Trauma and posttraumatic stress among 2SLGBTQIA+ populations: Introduction to the special issue

Abstract

The special issue on trauma and posttraumatic stress among two‐spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer, intersex, asexual, and people with other diverse gender identities and sexual orientations (2SLGBTQIA+) populations comes amid heightened public health concerns driven by increased stigma and discrimination. In our introduction, we present the articles in the issue, which highlight the complexity of trauma and its effects as experienced by 2SLGBTQIA+ populations. These contributions, which advance science and inform public health research, employ quantitative, qualitative, or longitudinal methods. Areas of focus include: the impacts of non– DSM‐5 Criterion A1 events, bisexual and transgender individuals, intersectional discrimination, geographic location, and interventions that respond to traumatic stress among this group. Additionally, the articles emphasize healing and strength through identity, community, and activism. Our introduction to this special issue concludes by highlighting four specific areas that need further attention to improve understanding of trauma and posttraumatic stress among 2SLGBTQIA+ populations: commitment to epistemic justice, research, intervention development, and training and education.