The Struggle And Strength Of Sexual Minorities And Suicidality: A Qualitative Interpretive Meta-synthesis

Abstract

The researcher conducted a Qualitative Interpretive Meta-Synthesis (QIMS) of the intersection of sexual minority status and suicidality. Seven qualitative research studies were identified which included the stories of members of the gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender (GLBT) community (n=96). Five overarching themes were discovered: Internal Struggle, External Struggle, Isolation, Internal Strength, and External Strength. The Interpersonal Theory of Suicide was used to guide the interpretation of the findings of this QIMS in order to expand the understanding of suicide as it applies to the GLBT community. Implications for research, practice, and policy are discussed.