Perceived Stress and Outness: Examining the Coping Mediation Framework Among Chinese LGBTQ+ Community

Abstract

Despite global progress in LGBTQ+ rights, sexual minorities in China face significant societal pressures and legal ambiguities, which remain poorly understood. This study explores the potential mediating role of proactive and preventive coping strategies in the relationship between perceived stress and outness levels among Chinese LGBTQ+ individuals. Survey data from 267 Chinese LGBTQ+ individuals aged 16–42 revealed high levels of perceived stress within this community. Both proactive and preventive coping strategies significantly mediated the negative impact of perceived stress on outness levels. These findings contribute to the understanding of LGBTQ+ community’s perceived stress and outness status in China, highlighting the need for inclusive policies and support systems to improve their mental health and social well-being.