The Anticipated Impact of LGBTQIA+ Marriage Equality Legislation on Indian Society and Mental Health

Abstract

The present study aimed at understanding the anticipated impact of legalising marriage equality for LGBTQIA+ individuals on societal and mental health outcomes in India. A mixed-methods approach to inquiry was used, with quantitative and qualitative data collected through convenience sampling in an online survey. A total of 5825 individuals from different geographical regions across India participated in the study. The age group of respondents ranged from less than 18 to more than 60 years of age. Quantitative analysis of survey questions revealed that more than 85% of participants agreed that the decriminalisation of homosexuality via Section 377 improved mental health outcomes for LGBTQIA+ people, that legalisation of marriage will improve mental health outcomes in LGBTQIA youth and families, and that legalisation would reduce mental health related distress in youth. Thematic analysis of qualitative data highlighted changes at both individual and social levels. Improvement in mental health difficulties due to reduced stigma and discrimination, and increase in acceptance and freedom of expression, legal safety and equal rights were discussed, with direct implications on improved mental health and an anticipated decrease in anxiety, depression, and death by suicide suggested. This is the first study, in our awareness, from India to incorporate the perspectives of such a large population of individuals in the discourse on LGBTQIA+ supportive legislations and its reciprocal impact on the health of the state, society and individual. The study has implications on legal policy centering LGBTQIA+ couples’ experiences to further mental health outcomes and facilitate changes in attitudes around same sex relationships in India.