A quest for support and belonging: examining relationships between Sexual orientation, loneliness and social support among Dutch youth

Abstract

This study examines how sexual orientation relates to loneliness among Dutch adolescents and whether family and friend support buffer this association. While LGB youth are known to experience elevated mental health risks, research focusing specifically on loneliness, particularly among bisexual youth, remains scarce. This study addresses that gap by exploring subgroup differences and testing the moderating role of social support. Data were drawn from the 2021 Dutch Health Behaviour in School-aged Children (HBSC) study, involving 6,165 youth aged 11–18. Linear regression analyses were used to test associations between sexual orientation, loneliness, family- and friend social support. Results showed that LGB youth, and especially bisexual youth, reported significantly higher levels of loneliness than their heterosexual peers. Neither form of support moderated the relationship between sexual orientation and loneliness, implying that support is beneficial for both LGB and heterosexual youth. Notably, family support was more protective for lesbian/gay youth than for bisexual youth in reducing loneliness. These findings support the Minority Stress Model but suggest limitations in the Stress-Buffering Hypothesis. They highlight the need for both universal and targeted interventions that strengthen social support for all youth, while addressing the specific vulnerabilities of bisexual adolescents. Efforts to enhance family support and create inclusive environments across schools, families, and communities may be key in reducing loneliness and fostering belonging.