Risk to Resilience (R2R): Examining how identity-related experiences shape sexual and gender minority young adults’ relationships with their body, food, and physical activity

Title: Risk to Resilience (R2R): Examining how identity-related experiences shape sexual and gender minority young adults’ relationships with their body, food, and physical activity

Description: This research seeks to understand how identity-related experiences shape relations with the body, eating, and physical activity across intersections with sexual and gender minority (SGM) adult populations using a multi-method approach. Through a strengths-based approach, this research seeks to shift the narrative from risk to resilience with SGM members by uncovering the complexity of experiences (i.e., stigmatizing and affirmative) involving the body and weight-related behavior, whilst illustrating unique strengths at the individual and community level across social identities. Study findings will provide a roadmap for a national strength-based strategy to address negative body attitude and weight-related behavior disparities in SGM young adults by highlighting areas of support (resilience) and actional areas for improvement (risk) at various sociocultural levels (education, family, government). This will have downstream effects on local practices, such as informing intersectional programs for healthy active living and anti-stigma policies in physical activity spaces and sport.

Specifics:
Study Population:
1. Identify as a sexual and/or gender minority (2SLGBTQQIA+ umbrella)
2. Aged 18-29 years old
3. Reside in Canada
4. Speak English
5. Have access to a technological device and internet to use Zoom

Participant Obligation:
Participation in a virtual 90 minute interview on Zoom and a brief survey before (5-10 minutes) and after this session (5 minutes). A $20 Amazon gift card is offered as compensation for completion of the interview.

To participate in this study, please email the lead researcher, Kheana Barbeau-Julien, at kheana.barbeaujulien@ucalgary.ca and put “R2R study participation” as the subject line.

Location: Online - Calgary

Project lead: Kheana Barbeau-Julien

Study Dates: April 23, 2024 to February 13, 2025