Mediating effect of loneliness on the associations of perceived and internalized sexual stigma with suicide in gay and bisexual men

Background/Purpose: Loneliness is prevalent among gay and bisexual men (GBM). This study evaluated the mediating effect of loneliness on the associations of perceived sexual stigma (PSS) and internalized sexual stigma (ISS) with suicide in 400 GBM. Methods: A moderated mediation model was used to test the mediating effects of loneliness between the associations of PSS from family members and ISS with suicide and the moderating effects of sexual orientation, age, and education level on the mediating effects. Results: The results indicated that both PSS and ISS were positively associated with suicide through the full mediation of loneliness. The association of ISS with loneliness was stronger in older GBM. Conclusion: Intervention programs promoting changes in attitudes toward GBM are warranted to prevent the development of PSS and ISS, loneliness, and suicide in this population.