There is a significant body of research indicating that individuals who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning, intersex, asexual, non-binary, pansexual, agender, gender fluid, and other related identities can be subject to bullying, harassment, and abuse during their years of formal education. These experiences have been shown to negatively impact individuals' psychological and emotional health in both short-term and long-term ways, including increased rates of anxiety, depression, suicidality, substance abuse, self-harm, and physical illnesses. While there are many factors that may contribute to these outcomes, this paper will focus specifically on how school-based bullying and harassment can affect LGBT adult identity development and relational patterns.
The process of identity formation is a lifelong journey, and it is shaped by a variety of internal and external influences throughout life. For individuals who identify as LGBT, one of the most formative experiences during adolescence is coming out or discovering their sexual orientation or gender identity. This process often involves navigating social stigma, family disapproval, and discrimination, which can lead to feelings of isolation, shame, and low self-esteem. Bullying and harassment at school can exacerbate these challenges, making it more difficult for young people to feel safe and supported as they explore their identities. This can result in a delayed or incomplete identity development process, leading to increased confusion, doubt, and difficulty forming secure attachments with others.
Research has also found that LGBT youth who experience bullying are more likely to engage in risky behaviors such as substance use, early sexual initiation, and other forms of self-destructive behavior. In addition, they may develop negative self-perceptions and low self-esteem, which can persist into adulthood and impact their relationships with partners, friends, and family members. These experiences can also lead to fear of rejection, distrust of others, and a tendency to avoid intimacy altogether. As a result, adults who have experienced bullying in childhood and adolescence may struggle to trust themselves and others, leading to difficulties forming healthy and lasting romantic and platonic connections.
In terms of long-term psychological and emotional consequences, research suggests that LGBT adults who were bullied in school are more likely to suffer from depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other mental health issues throughout their lives. They may also be more prone to experiencing relationship problems, including infidelity, breakups, and unstable commitments. This can make it harder for them to build stable and satisfying relationships, further compounding the isolation and loneliness they may already feel.
The effects of school-based harassment and bullying on LGBT individuals' identity development and relational patterns cannot be underestimated. While there is no single solution or intervention that will prevent all bullying, it is crucial that schools create safe and supportive environments where all students can thrive without fear of discrimination or violence. This includes providing comprehensive anti-bullying policies, training for teachers and staff on how to identify and respond to bullying, and offering resources for students who need additional support. By creating a culture of inclusion and acceptance, we can help ensure that young people feel empowered to explore and express their identities freely, without fear of judgment or retaliation.
What are the long-term psychological and emotional consequences of school-based harassment and bullying for adult LGBT identity development and relational patterns?
The long-term psychological and emotional effects of school-based harassment and bullying can be profound on adult LGBT individuals' identity development and relational patterns. Such experiences may lead to feelings of shame, isolation, and depression, which can negatively impact one's sense of self-worth and confidence. Bullying can also create a distrust of others, affecting their ability to form healthy relationships.