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Religion

What is the Relationship Between Religious Universities and Mental Health for LGBTQ+ Students?

Justin Dyer, a Wheatley Institute Fellow, wrote an article on the intricate relationship between religion and mental health in US universities.

A new study challenges the idea that Christian colleges harm LGBTQ+ students. Researchers compared mental health of LGBTQ+ students at religious and non-religious schools. Surprisingly, less religious students, LGBTQ+ or not, reported better mental health at religious universities. The study suggests religious environment might discourage risky behaviors. However, non-religious LGBTQ+ students at evangelical schools struggled more, highlighting the importance of individual religious engagement. Overall, the findings show a complex relationship and argue against generalizations.

Read the article here.