In modern society, there are different cultures that have unique beliefs and values when it comes to issues related to gender and sexual orientation. These cultures may impose restrictions on individuals who identify themselves as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, plus (LGBTQ+) due to their sexual preferences. This has led to difficulties for young people belonging to this category since they struggle to cope up with the pressure from their cultural backgrounds while trying to come out about their true identity. Culture is an important aspect of life that influences how people interact with each other. It includes norms, customs, belief systems, traditions, attitudes, values, and rituals. Every culture differs significantly, and therefore, the coping strategies adopted by LGBTQ+ youth differ depending on their cultural backgrounds. The article will explore the various ways in which cultural differences influence coping strategies among LGBTQ+ youth navigating religious expectations and sexual identity.
Cultural Expectations
Cultural expectations play a significant role in shaping how one views sexuality and gender.
Some cultures view homosexuality as a taboo, and this puts LGBTQ+ youth under enormous stress since they fear being judged or persecuted if they disclose their sexual orientation. According to research, individuals who experience stigma because of their sexuality are more likely to adopt maladaptive coping mechanisms such as denial, repression, avoidance, withdrawal, and suppression. These unhealthy methods can lead to anxiety and depression, leading to self-harming behaviors, substance abuse, and suicidal thoughts. In contrast, those who use healthy coping strategies such as seeking support from family and friends, developing positive self-esteem, self-acceptance, and social connectedness are less prone to mental illnesses (Casarez & D'Augelli 15).
Religious Background
Religion plays an essential part in shaping people's lives since it dictates what is morally acceptable and unacceptable. Many religions condemn same-sex relationships, and this has led to a lot of distress for young people struggling with their sexual preferences. Religious background influences how LGBTQ+ youth cope up with the challenges faced by their sexual identity and beliefs. Some religions believe that homosexuality is a sin, and this leads to guilt among LGBTQ+ youth since they feel like outcasts in their faith community. Others accept lesbianism, gay, bisexuality, transgender, queer, plus but require strict adherence to religious principles while practicing them.
Islamic culture allows homosexuals but requires strict conformity to religious norms such as dress code and behavioral restrictions. This puts LGBTQ+ youth under pressure to hide their real identities to avoid persecution or even death sentences in some countries (Van Wyk et al.).
Coping Strategies
Different cultures have different coping mechanisms when dealing with sexual identity issues.
Some cultures tolerate and embrace diversity, while others consider homosexuality as unnatural and evil. In a survey conducted among students in India, it was found that those who come from non-traditional families are more likely to experience discrimination due to their cultural values (Chakraborty & Siddiqi 17). This makes them adopt maladaptive strategies such as substance abuse, depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts. On the other hand, individuals belonging to open-minded communities tend to use healthier methods such as seeking support, acceptance of their true self, developing positive self-esteem, and social connectedness. These coping strategies help them cope up with the challenges related to sexual orientation and gender.
How do cultural differences influence coping strategies among LGBTQ+ youth navigating religious expectations and sexual identity?
Coping strategies are individualized patterns of behavior that individuals employ when dealing with stressful situations. The cultural background of an individual is one of the most important factors that can determine their coping strategy. LGBTQ+ youth often experience significant challenges related to their sexual identity due to societal stigma, which may be more pronounced in some cultures than others.