Promoting self-efficacy and self-esteem for multiethnic sexual minority youth: An evidence-informed intervention

Written By INQYR

Craig, S. L., McInroy, L., Austin, A., Smith, M., & Engle, B. (2012). Promoting self-efficacy and self-esteem for multiethnic sexual minority youth: An evidence-informed intervention. Journal of Social Service Research, 38(5), 688–698. https://doi.org/10.1080/01488376.2012.718194

Highlights

Background

Sexual minority youth (SMY) face multiple challenges, including lower levels of self-esteem, which is linked to higher levels of depression and anxiety; yet there is limited research regarding evidence-informed practices for this population.

Study Description

  • This study describes the pilot efforts of Strengths First, the first strengths-based intervention created specifically to promote self-esteem and self-efficacy among multiethnic sexual minority youth

  • An important component of Strengths First was its service delivery structure: the intervention was delivered to youth in various community-based settings that were easily accessible to the youth (i.e., schools, homes, libraries, local restaurants, or coffee shops)

  • A pretest–posttest design was used to gather preliminary data from program participants (n = 162) about the potential effectiveness of the program during a 2-year period that ranged from the inception of the program in June 2008 to September 2010

Key findings

  • Significant increases in self-esteem and self-efficacy were found

  • Gains in self-esteem and self-efficacy did not vary by sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, or gender identity, suggesting the appropriateness of this approach across subgroups of SMY

 
INQYR
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Gay affirmative cognitive behavioral therapy for sexual minority youth: A clinical adaptation
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Strengths-First: An empowering case management model for multiethnic sexual minority youth