The term "LGBT" stands for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender. It refers to individuals who identify as homosexual, pansexual, nonbinary, genderqueer, agender, bigender, etc., among others. Systemic discrimination against these people has persisted throughout history, especially in medical settings such as hospitals, clinics, and doctor's offices. This type of discrimination can negatively impact LGBT patients' moral self-concept and psychological resilience, leading to harmful effects on their mental health.
I will provide an extensive discussion about how systemic discrimination in healthcare influences the moral self-concept and psychological resilience of LGBT patients.
I shall define systemic discrimination and explain its nature. Then, I will explore the ways it affects the moral self-concept and psychological resilience of LGBT individuals, followed by a summary and conclusion.
What is Systemic Discrimination?
Systemic discrimination occurs when an individual or group is denied access to opportunities based on characteristics that are beyond their control.
LGBT patients may face discrimination due to their sexual orientation or gender identity, which is not a choice but rather a part of their identity. This form of discrimination is often institutionalized, meaning that it is embedded within societal structures and practices. In healthcare, systemic discrimination can take many forms, including denial of care, refusal of services, verbal abuse, physical assault, and more. The consequences of this discrimination can be far-reaching, as it affects every aspect of an individual's life, from work to social interactions.
How Does Systemic Discrimination Affect Moral Self-Concept?
Moral self-concept refers to one's perception of themselves as a moral person. When LGBT patients experience systemic discrimination in healthcare, they may feel like they do not deserve proper medical treatment because they are considered morally inferior. They may develop feelings of guilt, shame, and low self-worth, leading them to question their own worthiness as human beings. These negative emotions can have long-lasting effects, such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Moreover, systemic discrimination can lead to the internalization of negative stereotypes about LGBT people, making them believe that they are less than others and deserving of mistreatment.
How Does Systemic Discrimination Affect Psychological Resilience?
Psychological resilience is the ability to cope with challenges and adversity without developing significant psychopathology.
When LGBT patients face systemic discrimination in healthcare settings, they may become emotionally overwhelmed and unable to cope effectively. This can result in increased levels of distress, anxiety, and even suicidal ideation.
Resilient individuals tend to see setbacks as temporary and manageable rather than permanent, but systemic discrimination can make it difficult for LGBT patients to maintain this mindset. Therefore, the impact on their mental health can be severe and long-term.
Systemic discrimination in healthcare has far-reaching consequences for LGBT patients' moral self-concept and psychological resilience. It can cause emotional harm, including feelings of guilt, shame, and low self-worth, and undermine one's ability to cope effectively with life's challenges. Healthcare providers must prioritize non-discriminatory practices to ensure that all patients receive the care they deserve regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.
How does systemic discrimination in healthcare influence the moral self-concept and psychological resilience of LGBT patients?
Systemic discrimination can have a significant impact on the moral self-concept and psychological resilience of LGBT patients in healthcare settings. Discrimination can lead to feelings of marginalization, social isolation, and reduced access to quality care, which can negatively affect mental health outcomes such as depression, anxiety, and stress (Johns et al. , 2019).