Discrimination against lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer people is common
LGBTQ+ people experience various forms of discrimination due to their identities or perceived identities. This type of discrimination often comes from society, family members, employers, friends, acquaintances, and strangers. It may involve verbal abuse, physical assault, social exclusion, job loss, and legal action. Many LGBTQ+ individuals have experienced discrimination that has shaped their coping strategies within intimate partnerships. How do experiences of discrimination shape these coping strategies?
Types of discrimination against LGBTQ+ people
Discrimination can take many different forms.
Heterosexuals may discriminate against LGBTQ+ people based on sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. In heteronormative spaces such as schools, workplaces, and religious institutions, LGBTQ+ people are expected to conform to societal norms for sexuality and gender roles. Homophobic, biphobic, and transphobic prejudices persist in mainstream culture despite significant gains in acceptance.
How discrimination affects intimacy
When people experience discrimination, they may cope by withdrawing from others and avoiding vulnerability. They may fear rejection if they open up about their sexuality or gender identity. Intimate relationships require trust, honesty, and emotional risk-taking. If a partner does not share the same values or beliefs regarding sexuality, it could undermine intimacy.
Strategies for dealing with discrimination
Individuals who have experienced discrimination may choose various coping mechanisms. Some may become more self-reliant, preferring to deal with challenges alone rather than relying on others. Others may seek support through friends, family members, or mental health professionals. Open communication is essential when discussing issues related to sexuality and gender identity within an intimate relationship. It can foster understanding, empathy, and mutual respect.
Long-term effects of discrimination
Discrimination can lead to depression, anxiety, substance abuse, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other mental health conditions. These problems can damage close relationships, leading to isolation, anger, resentment, and mistrust. Discrimination also reinforces negative stereotypes that contribute to stigma against LGBTQ+ people.
Experiencing discrimination can impact how individuals form and maintain intimate partnerships. While some choose to withdraw, others seek support and communicate honestly. By recognizing these patterns, LGBTQ+ couples can work towards healing and greater connection in their relationships.
How do experiences of discrimination shape coping strategies within intimate LGBT partnerships?
The coping mechanisms that individuals use may be influenced by their background and experiences with discrimination. In particular, discriminatory experiences can influence how they feel about themselves and their relationships, leading them to develop negative beliefs about both their identity and relationships. Research suggests that these negative feelings may manifest as distrust, avoidance, anxiety, and self-doubt, which can negatively impact relationship satisfaction and functioning (e. g. , Stone et al. , 2015).