Researchers Focus on LGBT Mormons

In what may be a first-of-its-kind study, researchers at Utah State University are reaching out to nearly 1,000 LGBT Mormons to learn more about their experience within the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

The 149-question survey is being distributed via gay-positive Mormon groups, as well as networks for those who believe that sexual orientation can be changed, the Associated Press reports. Among other questions, the study asks respondents whether they have suffered violence or teasing within the church community and how they "view God's response" to their sexual orientation.

"The broad goal is to provide a better description of how LGBT people function within the Mormon church," said USU associate professor of psychology Renee Galliher, who leads the study. "You'll see that we're asking them to talk with us about a whole range of experiences both related to and unrelated to their religiosity."

Read the AP story here.