Social safeness and insecurity among LGBTQ+ people: a qualitative study in Lithuania

Abstract

Social safeness is a fundamental human need essential to maintaining psychological well-being; however, stigma experienced by LGBTQ+ individuals may compromise their sense of safety. Using reflexive thematic analysis and maximum variation sampling, this qualitative study explored the emotional, cognitive, and behavioural reactions associated with experiences of social safeness and insecurity among LGBTQ+ individuals in Lithuanian society. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with nine LGBTQ+ adults aged 21 to 34. Results revealed the dominant theme of social insecurity in LGBTQ+ individuals’ everyday lives, manifested through hypervigilance, persistent negative emotional states, and avoidance behaviours. Experiences of social safeness were largely confined to affirming ‘safety bubbles’, in which the state of authenticity, manifesting as a freedom of thought and behaviour, and a sense of overall calmness were achieved. The domination of heightened vigilance presents an important consideration for health and social care professionals, as it may constitute an additional psychosocial burden that exacerbates or even explains existing mental health and social difficulties.