In this essay, I will explore how internalized shame affects the development of queer individuals' identities. Internalized shame is defined as "a feeling that oneself is wrong" (Hooper & Kuyken, 2014), which can stem from a variety of sources such as family dynamics, social norms, cultural beliefs, and individual experiences. It is often experienced as a sense of personal failure or fault, accompanied by feelings of guilt, humiliation, and self-loathing. Queerness refers to a diverse range of non-heterosexual orientations, gender identities, and expressions, and can be understood as a social category created by oppression and marginalization. The intersectionality of these two concepts creates unique challenges for individuals who identify as LGBTQIA+, as they must navigate both internal and external forces shaping their sense of self-worth. This article will examine how internalized shame interacts with societal oppression to shape queer self-concept, drawing on theories from psychology, sociology, and feminism.
It is essential to understand the interplay between internalized shame and societal oppression in shaping queer identity. Societal oppression refers to the systemic disadvantages faced by people who do not conform to heteronormative standards of sexuality and gender. These include institutional discrimination, microaggressions, and homophobia, all of which can lead to feelings of isolation, fear, and vulnerability.
Gay men may experience internalized shame due to societal expectations that masculinity is associated with heterosexuality, while lesbians may struggle with the stigma surrounding female same-sex attraction (Savin-Williams & Cohen, 2018). Transgender individuals face additional layers of oppression based on their gender identity, often encountering rejection and violence in public spaces.
We must consider how internalized shame affects the development of queer identity. Shame can manifest in different ways, including low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, and addiction (Brown, 2016), leading to a lack of confidence, motivation, and social engagement. Queers may also avoid expressing themselves authentically for fear of judgement or rejection. Internalized shame can be especially harmful when reinforced by societal oppression, as it creates a sense of being "othered" and unworthy. This can lead to feelings of loneliness, isolation, and insecurity, further exacerbated by external prejudice.
How does internalized shame interact with societal oppression in shaping queer self-concept?
Queer individuals may feel ashamed of themselves due to various external factors such as discrimination, prejudice, social stigma, and marginalization from society. This internalized shame can be further exacerbated by societal oppression that reinforces negative stereotypes and attitudes towards LGBTQ+ people.