Meta Analysis Final (1).xlsx

Over recent years, evidence has increasingly shown that parental rejection significantly impacts mental health outcomes and risk behaviors among LGBTQ+ individuals. To quantify these effects, we conducted a systematic review of 21 studies examining associations between parental rejection or acceptance and outcomes such as depression, suicidal ideation, substance use, and sexual risk behaviors. Most of the studies reviewed were cross-sectional and predominantly conducted in the United States, which may limit applicability across diverse cultural contexts. Results reveal a clear pattern: LGBTQ+ individuals experiencing parental rejection report higher rates of depressive symptoms, suicidality, and engagement in substance use and risky sexual behaviors. In contrast, parental acceptance serves as a protective factor across these outcomes. Limitations in generalizability and causality were noted due to the cross-sectional designs and lack of subgroup analyses within LGBTQ+ populations. Based on empirical findings, we propose that culturally specific family-based interventions, alongside longitudinal research, are crucial to understanding and addressing these disparities in mental health and well-being among LGBTQ+ individuals.