Social ostracism is defined as "the rejection from others that occurs when an individual or group is excluded from a social relationship, network, or group." This can happen due to many reasons such as race, religion, politics, appearance, and even sexual orientation. In this article, I will focus on the consequences of social ostracism experienced by lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) personnel in high-risk contexts. These include military settings, prisons, and law enforcement agencies where there is a strict code of conduct regarding sexual behavior.
Consequences of Social Ostracism
Social ostracism has been found to have severe psychological effects on LGBT individuals. They may feel isolated, lonely, depressed, anxious, and experience low self-esteem. They are more likely to suffer from mental health problems like anxiety and depression than their heterosexual counterparts. This is because they often hide their identity or fear retaliation for coming out.
They may face discrimination and harassment which further compounds their mental health issues.
Social ostracism can lead to physical health problems such as heart disease, hypertension, and diabetes. It has also been linked to higher mortality rates among LGBT people who experience it. This is due to its impact on stress levels, sleep patterns, and overall quality of life. LGBT personnel who experience social ostracism may struggle with eating disorders, substance abuse, and risky behaviors such as unprotected sex. They may also engage in self-harming activities like cutting or suicide attempts.
Effects on Work Performance
In workplaces where there is no support for LGBT employees, social ostracism can result in poor performance. They may feel less motivated, demotivated, and less committed to the job. Their productivity may decrease, leading to reduced revenue and profitability for businesses. They may also be less creative and innovative, reducing their ability to solve complex problems. In extreme cases, they may leave their jobs altogether, increasing staff turnover costs.
Impact on Relationships
Social ostracism can affect romantic relationships by making it difficult to find a partner who accepts them for who they are. This can lead to isolation and loneliness, exacerbating existing feelings of alienation and loneliness. It can also make it challenging to form friendships and build networks within the community. As a result, many LGBT individuals face difficulty accessing essential resources like healthcare, housing, and employment.
Social ostracism has significant consequences for LGBT individuals in high-risk contexts. It can negatively impact their mental and physical health, work performance, and relationships. Businesses should create an inclusive environment that supports diversity and acceptance to reduce these negative effects.
Governments should implement policies that protect LGBT rights and prevent discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
What are the consequences of social ostracism for LGBT personnel in high-risk contexts?
The effects of social exclusion on lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) individuals can be profound and long-lasting in high-risk settings like workplaces with hostile environments. The most obvious consequence is an increase in stress and anxiety levels as they navigate through workplace dynamics that may not accommodate their identities or preferences.