LGBT youth face unique challenges when it comes to navigating their identities. Unlike many straight peers who have more societal support for traditional gender roles, LGBT individuals must often contend with societal expectations that are less accepting of alternative gender expressions. This can make it difficult to find friends, form romantic relationships, and even access basic necessities such as housing and employment. But what makes matters worse is that these young people also may be struggling with intersecting identities that further complicate their lives.
A transgender person might feel ostracized not just because they identify differently from society's binary view of gender but also because they are a person of color in an environment that discriminates against them based on race. Or an intersex individual may face both physical differences and social stigma around their identity. These factors can all add up to create a sense of isolation and vulnerability that can lead to mental health issues like depression or suicide.
To begin understanding how LGBT youth navigate these complexities, it's important to consider what research has shown about risk factors for discrimination. Studies have found that factors such as poverty, lack of education, living in rural areas, being part of a racial minority group, and having disabilities increase the likelihood of experiencing discrimination in general. When these same factors are combined with LGBT identities, they can intensify the impact of prejudice. In addition, LGBT youth are at higher risk for harassment and violence due to stereotypes about sexual orientation and gender identity. They may experience verbal abuse, bullying, cyberbullying, physical assault, and even hate crimes. And while there are laws in place to protect against discrimination, many LGBT individuals still struggle to find acceptance within families, schools, and communities.
One way LGBT youth cope with this discrimination is by seeking out supportive environments where they can be themselves without fear of judgment. This could include joining online groups or attending meetings of other LGBT people. It might mean finding allies who understand their unique experiences and stand up for them when necessary. They might also seek therapy or counseling to help process their feelings and build resilience.
Some young people choose to come out publicly while others remain closeted for safety reasons. Some may transition socially to align with their true gender identity while others do not. The choices made depend on each individual's personal circumstances and preferences.
Navigating intersections of identity requires courage, self-reflection, and resiliency. While it can be difficult to face discrimination based on multiple factors simultaneously, LGBT youth have shown great strength in overcoming obstacles and living authentically. With continued advocacy and awareness-building efforts, we hope that society will become more accepting of all identities so that every person has the opportunity to thrive.
How do LGBT youth navigate intersections of identity that may intensify vulnerability to discrimination?
LGBTQIA+ youth experience intersectionality at multiple levels that make them more vulnerable to discrimination than their non-LGBT counterparts. Their gender identities, sexual orientations, socioeconomic backgrounds, ethnicities, physical characteristics, religious beliefs, and mental health statuses are factors that determine how they are treated by society and whether they receive adequate support from those around them.