Resilience theory constructs and psychotherapeutic practices with SGD individuals : a scoping review of psychological research literature

Abstract

This review aimed to investigate the extent and type of literature available on the use of resilience theory in psychotherapeutic practises with sexual and gender-diverse (SGD) individuals. A scoping review was conducted on studies published between 1994 and 2024. Eligible studies focused on the use of resilience theory in psychotherapy practice, counselling, and therapeutic support with SGD individuals. Eleven databases (JSTOR, SAGE Journals, Cochrane Library, Scopus, PubMed, ERIC, PsycINFO, ProQuest, EBSCOhost, Sabinet, and Africawide), and two search platforms (Google Scholar and African Journals Online) produced sixty-two publications. After de-duplication and screening, only seven articles were included in the review, indicating a scarcity of literature on the use of resilience theory as a therapeutic framework for SGD individuals. A thematic analysis of the selected studies yielded four key themes, namely: (1) Shifting focus from individual risk factors to a more holistic view of resilience, (2) SGD Resilience as a dynamic and relational process (3) Reimagining resilience factors: Unconventional expressions of resilience within the SGD community, (4) Affirming SGD identity: Cultural competence and navigating heteronormativity in therapy. This review underscores the scarcity of empirical studies on resilience theory as a therapeutic framework for SGD individuals within local and global psychology. It suggests that researchers and practitioners primarily rely on conceptual frameworks rather than developing and evaluating evidence-based interventions. Despite resilience theory’s recognised potential, progress in its therapeutic application remains underdeveloped. The findings call for further empirical research to inform therapeutic paradigms, influence social policy, and enhance psychotherapeutic care and interventions for SGD and other marginalised populations.