Sexual and gender minority emerging adults eliciting narratives (SEEN): A feasibility pilot study

Background The transition into adulthood for sexual and gender minority emerging adults (SGM EA) in the United States, along with stressors of stigma experiences, may contribute to the disproportionate mental illness risk, specifically depression, suicidal ideation, anxiety, and substance use compared to their cisgender heterosexual peers. Critical narratives may provide the means as an individual intervention to address these concerns.Methods Using data from a randomized trial (NCT05899218), this pilot study explored the implementation outcomes and feasibility of individual critical narratives (CN) for SGM EA of color through a convergent mixed methods design. Participants completed a survey and interview at baseline and then were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to either the Photo-Novella or Digital story condition. Participants were given 4 wk to create their narrative. They then completed a follow-up survey and interview.Results Participants (N = 15; mean age of 20.70; SD = 1.81) reported that critical narratives were feasible (16.60, SD = 2.46), acceptable (17.26, SD = 3.15), and appropriate (17.47, SD = 2.39). Participants stated in interviews that they enjoyed creating narratives and that this was an activity that they would recommend to others.Discussion Overall, critical narratives as an individual activity are feasible, acceptable, and have potential to impact mental health outcomes for SGM EA of color. Future research should examine the effectiveness of CN in addressing mental health outcomes that impact SGM EA of color.