Building connections and slaying basilisks: fostering support, resilience, and positive adjustment for sexual and gender minority youth in online fandom communities

Sexual and gender minority youth (SGMY) disproportionately experience risks including discrimination and victimization, as well as psycho-social and behavioral concerns. There remains a relative lack of attention to factors promoting their positive development – particularly via online modalities. Research on their supportive use of technologies in specific contexts is necessary to explain the positive outcomes of contemporary SGMY despite their experiences of excessive risk. This article employs uses and gratifications theory to investigate online fandom communities as a source of social support for SGMY, as well as the potential of these online communities to contribute to their resilience and positive adjustment. A sample (n = 3665) of SGMY aged 14–29 (x¯ = 17.77) was drawn from a mixed methods online survey. Results indicate participation in online fandom communities may increase connectedness, provide opportunities for support and mentorship, facilitate navigation of challenges towards positive adjustment, and encourage feelings of strength. Implications for research and professional practice are emphasized.