LGBT Myanmar Migrants in Thailand: Unveiling Diverse Forms of Abuse, Healthy and Unhealthy Coping Strategies
5
Issued Date
2024-01-01
Resource Type
ISSN
00918369
eISSN
15403602
Scopus ID
2-s2.0-85209686095
Journal Title
Journal of Homosexuality
Rights Holder(s)
SCOPUS
Bibliographic Citation
Journal of Homosexuality (2024)
Suggested Citation
Hlaing K.H., Hoang Dang T.N., Tangchonlatip K. LGBT Myanmar Migrants in Thailand: Unveiling Diverse Forms of Abuse, Healthy and Unhealthy Coping Strategies. Journal of Homosexuality (2024). doi:10.1080/00918369.2024.2411226 Retrieved from: https://repository.li.mahidol.ac.th/handle/123456789/102185
Title
LGBT Myanmar Migrants in Thailand: Unveiling Diverse Forms of Abuse, Healthy and Unhealthy Coping Strategies
Author(s)
Author's Affiliation
Corresponding Author(s)
Other Contributor(s)
Abstract
This study investigates the challenges faced by LGBT Myanmar migrants in Thailand, including discrimination and abuse due to their gender identity or sexual orientation, and their coping strategies. Through qualitative interviews with 20 self-identified LGBT Myanmar migrants aged over 18 years who experienced discrimination or abuse in Thailand, the findings underscore the presence of a segment within the Myanmar LGBT migrant community in Thailand subject to discrimination and violence across diverse settings, including workplaces, public areas, and even within their homes. Additionally, the research identified healthy coping strategies like self-soothing thoughts, relaxation activities, and seeking support, contrasted with unhealthy coping strategies such as negative self-talk, rumination, and suppressing one’s identity, leading to harmful behaviors and even suicidality. The experiences of severe discrimination and violence among LGBT migrants help this study advocate for policy interventions, such as extending the coverage of the Gender Equality Act to encompass LGBT migrants and implementing mental health support services as a form of secondary prevention. Given the significant contribution of LGBT migrants to various sectors of Thailand’s workforce, these measures are essential. However, the existing legislation concerning gender equality in Thailand inadequately addresses the specific concerns of this demographic group.