LGBTQ individuals are often raised in a culture that is highly critical of homosexuality and may experience difficulty forming their identity due to social pressure.
Some people who identify as LGBTQ also have conservative religious beliefs, which can impact their moral reasoning, self-concept, and coping strategies. This essay will explore how conservative religious upbringing influences these aspects of life for LGBTQ individuals and what factors moderate these effects.
Moral Reasoning
In a study by Dillard et al. (2014), it was found that LGBTQ individuals with conservative religious backgrounds were more likely to hold traditional moral values regarding homosexuality than those without such a background. These individuals also reported higher levels of internalized homophobia and lower levels of positive attitudes towards homosexuality. They attributed these differences to their religious beliefs and experiences growing up in a community where they felt pressured to conform to certain norms. In contrast, individuals without a conservative religious background tended to view homosexuality as morally acceptable and did not feel the need to justify or rationalize their sexual orientation.
Self-Concept
Another factor influenced by conservative religious upbringing is an individual's sense of self. According to Yarhouse et al. (2013), LGBTQ individuals with conservative religious backgrounds tend to report lower self-esteem, self-acceptance, and spiritual wellbeing compared to those without such a background. This may be because they struggle to reconcile their sexual identity with their faith, leading them to feel conflicted and ashamed of who they are.
Some studies suggest that supportive family and friends can buffer these negative effects, allowing individuals to maintain their sense of worth despite societal pressure.
Coping Strategies
Coping strategies are essential for managing challenges related to sexuality and religion. Some individuals may turn to escapism, substance abuse, or self-harm to cope with feelings of rejection and isolation. Others may find solace in online communities or advocacy groups that provide support and resources for LGBTQ individuals of faith.
Many churches now offer affirming ministries that celebrate diversity and accept all people regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. While there is still much work to do regarding acceptance within the church community, progress is being made towards creating safe spaces for LGBTQ individuals to explore their faith and identity without fear of judgment or exclusion.
Conservative religious upbringings have significant impacts on LGBTQ individuals' moral reasoning, self-concept, and coping strategies. Factors like familial support, peer relationships, and community involvement can moderate these effects and help individuals navigate the complexities of their sexuality and faith. It is essential for members of the LGBTQ community and their allies to continue working towards greater understanding and acceptance within religious institutions, as well as promoting inclusivity and diversity in broader society.
How does conservative religious upbringing influence LGBTQ individuals' moral reasoning, self-concept, and coping strategies, and what factors moderate these effects?
The effect of conservative religious upbringing on LGBTQ individuals' moral reasoning, self-concept, and coping strategies can vary depending on individual factors such as age, gender, ethnicity, education level, and family support.