Path analysis of the relationship between police experiences and well-being mediated by family support among sexual and gender minorities

Background: Police experiences, such as harassment or mistreatment by law enforcement forces, can be a significant source of stress and affect the well-being of sexual and gender minorities (SGM). Aim: This study examines the relationship between police experiences and well-being among SGM, using family support as a mediator, explained through the ABC-X model. Methods: This descriptive-correlational study draws data from a cross-sectional online survey. This U.S. based study utilized quota sampling, with 921 participants from SGM identity categories: trans non-binary (30.4%), trans binary (45.6%), and cisgender sexual minority persons (24.0%). Results: The path analysis results showed that the model used in the study fit well for measuring the relationships between variables (CFI=.99, TLI=.99, RMSEA= 0.01, SRMR= 0.01). Moreover, family support as a mediating between police experiences and well-being has a positive effect on well-being and mitigates the negative effects of police experiences (p ≤ 0.05). Conclusion: This study highlights the role of family support as a protective factor for the well-being of SGM, especially if they have had negative police experiences. The positive effect of family support can reduce the negative impact of police experiences on well-being, which underscores the importance of fostering supportive family environments.