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Description
Background: The LGBTQIA+ population experiences unique barriers to occupation and well being. Anti-LGBTQ legislation encroaches on inclusive and affirming care affecting occupational access. Limited occupational participation and additional exhaustive adaptive strategies to engage in occupations safely have an emotional cost. This research study explores how food or mealtime occupations such as cooking, eating, and hosting can support LGBTQIA+ well-being. This research was made possible by LGBTQIA+ participants that are experts of their lived experience.
Methods: This mixed methods research used both qualitative and quantitative methods to gather data on the significance of food-based occupations, culture, mental health, and identity in LGBTQIA+ adults. Qualitative data was collected through 8 individual, semi-structured interviews, 35 survey responses, and 7 photo and caption submissions for photo elicitation. Data was analyzed and assessed using Braun and Clarke’s (2019) six steps of thematic analysis.
Results: Several themes and sub-themes emerged through the thematic analysis including joy as a process, community, negotiating identity, the power of memories and meaning-making, food as a means of expression, and symbolism in food.
Conclusions: The findings of this research are encouraged to be used to advocate for the therapeutic use of mealtime occupations in supporting the well-being of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Publication Date
12-2024
Publisher
University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences
Keywords
LGBTQIA+, Food, Cooking, Community, Queer, Occupational participation
Medical Subject Headings
Adult, Mental health, Occupational therapy, Negotiating, Meals, Occupations, Sexual and gender minorities, Symbolism
Disciplines
Community Health and Preventive Medicine | Human and Clinical Nutrition | Occupational Therapy | Public Health Education and Promotion
Recommended Citation
Shevchenko, S., Park, K., & MacDermott, S. (2024, December 1). Cuisine as a Compass: Exploring the Therapeutic Benefits of Community, Cooking, and More within the LGBTQIA+ Population. Poster presented at the Virtual OTD Capstone Symposium, University of St Augustine for Health Sciences. Retrieved from https://soar.usa.edu/otdcapstonesfall2024/49
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Community Health and Preventive Medicine Commons, Human and Clinical Nutrition Commons, Occupational Therapy Commons, Public Health Education and Promotion Commons
Comments
This poster was presented at the OTD Capstone Symposium at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences in December 2024.