gathered from an online survey. Participants (n=361) were 18-74 years old and all identified as members of the LGBTQ+ community. Results: We utilized “R†software to analyze and organize the quantitative data from the survey and identify patterns. Among the assessed social media platforms (email, texting, video calls, social media, dating apps), regression analysis revealed that social media consumption—specifically communication via video calls—was the only significant (p < .001) factor influencing depressive symptoms. Through this data, we aim to increase the representation of the LGBTQ+ population in datasets, promoting global equity and social progress. We also seek to inspire further research into the connections between technology and the health of the LGBTQ+ population. Moving forward, it will be essential to develop a larger, more racially diverse dataset, which would be more generalizable and globally representative. Additionally, further research on this topic should examine specific uses of social media (e.g., passive consumption versus active engagement) and investigate the potential impact of different types of social media use on depressive symptoms.
