Sexual Diversity and Violence in Adolescents in Mexico: An Approach from the Mixed Methodology

Abstract

This article examines some data from the National Survey on Sexual and Gender Diversity (INEGI, 2022) in the adolescent population in Mexico. The different types of violence that this group experienced in their childhood and adolescence are identified; the discourses of a group of adolescents who identify themselves as non-heterosexual and who live in the state of Chiapas about family and social rejection, its effects, coping mechanisms, and their aspirations are also analyzed. Some findings indicate that the most common forms of violence are related to the non-acceptance of sexual and gender orientation and/or identity by family, school and work colleagues, as well as society in general, and commonly materialized through physical, verbal, emotional, and psychological violence. The effects include suffering, frustration, fear, and loneliness. The most common coping mechanisms are isolation, confrontation, cross-violence, reporting to authorities, and defending their rights and those of others. It is concluded that society must respect the rights of LGBTIQ+ people, and that all forms of violence must be prevented and eradicated; no one deserves to be stigmatized, marginalized, or discriminated against for their sexual and gender orientation or identity.