I will explore how internalized stigma can affect the ethical decision-making process and identity formation among LGBT individuals. Stigma is defined as "a negative social label that defines an individual as abnormal, deviant, inferior, or dangerous" 1. This label may be imposed upon LGBT people by themselves, their family members, friends, colleagues, or society. Internalization happens when they start to believe that these labels are true and therefore affect their self-esteem, behavior, and life choices. The term 'internalized stigma' refers to when an individual applies negative stereotypes about themselves to themselves. It has been shown that internalized stigma can lead to depression, anxiety, low self-worth, and a lack of motivation 2, which in turn impacts decision-making processes.
Ethical decision-making involves considering different factors such as morality, legality, safety, fairness, and cost-effectiveness to arrive at a moral course of action. When faced with a decision, internalized stigma can influence the way LGBT individuals evaluate each factor and make a choice.
If someone believes that being gay is immoral, they may choose to hide their sexual orientation from others out of fear of rejection, even if it means compromising their own values. Similarly, if someone feels ashamed of their gender identity, they may avoid situations where they would need to disclose it, even if it leads to missed opportunities or conflicts.
Internalized stigma can also shape identity formation. Many LGBT individuals struggle to find their place in society due to prejudice and discrimination. They may feel like they don't belong anywhere, leading them to adopt certain behaviors or beliefs that fit into existing societal norms. This can result in feelings of isolation, confusion, and loss of identity. Moreover, some people may try to conform to heteronormative expectations by pretending to be straight or cisgendered, losing touch with who they truly are in the process.
Internalized stigma has profound effects on the ethical decision-making process and identity formation among LGBT individuals. It creates barriers that prevent them from living authentically and freely, making it difficult for them to find their place in the world. Addressing this issue requires challenging societal attitudes towards queer identities and creating safe spaces for all individuals to express themselves without judgment. By doing so, we can help foster healthier relationships, communities, and overall wellbeing.
References:
1 Herek, G. M., & Capitanio, J. P. (2005). The internalization of stigma among lesbian, gay, and bisexual adults in the United States. Journal of Health and Social Behavior, 46(3), 296–317.
2 Sharma, M., Dodson, C. K., Kwok, O., & Rao, S. K. (2018). Internalized homophobia and mental health outcomes among lesbian, gay, and bisexual adults in the United States: An updated systematic review. Journal of Homosexuality, 65(4), 4999–519.
In what ways does internalized stigma influence ethical decision-making and identity formation among LGBT individuals?
Internalized homophobia (IH) refers to the process by which lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) people adopt negative beliefs and values about their sexual orientation or gender identity that were imposed upon them from outside sources such as society and family.