Interpersonal bonds of homosexuals/bisexuals: the importance of family and social connection during COVID-19 isolation

Abstract

Introduction: Studying interpersonal bonds—both familial and social—among homosexual and bisexual individuals during the COVID-19 isolation is crucial for understanding its impact on mental health, providing emotional support, reducing loneliness, and increasing the resilience of a group that already faces high levels of discrimination and exclusion. Objective: To analyze the family and interpersonal relationships of homosexual and bisexual individuals during the social isolation period of the COVID-19 pandemic. Method: A cross-sectional and analytical study was conducted with 1411 homosexual and bisexual individuals from the five macroregions of Brazil, from June to July 2020. A structured questionnaire with sociodemographic questions, a questionnaire about emotions experienced during COVID-19, and the Friendship Tolerance Assessment instrument were applied. The variables were presented in absolute values and percentages, described descriptively. The chi-square test was used to compare the groups regarding friendship tolerance variables in family relationships and the overall tolerance level. Values of p<0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results: There was no statistically significant difference between the groups regarding friendship relationships; tolerance in the family environment was satisfactory; both groups received help from friends to overcome pandemic-related tensions; and individuals from both groups believe there has been a change in friendship relationships during the pandemic period. Advancing age (p=0.031) contributes to increased tolerance in friendship relationships (p<0.001). However, being bisexual (p=0.021), having a higher education level (p=0.01), having an income between 2 and 4 minimum wages (p<0.001), and experiencing a change in friendship relationships since the beginning of the pandemic (p=0.001) contribute to lower levels of tolerance. Conclusion: Although various factors influence interpersonal relationships in this group, these bonds were essential for overcoming the adversities faced during the pandemic.

Keywords: Sexual and Gender Minorities; COVID-19; Family Relations; Interpersonal Relations; Health Inequality Monitoring.