Poster 25

[P-25-05] Shame, Silence, and Selfhood: A Systematic Review on the Mental Health of Homosexual Male Adolescents in Asian Cultural Contexts

*Claudya Hadilianti¹, Charlotte Alyssia Jonatan¹, Darien Alfa Cipta^1,2 (1.Department of Medicine, Universitas Pelita Harapan, Tangerang, Banten, Indonesia(Indonesia), 2.Department of Psychiatry, Siloam Hospital Lippo Village, Tangerang, Banten, Indonesia(Indonesia))

Keywords:

Homosexual adolescents,Asian cultural values,Mental health disparities,Internalized stigma,Suicide risk

Background: Homosexual male adolescents in Asia experience elevated mental health risks, shaped by sociocultural expectations around family honor, religious morality, and heteronormative conformity. Silence around sexuality, reinforced by collectivist values, often results in emotional suppression and stigma internalization.Objectives: To review empirical evidence on mental health outcomes, psychosocial risk and protective factors, and cultural mechanisms influencing homosexual male adolescents in Asia.Methods: This review synthesized findings from 11 studies conducted between 2014 and 2024 across China, South Korea, Thailand, Indonesia, India, and Asian diaspora populations. Included studies focused on adolescents aged 12–24, examining depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, and sleep disturbances.Results: Mental health disparities were evident across diverse Asian contexts. Chinese adolescents identifying as sexual minorities reported significantly higher rates of suicidal ideation (up to 36%) and poor sleep quality, often mediated by bullying and family pressure. In South Korea, suicide attempts among homosexual males were significantly associated with substance use and lack of cohabitation with family. Thai transgender youth exhibited elevated risks of depression and sexual risk behaviors tied to social isolation and family rejection. In diaspora populations, guilt and shame linked to cultural identity were major predictors of anxiety and depression. Consistent risk factors included family rejection, school bullying, and legal discrimination. Protective elements included peer support, LGBTQ-affirming school climates, and youth-oriented outreach programs.Discussion: Findings underscore the role of cultural frameworks in shaping mental health vulnerabilities. Concepts like filial piety, religious taboo, and face-saving behaviors reinforce emotional restraint and stigma. Mental health interventions must be culturally tailored, integrating family education, school reform, and community engagement to enhance resilience and reduce disparities for homosexual male adolescents in Asia.