Associations between self-identity, romantic relationship quality, and mental well-being among sexual minorities in China

Identity disturbance has been linked to poorer mental well-being among sexual minority individuals; however, the underlying association remains insufficiently understood. The present study examined whether romantic relationship quality statistically mediated the association between identity disturbance and mental well-being among sexual minority individuals in China. 265 sexual minority adults currently in romantic relationships completed an anonymous online survey assessing identity disturbance, romantic relationship quality, and mental well-being. Pearson correlation and linear regression analyses were conducted, followed by regression-based mediation analysis. Age and gender identity were included as covariates, and indirect effects were tested using nonparametric bootstrapping. Identity disturbance was significantly and negatively associated with both romantic relationship quality and mental well-being. Romantic relationship quality was positively associated with mental well-being. Mediation analyses supported a statistically significant indirect association between identity disturbance and mental well-being through romantic relationship quality. Higher identity disturbance was associated with lower romantic relationship quality and lower mental well-being. These findings suggest that romantic relationship quality is an important relational factor associated with mental well-being among sexual minority individuals in China. The results underscore the potential relevance of integrating identity-focused and relationship-oriented perspectives to promote mental well-being in sexual minority populations.