There has been increasing attention to the impact of religious beliefs on individuals' experience of trauma. Religious trauma is a term used to describe the negative effects of exposure to religious teachings, practices, and/or environments that are experienced as harmful or destructive to an individual's sense of self, identity, or spiritual wellbeing. This type of trauma can occur when one experiences rejection from their faith community due to their gender identity or sexual orientation. Studies have shown that LGBT believers who experience religious trauma may be more likely to suffer mental health problems such as anxiety, depression, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance abuse, suicidal ideation, and attempted suicide compared to LGBT nonbelievers.
Little research has focused on how these experiences shape mental health outcomes across the lifespan.
The current study sought to explore the longitudinal relationship between exposure to religious trauma and mental health outcomes among LGBT believers in the United States. Participants were recruited through online advertisements and social media platforms and completed surveys assessing their exposure to religious trauma, mental health symptoms, and demographic characteristics. Results showed that LGBT believers with higher levels of exposure to religious trauma reported significantly worse mental health outcomes than those with lower levels of exposure. In addition, results revealed that this association was stronger for participants who identified as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, or nonbinary, suggesting that religious trauma may have unique implications for these subgroups. These findings suggest that interventions aimed at reducing the negative impact of religious trauma on mental health outcomes should be tailored to meet the specific needs of LGBT believers.
The current study highlights the important role of religious trauma in shaping mental health outcomes for LGBT believers. It also underscores the need for culturally sensitive interventions that address the unique needs of this population. Future research should continue to explore how religious trauma affects other aspects of wellbeing such as spirituality, physical health, and relationships.
How do experiences of religiously motivated trauma shape mental health outcomes across the lifespan for LGBT believers?
LGBT individuals who have experienced religiously motivated trauma may struggle with their mental health throughout their lives. The experience of being ostracized by their faith community can lead to feelings of shame, isolation, and fear. This can contribute to depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues.