The topic of this article is what psychological effects arise from growing up in a faith community that explicitly discourages LGBTQ expression. Faith communities are places where people come together to worship and practice their beliefs.
These communities often have strict rules and expectations about behavior, including how members express themselves sexually. This can create difficulties for those who identify as LGBTQ. Children raised in these environments may experience feelings of shame, isolation, and confusion as they try to reconcile their own identities with the beliefs of their community. The resulting psychological impacts can be profound and long-lasting.
One common effect is a sense of fear and anxiety around expressing one's true identity.
Someone who feels attracted to members of the same gender but has been taught since childhood that such attraction is wrong might be afraid to reveal it to anyone else, even close friends and family members. This could lead to suppressing emotions and desires, which can cause mental health issues like depression or anxiety. It also means missing out on important social connections, which are vital for personal growth and development.
Another possible outcome is a feeling of alienation from one's peers and family members. If a person grows up surrounded by people who do not accept their sexuality, they may feel alone and misunderstood. They may withdraw into themselves emotionally, leading to loneliness and isolation. They may also develop negative self-perceptions, believing that there is something inherently wrong with them simply because they are different. This can affect their relationships with others and lead to difficulty forming healthy bonds with peers and romantic partners.
Growing up in an environment where LGBTQ expression is discouraged can result in internalized homophobia or transphobia. A person may come to believe that being gay or transgender is sinful or abnormal, which can have lasting effects on how they see themselves and interact with the world. They may become ashamed of their own feelings and behaviors, leading to low self-esteem and poor body image. They may also struggle with shame and guilt when experiencing physical or emotional intimacy with someone of the same sex or gender identity.
All these factors contribute to what psychologists call "minority stress," or the experience of living as a minority within a majority culture. Minority stress has been linked to higher rates of mental health issues such as depression and anxiety, substance use disorders, and even suicide attempts among LGBTQ individuals. It can also make it difficult for those affected to form healthy relationships later in life, as they may fear rejection or judgment from potential partners who do not share their belief system.
Despite these challenges, many people raised in faith communities still find ways to express themselves authentically and build fulfilling lives outside their childhood environments.
The psychological impacts of growing up in a discouraging environment cannot be overstated. Those raised in these communities need supportive spaces where they can explore their identities safely and openly without fear of judgment or reprisal. With appropriate care and understanding, they can overcome the negative effects of their past experiences and lead happy, healthy lives.
What psychological effects arise from growing up in a faith community that implicitly discourages LGBTQ expression?
The child may develop anxiety about their sexuality, which can lead to depression, self-harm, substance abuse, and even suicide attempts. They may also experience feelings of shame and isolation, leading them to hide their true identity and engage in risky behaviors.