Abstract This paper explores factors which contribute to happiness among lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) individuals as part of the largest study to date of mental health in the LGBTI community in the Republic of Ireland (LGBTIreland study). This mixed methods study informed by minority stress theory, contained an online survey (n = 2,264) which explored various aspects of mental health and distress, but also the extent and experience of happiness and concomitant factors. The survey included ratings of happiness and life-satisfaction and an open-ended question on LGBTI related happiness. Quantitative findings showed a mean happiness rating of 6.58 out of 10 (11-point scale), which is lower than the general population in Ireland. Those identifying as gay men or lesbian women rated their happiness significantly higher than bisexual, transgender, or intersex participants. There was also an effect for age: teenage LGBTI participants had significantly lower ratings than other age groups. Happiness ratings very highly correlated with life-satisfaction (.88). A multiple linear regression showed happiness was predicted most significantly by self-esteem and being in a relationship. Qualitative findings emphasized the importance of self-acceptance and peer support for happiness. Findings are discussed using the minority stress perspective and cognitive dissonance theory.

中文翻译：

---

在爱尔兰 LGBTI 社区内探索幸福

摘要 本文探讨了促进女同性恋、男同性恋、双性恋、跨性别和双性人 (LGBTI) 幸福感的因素，这是迄今为止爱尔兰共和国 LGBTI 社区心理健康最大研究 (LGBTIreland 研究) 的一部分。这项基于少数压力理论的混合方法研究包含一项在线调查 (n = 2,264)，该调查探讨了心理健康和痛苦的各个方面，以及幸福感和伴随因素的程度和体验。该调查包括幸福感和生活满意度的评级以及关于 LGBTI 相关幸福感的开放式问题。定量调查结果显示，平均幸福指数为 6.58 分（满分 10 分）（11 分制），低于爱尔兰的一般人群。那些被认定为男同性恋或女同性恋的人对他们的幸福感的评价明显高于双性恋、变性人或双性人。年龄也有影响：青少年 LGBTI 参与者的评分明显低于其他年龄组。幸福指数与生活满意度 (.88) 高度相关。多元线性回归表明，自尊和恋爱关系最能预测幸福感。定性研究结果强调了自我接纳和同伴支持对幸福的重要性。使用少数派压力观点和认知失调理论来讨论调查结果。幸福指数与生活满意度 (.88) 高度相关。多元线性回归表明，自尊和恋爱关系最能预测幸福感。定性研究结果强调了自我接纳和同伴支持对幸福的重要性。使用少数派压力观点和认知失调理论来讨论调查结果。幸福指数与生活满意度 (.88) 高度相关。多元线性回归表明，自尊和恋爱关系最能预测幸福感。定性研究结果强调了自我接纳和同伴支持对幸福的重要性。使用少数派压力观点和认知失调理论来讨论调查结果。