Friday 24 July 08:15
- 09:45
Hall: 18 - Room 15 SA
Chair and Discussant:
Moreno Alexander
Division: Division 6: Clinical and Community Psychology
Disability can affect anyone, including individuals who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning, intersex, asexual, and other sexual orientations and gender expressions (LGBTQIA+). However, people with disabilities are often subject to infantilization and are frequently perceived as asexual. These misconceptions contribute to additional layers of marginalization for those who navigate both LGBTQIA+ and disability identities. At this intersection, challenges are often amplified, and new barriers to inclusion and recognition may arise, leading to heightened stigmatization, exclusion, and limited access to resources and support. Research indicates that LGBTQIA+ individuals report higher rates of disability than their non-LGBTQIA+ counterparts. This symposium aims to deepen understanding of the intersection between sexual orientation, gender identity, and disability. It will also offer psychological and social perspectives to inform inclusive interventions that enhance community participation and foster belonging for LGBTQIA+ individuals with disabilities. The symposium will begin with a literature review focused on the social participation of individuals with disabilities who identify as LGBTQIA+. It will then feature the lived experiences and self-advocacy efforts of visually impaired LGBTQIA+ youth in South Africa, highlighting their fight for recognition and rights. Additionally, findings from a study in the province of Quebec in Canada will be presented, examining the social determinants of health, community inclusion, and technology experiences of adults with disabilities who identify as LGBTQIA+. These cross-cultural and cross-generational insights, from youth to adults, will help illuminate the lived realities of this underserved population. By exploring common themes and challenges, the symposium will foster critical reflection on how to create more inclusive, affirming environments that recognize intersectional identities, build trust, and counter stigma. Ultimately, it seeks to inspire action toward greater equity, visibility, and empowerment for LGBTQIA+ people with disabilities across various contexts.
