Happiness is a complex concept that has been studied and debated for centuries. Traditional theories of happiness often focus on individualistic perspectives and ignore the social and cultural context within which individuals live their lives. These theories assume that all people experience happiness in the same way and do not take into account differences in gender, race, age, socioeconomic status, and other factors.
Recent studies have shown that queer lived experiences are different from those of cisgender heterosexual individuals, and they may face unique challenges when it comes to achieving and maintaining mental well-being. This essay will examine how traditional theories can be re-conceptualized to incorporate queer lived experiences and promote greater understanding of these challenges.
The first theory to consider is Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs, which suggests that humans must fulfill basic needs such as food, shelter, and safety before they can achieve higher levels of happiness. While this theory seems straightforward, it fails to acknowledge the importance of social acceptance and belonging for many queer individuals. Queer individuals may struggle to find acceptance in their families or communities due to homophobia or transphobia, leading to feelings of isolation and depression.
The lack of legal protections for LGBTQ+ individuals in some countries can create additional stressors, making it difficult for them to feel safe and secure. Therefore, a modified version of Maslow's Hierarchy could include belongingness at the base level, acknowledging the need for community support.
Another theory to explore is the Pursuit of Happiness model, which argues that humans are motivated by pleasure and purpose. Queer individuals may not always find satisfaction through pursuing pleasurable activities, particularly if they face discrimination or prejudice based on their sexuality. Instead, they may turn to activism and advocacy to find meaning and purpose in life. This approach recognizes the role of social justice in promoting well-being and highlights the importance of collective action. The Pursuit of Happiness model can also be expanded to include the importance of self-acceptance and authenticity, which can help queer individuals feel more comfortable in their own skin.
The Broaden-and-Build Theory proposes that positive emotions broaden our range of thoughts and actions, leading to greater personal growth and resilience.
This theory does not take into account the impact of negative experiences such as trauma and abuse on mental health outcomes. For queer individuals who have experienced violence or discrimination, positive emotions may be harder to come by, and they may need more targeted interventions to build resilience. A revised Broaden-and-Build Theory could incorporate concepts such as mindfulness and self-compassion to help individuals cope with difficult circumstances.
Traditional theories of happiness and well-being must be re-conceptualized to better understand the unique challenges faced by queer individuals. By acknowledging the importance of social support, activism, and self-acceptance, these theories can provide a framework for understanding how queer lived experiences shape mental health outcomes. With greater awareness and inclusivity, we can create a world where all people can thrive and achieve true happiness.
How can traditional theories of happiness and well-being be re-conceptualized to incorporate queer lived experiences?
One way that traditional theories of happiness and well-being could be re-conceptualized to incorporate queer lived experiences is by acknowledging the intersectional nature of identities and how they impact individual experiences of happiness and well-being.