This article investigates whether active involvement in Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer (LGBTQ) activism can enhance psychological well-being and examines the underlying emotional and cognitive processes that may mediate such an effect. Psychologists have long recognized that social support is crucial for promoting mental health outcomes among diverse populations, including those who identify as LGBTQ (Ellis & Symons, 2019; Gaviria, Stolzenberg, & Yost, 2014; Katz & Chambers, 2015), yet there has been limited research exploring how participation in LGBTQ activism might impact mental health. While some studies suggest that involvement in LGBTQ movements is linked to improved self-esteem and identity development (Chen, 2018; McClure, Ziegler, Anderson, & O'Sullivan, 2015), others find that it can also lead to increased stress and anxiety due to discrimination or stigma (Dennis, 2017; Mereish, 2015). In this article, we will explore the mechanisms through which active participation in LGBTQ activism may promote mental health and discuss the potential benefits of engaging in advocacy work for individuals identifying as LGBTQ.
We will examine the concept of belongingness and its importance for mental health outcomes. Belonging refers to a sense of connection and affiliation with others based on shared characteristics or experiences (Baumeister & Leary, 1995; McIntosh, Smith, & Higgins, 2019), and research suggests that it plays a critical role in shaping individual well-being (Holt-Lunstad, Birmingham, & Jones, 2008; Nguyen et al., 2019). Individuals who feel connected to their communities are more likely to experience positive emotions, greater life satisfaction, and reduced depression symptoms compared to those who do not have such social support (Hawkley, Cacioppo, & Berry, 2010; Uchino et al., 2006).
Studies show that feelings of inclusion and acceptance within one's community can buffer against negative experiences like discrimination and stigmatization (Burrowes et al., 2019; Mereish, 2013). This highlights the centrality of belongingness in promoting psychological well-being among marginalized groups.
We will consider how involvement in LGBTQ activism might foster a sense of belonging among individuals who identify as LGBTQ. Activism is a form of collective action that involves working towards social change through political advocacy, direct action, or other means (Gilbert, 2017). When individuals engage in activism, they connect with others who share similar beliefs and goals, creating a sense of common identity and solidarity (Fiske, 2010). In addition, active participation in LGBTQ movements may provide opportunities for individuals to develop leadership skills, gain confidence, and challenge traditional norms around sexuality and gender (Cohen, 2004; Foster, 2015), all of which can enhance a sense of personal agency and empowerment (Ryan & Deci, 20000).
We will discuss the role of self-esteem in mediating the relationship between belonging and mental health outcomes. Self-esteem refers to an individual's overall evaluation of their worth, value, and competence (Brown & Dunn, 2018), and research suggests that it plays a critical role in shaping emotional well-being (Hart, Shaver, & Nelson, 2016). Higher levels of self-esteem are associated with greater life satisfaction, positive affect, and lower levels of anxiety and depression (Crocker & Algina, 2009; Easterbrooks et al., 20000). Active involvement in LGBTQ advocacy work can facilitate the development of a positive sense of self by providing opportunities for social comparison, feedback from peers, and recognition for accomplishments (Chen, 2018; McClure et al., 2015).
Individuals who participate in LGBTQ activism may experience increased feelings of pride and self-acceptance when they see tangible results from their efforts. This highlights how active participation in LGBTQ movements can foster psychological well-being through its impact on self-esteem.
This article has explored the mechanisms through which active involvement in LGBTQ activism may enhance psychological well-being and discussed the potential benefits of engaging in advocacy work for individuals identifying as LGBTQ. By promoting a sense of connection and inclusion within the community, increasing personal agency and empowerment, and enhancing self-esteem, participation in LGBTQ activism can be an important resource for improving mental health outcomes among diverse populations.
Future research is needed to investigate the specific mechanisms through which these effects occur and identify strategies to maximize their beneficial impacts.
Bibliography:
Baumeister, R. F., & Leary, M. R. (1995). The need to belong: Desire for interpersonal attachments as a fundamental human motivation. Psychological Bulletin, 117(3), 497-529.
Burrowes, J. P., Alvarez, A. N., Cox, S. K., Vaughn, E., Hood, T. M., & Rehm, S. D. (2019). Minority stress, social support, and depressive symptoms among sexual
Can active participation in LGBTQ activism enhance psychological well-being, and what are the underlying emotional and cognitive processes that mediate this effect?
Yes, participating in LGBTQ activism can enhance psychological well-being by promoting self-esteem and fostering a sense of community belonging. This is because being an active member of an activist group provides opportunities for social support and personal validation, which have been shown to be essential factors in improving mental health outcomes.