On the Links Between Exposure to Traumatic Events in Religious Contexts, Post-Traumatic Stress Symptoms, and a Positive Perception of God's Image Among Jewish Lesbians, Gays and Bisexuals in Israel

• Published in: Journal of homosexuality 2024-10, p.1-21
• Main Authors: Shai, Ofir, Abu-Raiya, Hisham
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 0091-8369; 1540-3602; 1540-3602
• DOI: 10.1080/00918369.2024.2420079

This study constitutes one of the first investigations aiming to examine the association between traumatic experiences within religious settings and symptoms of post-traumatic stress among religious lesbians, gays, and bisexuals. Furthermore, the study tested whether the anticipated positive link between those traumatic experiences and post-traumtic stress is influenced by a positive perception of God's image. The sample consisted of 146 Israeli Jewish lesbians, gays, and bisexuals who professed a belief in God or demonstrated religious inclinations either presently or in the past. They completed self-report measures via an online questionnaire, assessing traumatic experiences within religious settings, post-traumtic stress symptoms, and positive perceptions of God's image. The findings revealed a significant and robust positive connection between traumatic experiences within religious settings and post-traumtic stress. A positive perception of God's image exhibited a negative correlation with post-traumtic stress but did not moderate the relationship traumatic experiences within religious settings and symptoms of post-traumatic stress. These findings highlight the significance of traumatic experiences within religious settings as a distinct potential risk factor of post-traumtic stress among lesbians, gays, and bisexuals and underscore the necessity of enhancing awareness among mental health professionals, religious leaders, and legal entities regarding the detrimental effects of those expereinces.