LGBTQ-Related Individual Differences Predict Emotional Reactions to the Pulse Nightclub Shootings

The authors examined how identity affected members of the LGBTQ+ population’s response to the Pulse nightclub shooting. Results showed that “identity centrality” (i.e., the level of importance an individual places on their own concept of self) was associated with identifying with the victims, which led to greater perceived threat and negative affect. The authors conclude that hate crimes can increase distress in individuals who identify as LGBTQ+ and can lead to an increased sense of devaluation.