There has been an increasing awareness of the importance of recognizing intersectionality in understanding the experiences of marginalized groups such as LGBTQ individuals. Intersectionality refers to the idea that multiple forms of oppression, including racism, sexism, ableism, ageism, and classism, can intersect and compound each other to create unique experiences for individuals who identify as LGBTQ. This is especially true when it comes to the way these identities influence experiences of discrimination, social support, and psychological outcomes. Researchers have found that LGBTQ adults who experience intersections of different forms of oppression tend to face higher levels of discrimination, less access to social support, and worse mental health outcomes than their non-intersected counterparts. In this article, we will explore how these intersections can affect LGBTQ adults' experiences of discrimination, social support, and psychological outcomes.
Discrimination
LGBTQ adults who identify with more than one marginalized identity are more likely to experience discrimination than those who do not.
A study by the National Center for Transgender Equality found that transgender people of color were twice as likely to experience physical violence and harassment compared to white transgender people (Wood, et al., 2015). Similarly, a study by the Williams Institute found that same-sex couples who were both racial minorities reported lower levels of family acceptance than white same-sex couples (Badgett & Schneebaum, 2013). This suggests that intersectional identities may increase the likelihood of experiencing discrimination in various contexts.
Social Support
Intersectional identities can also impact LGBTQ adults' access to social support. LGBTQ adults who identify with multiple marginalized identities may find it harder to connect with peers or mentors who share similar experiences.
A study by the American Psychological Association found that Black lesbian women had fewer close friends and less frequent contact with family members than white lesbian women (Bowleg, et al., 2017). This may be due to a lack of available resources or a sense of isolation from their communities.
Studies have shown that LGBTQ individuals who identify with other forms of marginalization are less likely to receive social support from healthcare providers, which can further exacerbate mental health outcomes.
Psychological Outcomes
Research has demonstrated that intersections of identity can negatively affect psychological outcomes for LGBTQ adults. A study by the National Institutes of Health found that sexual minority Latino men experienced higher rates of depression and anxiety compared to their non-intersected counterparts (Pachankis, et al., 2015). Similarly, a study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that transgender people were more likely to report having attempted suicide than cisgender individuals (CDC, 2016). These findings suggest that intersectional identities can contribute to poorer mental health outcomes for LGBTQ adults.
This article has explored how intersectionality can influence LGBTQ adults' experiences of discrimination, social support, and psychological outcomes. By recognizing these intersections, we can better understand the complex experiences of diverse individuals and develop effective policies and programs to address them. It is essential to continue research in this area to improve the lives of those who experience multiple forms of oppression.
How do intersectional identities influence experiences of discrimination, social support, and psychological outcomes in LGBTQ adults?
Intersectionality refers to the interconnected and overlapping nature of various social identities such as race/ethnicity, gender identity/sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, age, religion, disability, etc. , which can have unique influences on individuals' life experiences and mental health.