Metaverse Support Groups for LGBTQ+ Youth: An Observational Study on Safety, Self-Expression, and Early Intervention

TL;DR

This observational study demonstrates that metaverse-based support groups for LGBTQ+ youth enhance safety, self-expression, and social confidence, offering a promising virtual space for early intervention and mental health support.

Contribution

It introduces a novel metaverse platform tailored for LGBTQ+ youth, showing significant improvements in social confidence and perceived safety compared to real-world interactions.

Findings

High avatar-gender identity matching (79.2%)

Significant increase in social confidence (p<0.001)

Metaverse rated higher for safety, self-expression, and accessibility

Abstract

This study assessed metaverse-based support groups designed to reduce social isolation and suicide risk among LGBTQ+ youths. Using the Cluster platform, enhanced anonymity, avatar-based self-expression, and accessibility were provided. Key findings showed that 79.2% chose avatars matching their gender identity, reporting high satisfaction (mean: 4.10/5) and low discomfort (mean: 1.79/5). Social confidence significantly improved in virtual spaces compared to real-world interactions (p<0.001), particularly among participants with initially low confidence, averaging an increase of 2.08 points. About half of the first-time participants were 16 or younger, highlighting potential for early intervention. The metaverse scored higher than real-world environments for safety/privacy (3.94/5), self-expression (4.02/5), and accessibility (4.21/5). Additionally, 73.6% reported feeling more accepted virtually. However, some highly confident individuals offline experienced mild adaptation challenges, averaging a confidence decrease of 0.58 points, indicating virtual support complements rather than replaces in-person services. These findings suggest metaverse-based support effectively lowers psychological barriers and provides affirming spaces, potentially reducing severe outcomes such as suicidal ideation. Future studies should focus on integrating virtual support with existing community and clinical frameworks to enhance long-term impacts.