Social support can be described as "the perception and actuality that one is cared for, valued, included, loved, esteemed, understood, and supported by others" (Baumeister & Leary, 1995, p.326). It encompasses several forms such as emotional, instrumental, informational, appraisal, and social support, which are all crucial to promoting resilience among LGBT individuals who face marginalization. Emotional support involves providing verbal affirmation and validation, whereas instrumental support entails practical assistance such as financial help. Appraisal support refers to receiving advice and guidance regarding a situation, while informational support includes offering knowledge and information about resources. Social support also includes receiving positive regard from peers and community members.
In terms of resilience, it refers to an individual's ability to cope with stressors effectively and maintain wellbeing despite adversities or challenges. Research suggests that social support enhances resilience through various mechanisms such as buffering stress, increasing self-esteem, and facilitating adaptive coping strategies. When LGBT individuals receive support, they feel less lonely, isolated, and stigmatized, leading to improved mental health outcomes like reduced depression and anxiety symptoms (Kim et al., 2014; McLaughlin & Hatzenbuehler, 2018).
Supportive relationships provide a sense of belongingness and connection, strengthening their sense of identity and reducing the risk of suicide attempts (Wayne, Williams, Fletcher, & Miller, 2014).
Social support can help LGBT individuals develop cognitive and behavioral skills necessary for dealing with discrimination and prejudice.
When they receive emotional support from friends and family, they learn how to regulate negative emotions and process distress more effectively, improving their overall wellbeing (Hill-Wilson, Poteat, & DiBello, 2017). In addition, instrumental support can equip them with practical tools for managing financial difficulties and legal issues related to their sexual orientation (Ryan et al., 2009), enabling them to overcome barriers to accessing resources and opportunities.
Receiving positive regard from peers and community members can bolster their self-esteem and confidence, enhancing their ability to navigate hostile environments and achieve personal goals (Molnar, Buka, & Kegeles, 2006).
Social support plays an essential role in promoting resilience among LGBT individuals facing marginalization by buffering stressors, fostering adaptive coping strategies, and providing practical assistance. As such, fostering a culture of acceptance, inclusivity, and empathy is crucial for supporting these communities and promoting their mental health outcomes.
How does social support enhance resilience among LGBT individuals facing marginalization?
Research has shown that social support can play an important role in enhancing resilience among LGBT individuals who face marginalization. Social support refers to the help and encouragement provided by family members, friends, colleagues, and other community members that can help LGBT individuals cope with challenges and adversities. One study found that social support from family members was particularly important for resilience among LGBT individuals.