Researchers have investigated the ways in which members of the LGBTQ community resist discrimination through their mental processes, including cognitive and emotional strategies. In this essay, I will explore some of the most common approaches used by LGBTQ individuals to cope with prejudice and oppression, as well as evaluate the effectiveness of these tactics in reducing negative experiences.
One of the primary methods that LGBTQ people employ is rationalization. This involves reframing potentially hurtful comments or situations in more positive terms, such as viewing them as humorous or even complimentary.
Someone might say "You're just too flamboyant for your own good" instead of "You are gay", and interpret it as a compliment rather than an insult. Rationalization can also involve identifying flaws within discriminatory belief systems and countering them logically. By doing so, individuals can maintain a sense of self-worth and dignity while challenging preconceived notions about sexual orientation and gender identity.
Another strategy frequently employed is avoidance. When confronted with discrimination or bigotry, many LGBTQ individuals may choose to simply ignore it or withdraw from the situation altogether. This can be an effective tactic if the person has a support system outside of the offending environment and feels able to distance themselves emotionally from the event.
It may not always work, particularly if the individual is subjected to ongoing harassment or violence.
A third strategy that some LGBTQ individuals use is denial. This entails refusing to acknowledge the existence of discrimination or prejudice and focusing solely on positive aspects of their lives. It can help reduce feelings of anxiety and depression, but it may also prevent individuals from addressing larger societal issues related to homophobia and transphobia.
In addition to these cognitive strategies, emotional coping techniques are often used by members of the LGBTQ community to deal with discrimination.
They may turn to humor, such as jokes at the expense of bigoted individuals or situations. They may also seek out social support from friends and family who understand and accept them for who they are, or engage in activism to promote LGBTQ rights and visibility.
Research suggests that these tactics can be helpful in reducing negative experiences associated with discrimination.
They should not replace broader efforts to change societal attitudes and policies towards sexual orientation and gender identity. The most effective approach to combating discrimination is likely to involve both personal resilience and collective action.
LGBTQ individuals may employ a combination of different coping strategies depending on the situation. Some may rely primarily on rationalization, while others might lean more heavily on avoidance or denial. Still, others may find that a mix of all three works best for them.
The effectiveness of each tactic depends on individual circumstances and preferences, as well as the specific nature of the discriminatory encounter.
What are the cognitive and emotional strategies LGBTQ individuals employ to resist discrimination, and how effective are these strategies?
LGBTQ individuals may utilize several cognitive and emotional strategies to cope with discrimination, including denial, repression, and distraction. Denial involves refusing to acknowledge or accept one's sexual orientation or gender identity, which can lead to feelings of shame, guilt, and low self-esteem (Fredrickson & Roberts, 1997).