The representation of LGBTQ+ individuals in media has always been a subject of debate among scholars and activists alike.
It is crucial to acknowledge that these depictions can have significant impacts on the perception and development of identities of LGBTQ+ youth. This article explores how media representations of LGBTQ+ individuals influence the self-esteem, confidence, and sense of belongingness of young people who identify themselves with those communities.
Media portrayals of gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and queer characters create positive images that can help reduce stigma and discrimination towards them.
Shows such as 'Orange Is The New Black' and 'Pose' feature diverse and realistic portrayals of LGBTQ+ people that challenge stereotypes and offer insights into their struggles. This contributes to reducing prejudice against them, allowing for more tolerance and acceptance in society. Secondly, seeing positive media depictions of LGBTQ+ individuals helps promote a healthy self-image for youth. Research suggests that positive role models can inspire identity formation and build resilience by providing an accurate representation of what it means to be LGBTQ+ (McKinney & Malti, 2018). It allows youth to see themselves reflected in popular culture and media, which can lead to increased confidence and pride in their identities.
Positive representations also increase the likelihood of social inclusion among LGBTQ+ youth, thereby promoting a stronger sense of community and belongingness. By normalizing non-heteronormative sexuality and gender expression in mainstream media, young people feel less alone and are empowered to embrace their own identities.
Negative or distorted media representations can have detrimental effects on the psychological wellbeing of LGBTQ+ youth.
Heterosexism and homophobia continue to pervade our society, and this is often reflected in media portrayals. Some examples include oversexualization, stereotypical characterizations, and exclusion from certain narratives. These harmful depictions contribute to internalized stigma and discrimination, leading to lower self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and self-hatred among queer youth (Dittmann et al., 2017). In addition, such images perpetuate harmful stereotypes that further exclude them from broader societal acceptance and support systems. This leads to isolation and loneliness, making it difficult for these youths to find supportive peers or role models.
Media representations of LGBTQ+ individuals play an essential role in shaping how queer youth perceive themselves. Positive depictions promote resilience, confidence, and social inclusion while negative ones reinforce negative attitudes towards them. It is crucial that we actively work to ensure that all forms of representation include diverse and realistic portrayals of LGBTQ+ individuals to improve their mental health outcomes.
How do media representations of LGBTQ+ individuals affect the self-perception and identity development of queer youth?
While research shows that exposure to positive representations of LGBTQ+ people can have a range of benefits for mental health and wellbeing (e. g. , increased self-esteem, reduced depression and anxiety), it is unclear how such representations impact the development of a young individual's sense of self and personal identity.