Perceived Community Belonging as a Moderator of the Association Between Sexual Orientation and Health and Well-Being

Abstract

Purpose: This study examines the moderating role of perceived community belonging in the association between sexual orientation and various health and well-being outcomes. Design: A national cross-sectional survey. Setting: Confidential microdata from the 2021 Canadian Community Health Survey. Subjects: Individuals aged 15 and older, with a sample size ranging from 43,000 to 44,100. Measures: Sexual orientation, health and well-being outcomes, and sense of community belonging were all self-reported. Outcomes included self-rated general and mental health, depressive symptoms, and life satisfaction. Analysis: A series of multiple linear regression models. Results: Compared to heterosexual individuals, bisexual individuals reported poorer self-rated general health (b =.402, P