Intersectional Identities Influence Coping Strategies, Mental Health, and Social Integration for LGBTQ Youth
LGBTQ youth face challenges navigating their identity due to intersecting factors such as religion, sexuality, and ethnicity. The intersectionality theory posits that these identities are interconnected and interacting systems, creating unique experiences for individuals that influence coping strategies, mental health, and social integration. Religious beliefs can shape attitudes toward homosexuality and gender nonconformity, affecting how LGBTQ youth express themselves publicly. Sexuality may also be influenced by cultural norms and expectations regarding sexual behavior, impacting how they connect with others romantically or sexually. Ethnicity can play a role in the acceptance and rejection of LGBTQ individuals within specific communities, leading to feelings of isolation and marginalization.
Coping strategies can differ based on these identities, from internalizing stigma to seeking support from peers or mentors.
Muslim LGBTQ youth may engage in spiritual practices like prayer while struggling with self-acceptance and reconciling religious teachings. Latino/a LGBTQ youth may use humor and dance to navigate social situations, drawing strength from cultural traditions. Black LGBTQ youth may turn to activism and advocacy to create change. Mental health outcomes vary but include anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and suicidal ideation. Some LGBTQ youth find affirming spaces through organizations or online communities, while others experience greater distress if they lack safe environments. Social integration depends on external factors such as family dynamics, school policies, and community attitudes towards LGBTQ people.
Intersectional identities involving religion, sexuality, and ethnicity influence the coping strategies, mental health, and social integration for LGBTQ youth. Understanding these complexities is vital to creating inclusive and supportive environments that promote well-being for all individuals.
How do intersectional identities involving religion, sexuality, and ethnicity influence coping strategies, mental health, and social integration for LGBTQ youth?
Psychologists suggest that people who identify as members of multiple minority groups experience more stress than those who only identify with one group. In other words, they are more likely to be exposed to discrimination based on their intersecting identities, which can have negative impacts on their mental health (Davis & Stryker, 2016).