LGBT individuals are often faced with conflicting demands from their religion, family, and society regarding how they should behave in terms of sexual orientation and gender identity. These conflicting demands can lead to feelings of guilt, shame, and confusion. In this essay, I will explore how LGBT people construct an ethical framework to navigate these tensions.
One way that LGBT people construct an ethical framework is through self-reflection and introspection. They may consider what values are most important to them and how those values relate to their sexual orientation and gender identity.
A person who identifies as gay may prioritize their personal happiness and fulfillment over societal expectations that marriage is only between a man and a woman. This person may choose to enter into a same-sex relationship despite societal pressure to conform to heteronormative standards.
Another way that LGBT people construct an ethical framework is through community support. They may turn to support groups or online communities for advice and guidance on navigating these tensions.
A transgender individual may join a support group where members discuss strategies for coming out to friends and family without losing relationships.
A third way that LGBT people construct an ethical framework is through critical thinking about religious teachings. They may examine the historical context of religious texts and traditions to understand how they have been interpreted differently throughout time.
Someone who identifies as bisexual may study the Bible to see how it has been used to justify homophobia while also recognizing passages that celebrate love and compassion.
LGBT individuals must balance competing demands from different sources in order to create an ethical framework that works for them. They must be true to themselves while also being respectful of others' beliefs and values. By doing so, they can live a life that is authentic and fulfilling, even if it goes against social norms.
How do LGBT persons construct ethical frameworks to navigate tensions between religious, familial, and societal expectations?
Most LGBT individuals experience conflicting feelings of loyalty towards their family members, friends, society, and religion due to societal norms that deny them equal rights as heterosexual people, including access to marriage, adoption, healthcare, employment, housing, and other basic human rights.