Internalized shame is an experience that can arise from various sources within ourselves, but it also interacts with external forces like oppression to influence how we see ourselves. When someone experiences both internalized shame and external oppression, they may struggle with their sense of identity and feel a lack of acceptance in the world around them. This is particularly true for those who identify as LGBTQ+. Internalized shame is when we internalize negative messages about ourselves from society or others and believe them to be true.
If someone grows up hearing that homosexuality is wrong, they might start to believe that being gay makes them bad or less worthy than straight people. This could lead to feelings of guilt, self-loathing, and low self-esteem. External oppression occurs when individuals face discrimination or marginalization based on their identities. It often involves systemic barriers like employment discrimination, housing insecurity, and legal inequality. Together, these factors create a difficult environment where LGBTQ+ individuals must navigate constant rejection and judgment. As a result, they may struggle to develop a healthy self-concept. They may feel isolated, alone, and ashamed of who they are. The intersection of internalized shame and external oppression can create a cycle of negativity that harms mental health. Individuals may become more likely to engage in risky behaviors like substance abuse or even self-harm due to feeling unworthy or inadequate. These feelings can also cause relationship difficulties, difficulty communicating needs, and challenges with intimacy. Queer people deserve love and support, but it's not always easy to find when there is so much stigma around sexual orientation and gender identity. To combat this, we need to work towards creating a more accepting world where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued for who they are.
This article provides an overview of the complex relationship between internalized shame and external oppression, focusing on how it affects the queer community. By understanding the impact of these forces, we can begin to work towards a society that truly values diversity and individuality.
How does internalized shame interact with external oppression to shape queer self-concept?
Shame is a negative emotion that can be experienced as a response to one's perceived failure to live up to societal expectations of masculinity or femininity. Queer people experience both external and internalized homophobia which leads them to feel ashamed of their identity. External oppression refers to discrimination and prejudice against LGBTQ+ individuals by society.