Citation

Rothblum ED. J. Gay Lesbian Psychother. 1990; 1(3): 67-87.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1990)

DOI

10.1300/J236v01n03_05

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Despite the research emphasis on depression among women, there has been virtually no focus on depression among lesbians. This article reviews evidence for factors that might place lesbians at increased risk for depression as well as factors that would protect lesbians from depression. Additionally, it discusses the research on suicide attempts, alcoholism, and physical and sexual abuse of lesbians, all disorders related to depression. Homophobia, the coming out process, and the lesbian community are presentee! as issues not faced by heterosexual women. Depression among lesbians who are non-white, not middle class, and not young adults is discussed. Finally, the article jpre- sents evidence for the role of therapists and self-help groups in affecting depression rates among lesbians. © 1990 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.

Language: en