Religiously infused society exerts immense social pressures that have significant influences on an individual's identity development and self-esteem. These pressures are experienced particularly intensely within marginalised communities such as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (LGBTQ) individuals due to their unique identities which may conflict with dominant cultural norms. The impact of this experience is detrimental to their mental wellbeing, leading to increased anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and suicidal thoughts. This essay examines how religiously infused societal pressure contributes to LGBTQ identity formation, internalized stigma, and mental health outcomes.
In contemporary times, religion has been recognised as one of the most potent forces shaping people's attitudes towards various aspects of human life. Religion provides guidelines for living which inform individuals' values and beliefs. Such guidelines usually form part of the community's moral code and set standards for acceptable behaviour, especially in matters relating to gender and sexuality. In many parts of the world, homosexuality, bisexuality, transsexualism, and nonbinary genders are considered immoral or unnatural. As a result, individuals who identify as LGBTQ often face discrimination and rejection from family, friends, peers, and the larger society. They live under constant fear of being judged, labelled, ostracised, and denied opportunities, creating feelings of loneliness, isolation, and stress.
The stigmatisation of LGBTQ individuals leads to internalised homophobia, whereby they begin to accept the negative stereotypes surrounding them and perceive themselves negatively.
An individual who holds the view that same-sex relationships are immoral may develop a sense of shame and guilt when engaging in such relations. The resulting internalised stigma can lead to depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem, contributing significantly to their mental health issues.
These individuals may experience social isolation and lack support networks, further aggravating their mental wellbeing.
Religiously infused societal pressure also influences identity formation among LGBTQ communities by restricting their ability to explore and express their identities freely. This restriction limits their potential for growth and development, leading to increased psychological distress. It is therefore essential to create safe spaces for LGBTQ individuals to express their identities without fear or judgment. Such measures would enhance their mental wellbeing, enabling them to explore their full potential and contribute positively to society.
Religiously infused societal pressures play a significant role in influencing LGBTQ identity formation, internalised stigma, and mental health outcomes. To mitigate this impact, it is necessary to promote tolerance and inclusivity towards sexual minorities, creating safer spaces for them to express themselves openly. These steps will help foster healthy identity development, reduce internalised stigma and improve mental health outcomes.
How does religiously-infused societal pressure influence identity formation, internalized stigma, and mental health outcomes among LGBTQ populations?
Religious socialization is often seen as a significant factor that impacts an individual's self-identity and perception of the world around them. It can shape their values, belief systems, and expectations for themselves and others. For individuals who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer (LGBTQ), these external influences may complicate the process of forming one's sense of self and belonging within society.