The Queer Joy Project​

The Queer Joy Project is a research effort to shift the narrative on LGBTQ+ people from disparities and distress to thriving, joy, and resistance. By focusing on how LGBTQ+ people experience empowerment even in times of intense backlash, we can begin to shift the focus to stregnths and thriing among queer and trans folks. This research reflects a recent positive shiift in research on LGBTQ+ people and will support future investment in programs and intervention to build queer strengths globally.​

• What is the Queer Joy Survey? This survey was the first phase of the project and includes online surveys in New Zealand and the United States. The survey closed on February 29.  Stay tuned for updates on results! 
• What have we learned so far? 
  • 565 people participated in our survey (305 in US, 260 inNZ).
  • Particpants overwhelmingly agreed that queer joy is an important part of their individual and community experiences
  • Writing and reflecting about queer joy increased positive affect and feelings of prid
    
  • Positive messaging about LGBTQ+ identities while growing up was most common from peers and friends and much less common from family and religion
• Can I participate? The survey closed on February 29. If you would like to be notified when we are recruiting participants for the next stage of this project, please sign up here.
• When will results be available? Data analysis started in summer 2024 following merging of the US and NZ data. As data and results become available we will share them here and on our social media. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter to stay connected.

Looking for more positive LGBTQ+ research?

Positive gendered body experiences and gender euphoria (Beischel et al.)
Health-promoting strengths for LGBTQ people of color (Hudson & Romanelli)
​The Minority Strengths Model: strengths in community (Perrin et al.)