Sexual and Gender Minority Emerging Adults Eliciting Narratives

Critical narrative interventions (CNIs) have not been examined for addressing psychological outcomes (e.g., depression, anxiety, self-esteem, empowerment, psychological well-being) within sexual and gender minority emerging adults (SGM EA) of color; therefore, this pilot study will examine the use of CNIs to impact SGM of color psychological outcomes. Prior literature has shown that CNIs have the potential to increase empowerment, self-efficacy, and social support as a prevention strategy for mental health. The research study is being conducted to see if telling your story through photographs or video can improve the mental health and well-being of emerging adults that identify as a member of a sexual and/or gender minority and a racial and/or ethnic minority. Participants will be asked to complete the following research procedures: 1. take a survey online (about 20-30 minutes), then an interview about everyday experiences as sexual/gender minority of color and your experiences in seeking out mental health services. 2. After the interview, participants will have one month to tell their story, answering two prompts "Tell us a time you have felt seen" and "Tell us a time when you have felt unseen." You will be randomized to one of two formats of telling your story: taking photographs or making two short videos. 1. Photographs: Those that are randomized to the photograph condition will be asked to take 12 photos total telling your story and answering the prompt. 2. Videos: Those that are randomized to the video condition will be asked to create two (1-3 minute) videos telling your story and answering the prompts. 3. At the one-month time frame, participants will be asked to fill out another survey (about 20-30 minutes) and then complete an interview about the photos or videos created.