LGBT stands for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender individuals who are subject to discrimination and prejudice due to their non-heterosexual orientation. They have been marginalized since time immemorial and were considered outcasts and pariahs in society.
Things changed when activists began to fight for their rights and recognition. Today they enjoy equal rights like any other human being but still face many problems because of their orientation. Moral invalidation is one such issue that affects them badly. It occurs when someone criticizes another person's moral choices, thus making them feel worthless and inferior. This can be very detrimental to the development of self-worth and ethical agency in LGBT persons.
Repeated moral invalidation has a psychological impact on the development of self-worth in LGBT persons. It creates feelings of low self-esteem and makes them question their identity, which leads to emotional distress. They begin to doubt themselves, their choices, and even their existence. In addition, it can lead to depression, anxiety, stress, and other mental health issues. The continuous criticism of their sexuality and gender expression can make them feel ashamed and isolated, leading to social withdrawal and isolation. When they cannot find support from family and friends, this can become worse and lead to suicidal thoughts or attempts. In extreme cases, it can result in physical harm to oneself or others.
Repeated moral invalidation affects ethical agency by making LGBT persons feel guilty about their choices. They start to believe that they are wrong and bad people who do not deserve respect or acceptance. This can lead to shame and guilt, making them feel responsible for the mistreatment they receive. As a result, they may develop an unhealthy sense of morality wherein they blame themselves instead of accepting society's prejudice against them.
Moral invalidation is a serious issue that needs to be addressed urgently. LGBT persons should be provided with safe spaces where they can express themselves without fear of judgment or rejection. Social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Tiktok have been playing an essential role in creating such spaces.
There is still much work to be done as many individuals still face discrimination and harassment daily. Therefore, we must create awareness campaigns and educate ourselves to avoid any kind of prejudice against LGBT individuals.
Source: Wikipedia
What is the psychological impact of repeated moral invalidation on the development of self-worth and ethical agency in LGBT persons?
Self-worth refers to an individual's perception of their value, worthiness, and competence based on internal characteristics like intelligence, skills, traits, and attributes rather than external ones such as appearance or social status. Ethical agency is the capacity for individuals to make decisions, take action, and have control over their lives according to personal beliefs, values, and principles.