From silence to support: Predictors of victimisation disclosure among LGBA+ people in the Netherlands

Abstract

Abstract: Introduction: When being victim of a traumatic event, the first step to getting help is disclosure. The socio-ecological model from Bronfenbrenner is applied to comprehensively understand the several predictors on micro, interpersonal, meso and macro level on (in)formal disclosure of victimisation of a traumatic event among LGBA+ people compared to heterosexuals. Theory: Victims often disclose to informal sources rather than to formal sources, counting for both heterosexuals as LGBA+ people. There is a positive association between socio-economic levels, high social support, degree of belonging to a group and progressive norms or values and (in)formal disclosure of victimisation, with a stronger effect for LGBA+ people. Method: Secondary data from the LISS Panel is used. A binary logistic regression was utilised to understand the importance of several predictors on (in)formal disclosure of victimisation in the Netherlands, with a moderation for LGBA+ people. Results: The predictors on micro level showed the most significance. The other predictors on the levels showed limited significant findings. Conclusion and discussion: It is too easy to conclude that the fact of being LGBA+ has an overall stronger effect on (in)formal disclosure of their victimisation. This may be due to limitations of this study, for example the small sample size of the LGBA+ group. However, each level offers distinct and unique insights into the complex dynamics of victimisation disclosure The overall perspective emphasises the interplay and importance of these four levels. Policy advice: There is a need for creating safe and supportive environments to encourage disclosure of victimisation, particularly for LGBA+ people. People prefer informal disclosure, highlighting the importance for formal sources, to foster trust, especially for marginalised groups like LGBA+ people. Policies should promote awareness and education on how to respond to victimisation disclosure. Further research should focus on understanding the barriers faced by LGBA+ victims.