Experiences of violence and social exclusion among LGBTQI+ university students in Türkiye: a phenomenological study

Considering the inequalities that LGBTQI+ university students are exposed to in all areas of life, the need to address their experiences of violence and psychosocial problems is becoming increasingly important. This study aims to evaluate the experiences of violence and social exclusion among LGBTQI+ university students in Türkiye.This qualitative study applied a phenomenological approach, and a semi-structured interview guide was used to collect data through in-depth interviews with participants. The COREQ checklist was used in this study. Four main themes emerged from the data analysis, including: Characteristics of violence, Contributing factors, Mental health and resilience, and Impact of violence. It has been determined that LGBTQI+ university students experience violence in almost all areas of society, experience severe stigma, and are negatively affected psychosocially in many ways. It is recommended to raise awareness with programs based on social peace and an empathic approach in order to change the Society’s perspective toward LGBTQI+ university students. Mobile support programs should be created to ensure that LGBTQI+ university students with high mental health needs can access psychological support resources. This study addresses an important gap in the literature by providing qualitative evidence from Türkiye, a context that remains underrepresented in LGBTQI+ health and student wellbeing research. Furthermore, urgent policies need to be developed to ensure that LGBTQI+ university studentshave access to all fundamental rights and live humanely.