Sleep Disturbances Among LGBTQ+ Adolescents Tied to Violence and Family Rejection

Sleep disturbances are a pervasive issue among LGBTQ+ adolescents, with a new study uncovering a strong link between identity-based violence, familial rejection, and sleep troubles. The research, published in the Journal of Adolescence, found that adolescents who experienced more violence and bullying due to their gender expression or identity had difficulty falling asleep. Conversely, those who received more familial warmth and support reported better sleep quality.

Key Takeaways:

• LGBTQ+ adolescents who experienced identity-based violence, such as bullying or harassment, had more trouble falling asleep, with 61.5% of participants reporting sleep disturbances.
• Cisgender sexual minority youth (46.7%) and gender minority youth (53.6%) reported differing rates of sleep disturbances, with the latter experiencing more trouble falling asleep than their cisgender counterparts.
• Youth who experienced familial rejection (57.1%) and absence of a trusted adult at school (45.5%) had more trouble falling asleep.
• LGBTQ+ adolescents who were able to use the restroom that matched their gender identity at school reported less trouble falling asleep (36.4%).
• School and family environments that are safe and affirming could help alleviate sleep disturbances among LGBTQ+ adolescents.

Statistics:

• 61.5% of LGBTQ+ adolescents reported sleep disturbances.
• 46.7% of cisgender sexual minority youth experienced sleep disturbances.
• 53.6% of gender minority youth reported sleep disturbances.
• 57.1% of youth who experienced familial rejection had trouble falling asleep.
• 45.5% of youth without a trusted adult at school had trouble falling asleep.
• 36.4% of LGBTQ+ adolescents who used the restroom that matched their gender identity at school reported less trouble falling asleep.

Sources:

• Journal of Adolescence (2025) DOI: 10.1002/jad.12520
• Wiley (News Release) - Medical News Today (2025)
• NewsRx LLC (2025) - Copyright 2025